How to Shave Pubic Hair in Your Bikini Area (Plus the Best Razors to Use!)

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Get a close shave on your bikini line with this guide
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Getting rid of pubic hair can be tricky, especially since it’s hard to see what you’re doing down there. If you feel most confident when you’re completely shaved, there are a lot of tips and tricks to prevent irritation and get great results. In this article, we’ll teach you all the steps to shave your bikini area completely, as well as how to treat razor bumps and razor burn. Plus, learn if it’s okay to shave your bikini area and some alternative hair removal methods if shaving isn’t for you.

How do you shave your bikini area?

Start by trimming your pubic hair. Then, soften the hair by taking a shower or bath. Exfoliate your pubic area, then apply shaving cream to the entire area you’re shaving. Use a sharp, clean razor to shave in the direction of the hair, using short, slow strokes. Apply a moisturizer when you’re done.

Section 1 of 7:

How to Shave Your Bikini Area

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  1. Make sure your razor is clean and as sharp as possible—a brand new razor is preferable. [1] Using a dull or dirty razor can drag across your skin, leading to problems like ingrown hairs, razor burn, and in severe cases, infection. While using razors with multiple blades will work, some experts recommend using a razor with just one or two blades, as they remove the hair with fewer passes over the skin.
    • If you aren’t using a brand-new razor, be sure to rinse it off first to make sure it isn’t clogged with dead skin or hair.
    • It’s usually better to use a sturdy, reusable razor than a disposable one.
  2. Trimming your bikini line ahead of time can make shaving a lot easier, as it helps prevent skin irritation and keeps your razor from getting clogged as easily. Use electric trimmers or a pair of small bikini scissors to trim the hair to about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Pull the hair toward you and cut it into small sections. It doesn’t have to be even; it just has to be short. [2]
    • If you use an electric trimmer , make sure it doesn’t have rotating heads, as these can pull the hair and cause pain.
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  3. Before shaving, stand in the shower for at least 10 minutes so the warm water softens the hair and skin, making it easier to shave. Use a gentle, physical exfoliant (like a washcloth or exfoliating glove ) to remove dead skin cells and ingrown hairs, allowing for a closer shave. [3]
    • It’s okay to use a chemical exfoliant, as well, but make sure the ingredients are gentle enough to use on sensitive skin. Many experts recommend physical exfoliants instead.
    • If you want to shave but can’t take a shower, take a wet washcloth and leave it on the area for 5-10 minutes.
    • Cosmetologist Dedra Allen says to get the closest shave, “Make sure to exfoliate regularly and trim the hair down prior to shaving.”
  4. Always use shaving cream or gel when shaving your bikini line. Choose a good quality product with moisturizing ingredients (like shea butter or coconut oil) and apply it evenly across the area you intend to shave. If you don’t have shaving cream, a creamy body wash or hair conditioner can work in a pinch. [4]
    • It's best to use unscented shaving cream designed for the bikini area. If you have particularly sensitive skin, test an area before you apply it all over.
  5. Because the skin on the bikini area is very sensitive, it can become irritated very easily. To help prevent this, it’s important to shave with the grain in the direction the hair is growing. In the case of the bikini area, this means shaving down, away from your belly button. [5]
    • When you’re shaving your bikini line between your thighs, shave downward and from the outside in. This means if you’re shaving the left side of your bikini area, shave from left to right.
    • When shaving between your thighs, bend at the waist and raise one leg so you can see where you’re shaving. This will be easier if you have a bench of some sort in your shower. Prop your leg on the shower wall or sink if you need to—just be careful!
  6. Take your time when shaving your bikini area, and use short, even strokes to help prevent irritation. [6] Let the blade do the work; avoid pressing down into your skin. Remember that each pass of the razor removes surface skin, too, so try to make as few passes as possible.
    • It also helps to pull the skin taut so the blade passes over the area more easily.
    • Remember to rinse your razor when it becomes clogged with hair.
  7. When you’re done shaving, gently exfoliate your skin again to help remove dead skin and prevent ingrown hairs. Rinse the area with warm water, then pat the skin dry with a soft towel. Don’t rub the area vigorously, as this may irritate the delicate skin. It’s just been through a lot! [7]
    • A sugar scrub at this point can work wonders. However, if your skin is very sensitive, it may be better to use a more gentle exfoliant.
    • If you notice any stray hairs at this point, grab a pair of tweezers to put the finishing touches on the area. Sometimes, you can spend what seems like hours shaving down there and still miss a few.
    • Remember to clean your razor, too!
  8. To help prevent irritation , hold a cold compress over the freshly-shaved area for about 10 minutes. Then, apply a moisturizer (like a fragrance-free body lotion or a post-shave serum ) to further soothe the skin. [8] Natural anti-inflammatories like tea tree oil also work well.
    • Ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, and vitamin E are good for hydrating the skin.
    • Applying a bit of baby powder or baby lotion can also reduce irritation. Make sure to only apply these products externally.
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Section 2 of 7:

How to Treat Razor Burn & Razor Bumps

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  1. Razor burn is an itchy, red skin irritation that typically occurs right after shaving. It usually only lasts a few hours and will go away on its own. To reduce irritation, apply a cool washcloth or a soothing gel like aloe vera. [9]
    • To prevent razor burn in the first place, shave properly with a clean, sharp razor and shaving cream. Exfoliate before and after shaving, and remember to moisturize your skin.
    • Razor burn is similar to a rash .
  2. Razor bumps are ingrown hairs that usually appear a few days after shaving. They can last a few weeks, but using appropriate skincare products can help reduce irritation. Look for products that contain salicylic or glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin, or opt for a steroid cream to reduce inflammation. [10]
    • Like razor burn, you can prevent razor bumps and ingrown hairs by following the proper shaving technique.
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Section 3 of 7:

Best Shaving Products for Bikini Line

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  1. One of the best razors for the bikini area is the Schick Intuition Sensitive Care Razor . This is an all-in-one product with a built-in blade and removal gel. These razors come with soothing gels like aloe or cocoa butter, eliminating the need for additional shaving cream or gel, and they’re designed to minimize nicks and cuts. [11]
  2. As the name suggests, the Gillette Venus for Pubic Hair and Skin is a razor specifically designed for the pubic area. It comes with an “irritation defense bar” that helps prevent redness and irritation. Some reviewers say it doesn’t get the closest shave, however. [12]
  3. The Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle is a two-in-one razor and bikini trimmer. This razor is waterproof, provides a very close shave, and maneuvers easily around difficult areas. The trimmer side is battery-powered, so the AAA battery will need to be replaced now and then. [13]
  4. The Philips Beauty Bikini Genie comes with four accessories: two click-on trimming combs for different lengths of hair, a mini-shaving head for a bare finish, and a miniature brush to clean the device. This product is often preferred for its versatility, as its features allow you to choose how long or short you want your hair to be. [14]
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Section 4 of 7:

Alternatives to Shaving

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  1. If shaving isn’t for you, waxing is another common way to remove hair from your bikini area. [15] Wax as much or as little hair as you’d like—stick to your bikini line or go for a full Brazilian. Go for a professional wax at a salon, or if you feel confident, try it yourself at home . Just be sure to follow instructions carefully and make sure that the wax isn’t too hot.
    • Allen warns against giving yourself a Brazilian at home because it is “very painful” and “can lead to injuring your genitals.” It’s better to go to a professional salon if you don’t have waxing experience.
    EXPERT TIP

    Dedra Allen

    Cosmetologist
    Dedra Allen is a Cosmetologist and the CEO of Jdoah Beauty Salon in Thomasville, North Carolina. She has over 12 years of experience and specializes in working on short hair, relaxed hair, hair removal, and hair growth. She graduated with a Cosmetology degree from the Cutting Edge Institute.
    Dedra Allen
    Cosmetologist

    Trim your hair before waxing. Make sure not to work out the day of the service to be hygienic. A couple of days before the session, you can exfoliate the skin to get better results.

  2. If you don’t like the hassle of having to shave or wax constantly, laser hair removal may be a good option for you. This procedure is done by a professional in-office; the laser heats up the hair follicle to stop new hair from growing. While this isn’t completely permanent, the hairs that grow back will be fewer and finer. [16]
  3. Sugaring involves mixing sugar, lemon, water, and sometimes honey to create a sticky substance that pulls hair out from the root. [17] This isn’t the best method if you’re looking to remove the hair by yourself, however, as it’s best done by a professional.
  4. Depilatory creams , like Nair, use chemicals to dissolve hair from the skin, leaving behind the root. [18] If you choose to use a depilatory cream , be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully. Because these creams burn the hair, they can also burn the skin. Fully rinse off the cream when you’re done.
  5. An epilator is an electric tool that can pluck out multiple hairs at once. [19] These are a good option if you want to remove your hair at home rather than going to a professional. Exfoliate the area first, then move the epilator in the direction of the hair growth, following the device’s instructions.
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Section 5 of 7:

Is it bad to shave your bikini area?

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  1. Shaving anywhere on your body is your personal decision—what works for one person may not work for someone else. If you want to shave your bikini area, go for it! Don’t let anyone pressure you into thinking you should (or shouldn’t) shave. [20]
    • Remember, though, that the skin on the pubic area is more sensitive than other areas we tend to shave. Shaving could cause ingrown hairs, razor bumps, and other irritation.
Section 6 of 7:

What is a bikini line?

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  1. It includes the lower abdomen, pubic area, perianal area, and the inner thighs. The terms “bikini line” and “bikini area” are often used interchangeably, though sometimes the bikini area refers to the whole area while the bikini line refers to the skin and hair that would peek out of a bikini. [21]
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Section 7 of 7:

Shaving Bikini Area FAQs

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  1. Shaving your pubic hair can lead to itching, ingrown hairs, cuts, dry skin, and rashes. If you have an open wound on your pubic area when you have sex, STDs and bacterial infections are more easily transmitted. It’s also possible to contract dermatitis (an allergic reaction that causes a rash) from using shaving products. [22]
  2. If you cut yourself shaving, apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding, then wash the area with soap and water. Apply a healing ointment like Aquaphor and cover it with a bandage to prevent the cut from getting infected. Stop shaving the area until the wound has completely healed. [23]
  3. First, make sure your razor is as sharp as possible. It’s okay to use a razor with multiple blades, but a brand new, two-blade razor is better, as it allows for a close shave and causes less irritation on your skin. Never dry shave, so lather up with a shaving cream beforehand. When shaving carefully, you should have few to no cuts, razor bumps, or razor burn. [24]
  4. Many dermatologists believe the body grows pubic hair to help defend itself. Hair that grows in the creases of the body, like the pubic area, may help prevent chafing and helps keep foreign entities from entering the body. [25]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    I always shave this part without using any shaving cream/lubricant. Is this bad?
    Community Answer
    Whatever works for you is totally fine, most people just find it easier/more comfortable to use something. It may also limit razor burn, but if you don't have any issues, you don't have to use anything.
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  • Question
    How can I prevent itchiness?
    Community Answer
    You can use aloe vera during or after shaving. It helps with preventing and treating itching and irritation afterwards.
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  • Question
    Do the hairs grow back prickly and irritating?
    Community Answer
    Yes, they do, just like any hair that has been shaved. If this bothers you, you can consider waxing, depilatories, or laser hair removal.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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      Tips

      • You may experience a lot of itchiness as the hair grows back. However, you'll minimize itching if you use slow strokes when shaving and shave with a new clean razor. The itchiness usually disappears after a few shaves.
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      • Aloe vera is a good gel to use for shaving. It also helps to prevent and treat itching and irritation afterwards.
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      • If you're scared to shave your whole bikini area right away, start by shaving your bikini line. As you get used to working down there, you can ease into shaving the whole area.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • If you don't have shaving cream, try using hair conditioner. Apply it generously, and keep applying it as you shave.
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      Warnings

      • Always use shaving gels, soaps, and lotions that you know your skin won't react to. Avoid using a new bath product for the first time in your bikini area.
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      • Never shave skin that is already irritated or is in any way unhealthy.
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      • Don't shave the same spot over and over again! This will often create ingrown hairs which are a pain to deal with.
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      • Do not apply any perfume, body spray, or feminine deodorant spray to the area immediately post-shave. The spray will sting, and it may irritate your skin.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
      2. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
      3. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/do-you-exfoliate-before-or-after-shaving-8621859
      4. ↑ https://www.health.com/condition/sexual-health/best-pubic-hair-removal
      5. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/shaving-query.html
      6. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/razor-bump-remedies
      7. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
      8. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
      9. ↑ https://www.sutterhealth.org/pamf/health/teens/skin-grooming/pubic-hair-removal-shaving
      1. ↑ https://www.today.com/style/how-to-get-rid-of-razor-bumps-t153812
      2. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/beauty/best-bikini-hair-removal-products
      3. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty-products/g4834/best-razors-refillable-disposable/#product-1c121a3a-7edf-4f41-99ec-319d0ce8b8d6
      4. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty-products/g4834/best-razors-refillable-disposable/#product-1c121a3a-7edf-4f41-99ec-319d0ce8b8d6
      5. ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/beauty/best-bikini-hair-removal-products#best-trimmer-philips-beauty-bikini-genie-cordless-trimmer-6
      6. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/shaving-query.html
      7. ↑ https://www.health.com/condition/sexual-health/best-pubic-hair-removal
      8. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-sugaring
      9. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/shaving-query.html
      10. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-to-know-hair-removal-epilator
      11. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/shaving-query.html
      12. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/sideburns.html
      13. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/shaving-query.html
      14. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/askus/cut-myself-while-shaving/
      15. ↑ https://youngwomenshealth.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
      16. ↑ https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/to-shave-or-not-to-shave-an-ob-gyns-guide-to-pubic-hair-care

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before you start shaving, trim your pubic hair to about 1/4 inches long. Once the hair is the right length, take a warm shower or soak in the bathtub to soften the remaining hair. Next, exfoliate the area with a loofah to remove dead skin cells, then apply shaving gel to help the razor slide smoothly across your skin. Always shave in the direction the hair is growing to avoid irritation and ingrown hairs. Shave with long, slow strokes, and use as few passes with the razor as possible. For tips on shaving between your thighs, keep reading!

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      • Jade McQuaide

        Mar 20, 2016

        "Absolutely great article! I loved all the extra-specific tips. I've shaved all my pubic hair my whole life. I ..." more
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