This article was co-authored by Adebola Dele-Michael, MD, FAAD
and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman
. Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael is a Board Certified Dermatologist and the Owner of Radiant Skin Dermatology and Laser, PLLC in Manhattan, New York. With over 12 years of experience, she specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology, specifically, using lasers and energy devices in treating skin of color.She is an assistant professor of Dermatology at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Manhattan, NYC. Dr. Dele-Michael holds a BS in Biochemistry from Stony Brook University and an MD from The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She completed her Dermatology Residency at Wayne State University School of Medicine, where she was also chief resident.
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Razor bumps can be very painful and irritating, especially if they pop up around your pubic area. These pesky bumps form when the hair grows back into the skin, and can potentially lead to pimples and scarring. [1] X Research source Not to worry! There are plenty of ways to stay comfortable after you shave. We’ve put together plenty of tips, tricks, and preventative measures you can try the next time you grab your razor.
Steps
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A pair of scissors or some electric clippers will do the trick. Don’t immediately start shaving with a disposable razor—the thicker clumps of hair may dull your razor blade. Instead, trim your hair down until it’s about 1 to 3 cm (0.39 to 1.18 in) long. [2] X Research source
- A dull razor can lead to nicks and cuts.
- Never trim your pubic hair with a dull pair of scissors.
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Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, resulting in a closer shave. Gently go over your pubic area with an exfoliating sponge, loofah, or washcloth. Don’t use any harsh exfoliating products. Not enough exfoliation to remove excess layers of skin causes ingrown hairs. Daily exfoliation will prevent razor bumps because the hair will never get a chance to regrow towards the skin and become trapped. [3] X Research source [4] X Research source
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Shaving cream helps guard your skin as you're shaving. Special creams and gels create a “barrier” of sorts, which helps protect your skin. Get a cream made for sensitive skin and try to avoid using regular soap, which can leave your skin dry and irritated.
- Pick up shaving cream or gel from any store that sells razors and other personal grooming tools.
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Pubic hair usually grows downward. Hold your skin taut with one hand and use the other to guide your razor in smooth, downward motions. Go slow so you don't cut yourself. [7] X Research source
- Shaving against the grain of your hair isn’t a good idea, and can leave you with painful razor bumps. [8] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
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This clears away the hair stuck in the blades so you get a close shave. Once all the old hair is gone, shave another section of hair. Continue shaving and rinsing until you’re completely finished up. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
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Leaving shaving cream residue behind can irritate your skin. Then, pour cool water over your skin, which will encourage your pores to close. [10] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source Gently pat the skin so it’s completely dry. [11] X Research source
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Aloe vera gel soothes and moisturizes your skin. Use an alcohol-free aloe vera gel since products with alcohol can sting and irritate your skin. If you don’t have any aloe vera gel, apply a moisturizing body oil or lotion to the area instead. [12] X Research source
- You can also set a cool, damp cloth over your skin once you’re done shaving. This may prevent unwanted irritation, like razor bumps. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
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Hair removal creams may help prevent ingrown hairs. [14] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Follow the instructions on your box or bottle, and spread the cream over your skin. Wait several minutes, and then rinse off the cream completely. [15] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
- Hair removal creams can sting or burn. If you’ve never tried this type of product before, apply a very small amount first and see how your skin reacts.
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A Brazilian wax removes all the hair in your pubic area. [16] X Research source While you won’t get “razor bumps” from this kind of wax, you could still experience ingrown hairs. [17] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source If you’re worried about this, consider booking a professional Brazilian wax at a salon.
- Wait until your hair is between 1 ⁄ 4 to 1 ⁄ 2 in (0.64 to 1.27 cm) long before you schedule a waxing appointment. [18] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- For reference, a Brazilian wax lasts about 3-4 weeks. [19] X Research source
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Laser hair removal is an expensive but permanent solution. With laser hair removal, you don’t have to worry about razor bumps, irritated skin, or any other shaving-related injuries. In fact, this method prevents 80 to 90% of your pubic hair from growing back. Unfortunately, this treatment tends to cost hundreds of dollars, and may not be a good match for your budget. [20] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
- Always schedule an appointment with an experienced, board-certified physician.
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Tips
- Stay away from tight underwear and clothing after you shave, so you don’t chafe or irritate your shaved skin by mistake. [21] X Research sourceThanks
Warnings
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Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/te7545spec
- ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-shave-your-pubic-area-safely
- ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-shave-your-pubic-area-safely
- ↑ https://www.redbookmag.com/beauty/news/a39517/shaving-bikini-line/
- ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/health/advice/a31606/heres-the-deal-with-shaving-down-there/
- ↑ https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/teens/skin-grooming/pubic-hair-removal-shaving
- ↑ https://www.seventeen.com/health/advice/a31606/heres-the-deal-with-shaving-down-there/
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/want-a-smooth-safe-shave-every-time-try-these-10-tips/
- ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-shave-your-pubic-area-safely
- ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-prevent-treat-razor-burn
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/
- ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/remove-unwanted-hair
- ↑ https://www.elle.com/beauty/health-fitness/a25585882/brazilian-wax-guide/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/shaving-vs-waxing-whats-better-for-your-skin/
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/shaving-vs-waxing-whats-better-for-your-skin/
- ↑ https://www.elle.com/beauty/health-fitness/a25585882/brazilian-wax-guide/
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/trimming-pubic-hair
- ↑ https://metro.co.uk/2017/10/27/how-to-deal-with-vacne-7029133/
- ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/how-to-shave-your-pubic-area