We all know that waxing is the quickest way to eliminate hair down there. But for many women, putting up with the pain not to mention forking over Rs. 500 at every appointment—just isn’t worth the end result. Luckily for your lady parts, shaving can be just as effective when it comes to tackling hair below the belt. Just follow these simple steps for before, during, and after your shaving routine and you’ll never feel the need to hit up the waxing salon again.
# Pre-ShaveIf you haven’t shaved in a while or perhaps this is your first time, it will be easier on your razor if you trim your pubic hair with scissors first (shoot for a quarter inch long). But whether you’re new to the hair removal game or you shave everyday, soaking your skin before hand is the best way to prevent razor burn along your bikini line. Shaving toward the end of your shower or bath allows hair to soften.
# Choosing RazorAvoid using a razor with too many blades because that can be too harsh on your vulva—especially if you shave daily, says Nazarian. A good rule of thumb: use two different razors, one for your lady parts and a separate one for your legs and underarms. The one for your bikini area should have just two blades for the bikini area.
# Exfoliating While shaving is its own form of exfoliation, dead skin and dirt can build up on the blades of your razor as you shave, which wears them out and increases the chances of nicking. Exfoliating with a soft scrub or cloth is a great way to gently clean the skin before shaving, and will extend the life of your blades.
# Moisturizer Pre-ShaveUsing heavily perfumed shaving creams can irritate your sensitive areas. But they do offer a smooth, easy surface for the razor, as well as prevent over-drying or irritation.
# FrictionWhile shaving against the direction of hair growth gives a closer shave, it can also cause sensitive skin to flare up. Ideally, to avoid tugging on the hair, the razor should follow the direction of hair growth while trying to minimize the number of strokes.