How to Shave Your Bikini Area Without Causing Irritation

Everyone knows that waxing is probably the smoothest way to deal with pubic hair. (Unless you prefer the natural look, which is perfectly fine as well.) The problem is, for many people, putting up with the pain of waxing — not to mention forking over a hefty sum of money at every appointment — just isn't worth the end result. Luckily, if you follow certain practices, shaving can be just as effective when it comes to pubic hair removal.

Here's everything you should know about how to shave your bikini area properly, including how to prep your skin, the best way to moisturize after shaving, and how to avoid (or get rid of) razor bumps.

Don't Skip Pre-Shave Prep

If you haven't shaved in a while or 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). You can also use an electric razor, as many have guards to allow you to trim longer hairs as well as shorter hairs. But whether you're new to the hair removal game or you shave every day, soaking your skin beforehand 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," says Rachel Nazarian, M.D., a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. And softer hair will result in a closer, smoother, less irritating shave.

Invest In the Right Razor

Avoid using a razor with too many blades, because that can be too harsh on your vulva — especially if you shave daily, says Dr. Nazarian. A good rule of thumb: Use two different razors, one for your pubic area and a separate one for your legs and underarms.

For your arms, legs, and basically any other part of the body, you'll want something with more blades that can contour around spots like your knees and ankles. Try the Venus Extra Smooth Sensitive 5-Blade Razor with SkinElixir (Buy It, $10, target.com) with built-in "lubastrips" for added moisture and smooth skin. An electric bikini trimmer is a great choice for your bikini area, as they are designed to trim as close as you want without causing razor burn or nicking your skin.

If you are using a razor, don't wait for it to rust to replace it. "Since blades tend to dull after a few uses, toss them out by the fourth shave — or even earlier if you see a buildup of dirt or dead skin on your razor," says Dr. Nazarian. This is where replaceable razors come in handy.

Make Exfoliating a Priority

The best way to shave your bikini area involves exfoliating to prevent razor bumps from forming in the first place. 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," says Dr. Nazarian. Just make sure to limit exfoliation to once a week, because overdoing it can irritate sensitive skin, particularly in the winter months. (