How to Use Baby Oil to Shave Your Vaginal Area

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Avoid razor burn and irritated skin with these simple methods
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Whether you’re planning to wear a swimsuit or you just want a little cleanup, shaving your vaginal area is the fastest and cheapest way to remove any unwanted pubic hair. If you’ve been shaving for a while, you might have heard about the hydrating properties of baby oil and how it can be used during shaving. In this article, we’ve detailed how you can use baby oil before, during, and after shaving for softer, smoother skin and less irritation.

Things You Should Know

  • Wet your skin with water, then pat it dry and apply a generous amount of baby oil to your pubic area. Let the oil sit for 5 minutes.
  • Use a new, clean razor to shave in the direction your hair grows, rinsing your razor after each swipe. Perform short strokes to prevent irritation.
  • Rinse the area with warm water, then with cold water to prevent razor bumps. Pat your skin dry with a towel, then apply a thin layer of baby oil to moisturize.
Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Before Shaving

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    Warm water helps open up your pores and can lead to a closer shave. Either hop in the shower and stand under the water for a few minutes, or soak a washcloth in warm water and hold it against your vaginal area before you start shaving. [1]
    • If your pubic hair is pretty long, you may want to trim it with scissors before shaving it off. Use caution if you use scissors, and use a handheld mirror to see what you’re doing the whole time.
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    After you wet your skin, pat it dry with a towel and grab the baby oil. Apply a thin layer all over your vaginal area, focusing on the areas where your pubic hair is the thickest. [2]
    • Baby oil helps soften the skin and the hair, which can lead to a smoother shave with less irritation.
    • Look for pure mineral oil or baby oil without any additional ingredients.
    • Try not to get baby oil inside of your vagina, since it can cause irritation. [3]
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    Give the baby oil some time to soak into your skin and hair. [4] Mineral oil (baby oil) is safe for most skin types, since it doesn’t actually penetrate beyond the first layer of skin. [5] If you have sensitive skin and you’ve never used baby oil before, test it on a small patch of skin before putting it on your vaginal area.
    • Baby oil is very soothing, and it can even help reduce inflammation.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

While Shaving

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    While dermatologists recommend using a shaving cream, some people find that baby oil is a great alternative! If you applied some earlier to soften your skin, just leave it on; otherwise, spread a thin layer of baby oil all over your vaginal area. [6]
    • Baby oil may actually be a better choice for sensitive skin. Shaving creams and gels sometimes contain ingredients that can irritate your skin.
    • Keep in mind that baby oil isn’t formulated as a shaving cream or gel. Since it’s an oil, it has the potential to clog your razor faster than a shaving cream would.
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    When you shave your vaginal area, it’s important to set up for success. Get a new razor that you haven’t used before to ensure that it’s sharp. If you use a dull razor, you could cause razor bumps or even ingrown hairs. [7]
    • Experts recommend changing your razor every 5 to 7 shaves, or more if you have sensitive skin.
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    Take a look at your vaginal area and notice which direction the hair is growing (usually, it grows downward). As you shave, use short strokes, and always go in the direction of the hair. This will prevent irritation and can help avoid ingrown hairs. [8]
    • When you get to the underside of your vaginal area, or your vulva lips, you can use a mirror to look at the hair direction. A handheld mirror can also help you see how much hair you have left to shave.
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    Pubic hair can clog up your razor and lead to a bumpy shave. As you keep shaving, rinse your razor with water after each stroke. Your shave will be smoother, and your skin will be much less irritated. [9]
    • Baby oil is slightly stickier than shaving cream, which is why it’s extra important to rinse your razor after each stroke.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

After Shaving

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    Warm water will help rinse off the baby oil and leave your skin feeling clean. Cold water helps close your pores, which can reduce inflammation and prevent razor bumps. [10]
    • Don’t worry, the cold water doesn’t have to be freezing! If it’s anything below lukewarm, it will benefit your skin.
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    Be gentle, as your skin might be slightly irritated. You don’t have to dry your vaginal area all the way—leaving a little bit of moisture can actually help hydrate your skin. [11]
    • If you have sensitive skin, use a microfiber towel instead of a cotton one. They’re a little more gentle, and they can help soothe your skin if you need to.
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    Shaving dries out your skin, and baby oil is a great moisturizer. When your skin is mostly dry (but still slightly damp), smooth on a thin layer of baby oil and rub it into your skin. Let it soak in to hydrate your skin and prevent further irritation. [12]
    • Since baby oil is fragrance-free, it shouldn’t irritate your skin at all.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What else can I use if I don't have baby oil?
    Pila Xian
    Esthetician and Massage Therapist
    Pila Xian is an Esthetician and Massage Therapist based in Aspen, Colorado. Pila owns and operates Heaven on Earth, a day spa that offers personalized facial and massage therapies, as well as a variety of spa services. She draws on traditions from Hawaii, Thailand, Japan, and Western massage to tailor her massages for each client. Pila has a BBA from Marymount University, a Certificate of Massage from Boulder College of Massage Therapy, and has studied in the art of Lomilomi and Ashiatsu, among other modalities. Heaven on Earth has been featured in Vogue, Glossy, Aspen Sojourner, and more.
    Pila Xian
    Esthetician and Massage Therapist
    Expert Answer
    Another good option is a hair conditioner. It provides a smooth surface and helps the razor glide easily, reducing irritation. In a pinch, you could also use a gentle face wash because it has hydrating properties that can soften your hair and make for a comfortable shave. Just make sure whatever you use is mild and fragrance-free to avoid irritation in your sensitive area.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/how-to-shave
      2. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/beauty/skincare/a555481/9-shaving-hacks-for-better-results-legs-bikini-line/
      3. ↑ https://www.rogelcancercenter.org/files/lubricants-moisturizers-counseling-guide.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/beauty/skincare/a555481/9-shaving-hacks-for-better-results-legs-bikini-line/
      5. ↑ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2012.00752.x
      6. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/fashion-beauty/a560490/best-shaving-tips-legs-underarms-arms-summer/
      7. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/trimming-pubic-hair
      8. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/how-to-shave
      9. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/hair/how-to-shave
      1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/want-a-smooth-safe-shave-every-time-try-these-10-tips/
      2. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
      3. ↑ https://uihc.org/health-topics/vulvar-skin-care-guidelines

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