Pubic Hair Removal - Shaving Pubic Hair
By Beverly Smith

For pubic hair removal, shaving is most utilized. Whether you're a male or female, get a fresh razor and follow these steps to avoid in-grown hairs and infections which feel itchy and appear as painful bumps.

Sit in a chair with your feet up above your waist and legs spread apart.

Trim your Pubic Hair
To make this process easier, trim the genital area before applying the razor! You'll save blades this way. Electric razors, clippers (with safety guards) or scissors work well. To get a closer cut and avoid unwanted nicks, pull the hair up then trim away.

Soaking
Take a long, warm bath beforehand. This softens coarse pubic hair and makes it easier to shave and style.

Lathering
Apply shaving cream or gel to lather the pubic area. A thin layer of petroleum jelly will help with a closer shave. Soap doesn't make the best lather for pubic shaving. Note that some people may have allergic reactions to certain shaving cream.

Shaving
There are many different ways to style your pubic hair. Think about it before you start and be as creative as you desire. It is recommended to shave the same way the hair grows. Avoid constantly stroking the same area during the shave because this may irritate the skin. Aim for two to three short strokes. Do stretch the skin to reach the difficult hairy spots.

Attention First-Timers! The pubic area is sensitive and may take time to adjust to the razor. Shaving once a week is enough for your first month. Don't worry about a smooth shave the first month.

Exfoliating (Removing dead skin)
It's important to clean your skin after shaving. The best way is with a "loofa sponge" and your normal body soap. Due to sensitivity of this area, rub lightly with the sponge to prevent skin irritation. This will help remove anything that may clog the pores.

Moisturizing
Rinse, dry and moisturize the freshly shaven pubic area. Baby oil and Aloe Vera work well. It's best to avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances and colors, since this may cause irritation. You may also want to use baby powder for comfort.

Hygienic Maintenance
Wash your shaven genitals on a daily basis. This helps remove unwanted oils and sweat. Moisturize and powder the area daily to avoid irritation. If you keep the hair short, you'll avoid stubbles, which causes itching. Try to wear cotton underwear and to stay away from tight fitting cloths pants. The lack of air circulation and friction of tight cloths may lead to in-grown hairs.

A Few Warnings

• For some people, pubic hair is always easy and fun. However, for many other people it presents problems. When the genital hair begins to grow back, itching often occurs. Red bumps and ingrown hair may appear. To relieve the irritation, you can apply cortisone cream. If these symptoms cause you stress or don't go away, see a doctor.

• People who are allergic and react to some shaving creams. This area seems to have heightened sensitivity. Furthermore, if it does react, your natural sweat and the natural abrasion this area receives will most likely make your life miserable (temporarily). Use hypoallergenic shaving creams or consider avoiding shaving all together.

• Some women have noted genital sensitivity during menstruation. If shaving becomes uncomfortable for women during their periods, they should time pubic shaving around their menstruation cycle.

If shaving does irritate your skin, waxing may not cause as much irritation or in-grown hairs.