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For those of us who prefer to stay hairless below the waist, a Brazilian wax is the obvious solution. It looks like it’s grown up, takes very little time, and leaves your skin smoother than it probably ever has been. However, if you have a low tolerance for pain, the process is nice in theory, but painful in reality. In short: you prefer to do the work yourself!
There is nothing particularly sexy or pleasurable about waxing, but there are some things you can do to make the routine much more bearable. According to dermatologist Dr. Cook-Bolden, there are a number of mistakes we keep making when shaving the pubic area that are actually fairly easy to avoid.
If you’re determined to keep your bikini line and intimate areas smooth and bump-free during the summer, it’s time to start breaking these bad habits:
Leave your razor in the shower
First of all, it is important to know that using a razor to epilate the pubic area is okay, as long as you are gentle and replace the razor as needed. Since using a new one every shave is not practical or cost effective for most, it is imperative that you keep it away from moisture between uses.
” Has aMake sure the blades aren’t corroded, ”says Dr. Cook-Bolden,“ clean the razor blade before and after each use, and don’t leave the razor wet in the shower or on the sink or tub; make sure it is dry after each use!
Wet razors age quickly and will start to rust after just a few uses, so find it on your sink or vanity instead. Your bank account will thank you later!
Shaving too often at the wrong water temperature
On the hottest summer days, nothing better than a cold shower, but it’s absolute torture for the hair follicles. If you plan on shaving in the shower, remember that moisture is the fastest way to soften hair and get rid of it easily. Instead, Dr. Cook-Bolden recommends using your razor in lukewarm water.
“We even recommend this step for men who shave beard hair with warm compresses from a clean washcloth. This is a valuable step for anyone who shaves anywhere! She adds. “Then, lather with a foam, cream or shaving gel specially designed for feminine areas. Bland products (without fragrances, dyes, chemicals, and preservatives) or products that have a very short ingredient list are your best bet.
Also avoid hot temperatures, as they can burn sensitive skin. And although hairs can grow back quickly, it’s best to wait 5-7 days between shaves.
Use scented products in your private space
We are all guilty of using anything in our showers to shave even the most sensitive areas. Be honest: how many times have you used your conditioner below your waist this month?
The harsh truth is that scented hair and skin products only make the irritation or itchiness that we feel a few days after shaving even worse.
“Because this area is so delicate, during the cleaning and shaving process, fluids can often drip onto the more sensitive internal areas, leading to contact dermatitis (intense irritation, swelling and itching). “
Instead, look for shaving gels, foams and creams made specifically for sensitive skin. Alternately, a mild, unscented soap like the Dove Beauty Bar ($ 2, target.com), will also ward off dryness and irritation.
Non-moisturizing aftershave
Even if your skin is very oily during the summer months, it’s still important to stay hydrated below the waistline if you want to avoid irritation and bumps after shaving. If you are shaving this area for the first time, wait a few weeks before using an exfoliating aftershave cleanser. You can also skip this step if your skin is ultra sensitive, but still incorporate a healing moisturizer, such as Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion ($ 4, target.com), after getting out of the shower.
In addition to your everyday body lotion or cream, deodorant has become a popular after-shave option for the bikini area. According to Dr. Cook-Bolden, it’s okay to use it as long as it’s fragrance-free.
“Regular deodorants can contain scents and other harsh and drying ingredients. If you must use deodorant … try a sample size first and do a spot test to see if it reacts to your skin. To do this, apply a small amount of the product to the crease of your arm twice a day for 3 to 5 days. The skin in the crease of your arm is thinner than the surrounding skin and by being in a crease it will more closely mimic your more sensitive skin area, ”she shares.
“If the area becomes red, itchy, or itchy, it could be a sign that the deodorant contains an ingredient that you are allergic to or that is just irritating the skin. If there is no reaction, it is likely that you can tolerate the product.
Ignore the signs of irritation
The itchiness and irritation may not justify an emergency room visit, but ignoring these painful symptoms will only make shaving more uncomfortable in the long run.
If your pubic skin is particularly sensitive, invest in aftershave products made with calming ingredients such as cucumber, oatmeal, and aloe vera, all of which are equally effective.
Dr Bolden-Cook also recommends the more affordable petroleum jelly as a viable aftershave balm.
“If you don’t have these things on hand,” she adds, “a dab of over-the-counter hydrocortisone applied very sparingly and no more than 2-3 days can be extremely helpful if you are feeling terrible. comfortable. However, if you do not see relief quickly, you may need to seek help from a dermatologist or other healthcare professional. “
Additionally, the red bumps can signify a mild allergic reaction to scented products, but if they are filled with pus, an infection can set in.
“To avoid an allergic reaction, throw out that scented shaving cream and buy an unscented cleanser or unscented shaving cream or gel for sensitive skin,” she says.
“Although the act of hair removal itself can cause irritation, when the blade cuts hair, it can cause a cut or surface abrasion. How can we prevent this? Do not press the razor into the skin or slide the razor against the skin while shaving.
Click here to find light body moisturizers that will complement your summer shaving routine.
