Hair or no hair? Your bikini line area, your choice. Whether you rock a ’70s-inspired downstairs area or go for a Brazilian, keep it free from irritation and stubborn ingrown hairs with some self-care and hair removal know-how. Paying attention to this sensitive zone helps make it brighter and smoother, so you can rock whatever swimsuit you want. Here’s how.
Don’t Skip the Prep
It's essential to prep your skin before shaving. Soak in a bath or shower for around five minutes to soften your hair follicles and make them easier to cut. If you have long hairs, trim to about a quarter of an inch before using a razor.
Slather on shaving gel or cream. It moisturizes and further softens the area. It also protects your skin and helps the razor slide smoothly, preventing microscopic nicks.
If you’re out of shaving cream, you could also use a few drops of olive oil. Another alternative is using conditioner. However, wash thoroughly and cleanse your razor before letting it dry.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating in between is a good way to prevent dry skin and reduce the ingrown hairs in your bikini line area. It encourages the hairs to grow outward instead of sideways into the skin. Do it at least twice a week, depending on your tolerance level. If you have , use a gentler touch and avoid abrasive, mechanical exfoliants. Instead, use a damp washcloth to get rid of dead skin cells.
Picking the right cleanser is another detail to consider. A like Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash is gentle, moisturizing, and won’t irritate your skin. It’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-approved.
A loofa, scrub, or a good dry brush are all options to clean the area and lessen your chances of having bumps or rashes.
Moisturize and Use SPF
Don’t skip the aftercare. While in the shower, apply shower oil or a light body lotion to hydrate the area and lock moisture in. You could also use products specifically formulated for soothing the bikini line.
Alternatively, applying witch hazel will help keep bumps at bay while tea tree oil can soothe due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, do not apply these to your skin directly, especially if it’s already irritated.
You could also use . Beyond relieving skin conditions and reducing itchiness, its fatty acids and ability to prevent water loss while improving elasticity are more than enough reasons to add it to your personal care list.
If you’re on the way to the beach for vacation or planning to hit the pool, apply sunscreen before spending your day in the sun. Don’t forget to reapply every couple of hours.
Before retiring for the night, slather gel on the area and switch to loose, breathable clothing to give your bikini line area a break (she deserves it!)
Invest in a Good Razor
If you’re planning to shave your bikini line or go for a hairless look, use equipment that can do the job without the nicks and unwanted .
Choosing the right razor involves many factors. Opt for one with five closely spaced blades, which prevents the skin from bulging as you glide over it. These also have built-in moisture strips that immediately soothe the skin. If you can splurge, order a waterproof dual trimmer and razor or a battery-powered electric trimmer.
Always shave with the grain. Keep your razors sanitized, replace old blades frequently, and store them in a clean, dry place away from the bacteria in the shower. If you’re tired of ingrown hairs, razor bumps, and rashes, add these habits to your routine to have a clean, smooth, and bright bikini line area.