Armpit hair can make you sweat, itchy, and quickly become unattractive. This is why more and more men are starting to shave under their arms. If this is your first time shaving, there are some basic guidelines you should consider to get a smooth and perfect shave: use a sharp razor, apply a considerable amount of shaving cream and proceed with the hair removal in the hot shower to soften the hairs.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Prepare the Armpits
Step 1. Trim the hairs
Before shaving, it's a good idea to get rid of long, untidy locks, especially if this is your first time shaving under your armpits. The fastest way is to cut them with a beard trimmer, so that they are 6 mm long. This will make it easier for you to remove everything else.
- Place the precision dial one or two notches above the setting that shortens the hairs the most. This will prevent the blades from pulling the hairs.
- In the absence of this tool, you can also use a sharp pair of scissors. Just be careful not to prick and hurt yourself.
Step 2. Get into the shower
When you're done shortening them, get in the shower, turn on the hot water, and start washing. The warmth of the water will help soften the underarm hair, making it easier to use the razor. Start shaving them as soon as you get out of the shower, when they are still soft, or proceed with the hair removal directly under the water.
- If you can't take a shower, wet your armpits with hot water just before shaving.
- Massage them gently to help open the pores.
Step 3. Get a sharp razor
If it's old, it won't do you much good. So, be sure to use a new one or change the print head. If the blade is sharp, the entire shaving process will be faster and more efficient.
- If it is not sharp or you have used it several times, there is a risk that the hairs will get caught, the skin will be scratched and irritated.
- Buy a multi-blade razor. As it sheds more hair with each stroke, it usually ensures a smoother, closer shave.
Step 4. Apply a generous amount of shaving cream
Whether it's foam or gel, spray a generous amount of it directly on your armpits. Don't be thrifty - the more you use, the better the results.
- The shaving foam and gel prepare the hair follicles for hair removal, allow the razor to glide with less resistance and protect the skin from abrasion.
- Don't hesitate to apply the foam or gel whenever you feel it is necessary, even while shaving.
Part 2 of 2: Get a Clean, Deep Shave
Step 1. Raise one arm above your head
In this position, you will have less difficulty accessing the hair in your armpits, but you will also be able to stretch the skin so that it does not form wrinkles or folds that hinder hair removal. The idea is to make the surface to be shaved as flat and even as possible.
- If you have trouble seeing your underarms, try using a mirror.
- Keep your fingers away from where you pass the razor.
Step 2. Shave in all directions
Move the head along the underarm area, starting from the top. Then, slide it from bottom to top and side to side. Make long, gentle, straight movements, trying to cut as many hairs as possible with each stroke.
- Don't be in a hurry, so take your time to avoid getting bruised and hurt.
- Armpit hair tends to grow in different directions, which means you don't always have to go "by hair" like on the rest of your body.
Step 3. Rinse the shaver regularly
After a few strokes, place the head under the tap or shower water to remove any clumps of hair that get caught in the blades. By keeping the razor clean, you will be sure to cut them instead of tearing or tangling them.
- Do not clean the shaver by hitting it against a hard surface. There is a risk that the blades will be damaged in the long run.
- If clipped hair is obstructing the blades, you may want to remove it with a toothbrush or the corner of a towel.
Step 4. Repeat on the other armpit
When you're done shaving under one arm, move on to the other. Don't be in a hurry and rinse your razor every now and then. Keep shaving until you see the smooth armpit.
Step 5. Rinse with cold water
When you're happy with your shave, wipe or sprinkle some cool water on your armpits. You will get rid of clipped hair and shaving cream residue. At the same time, you can refresh the skin and close the pores. Gently pat dry with a towel.]
- If you shave in the shower, just turn on the cold water for a few moments after rinsing.
- The cold will also reduce any inflammation produced by hot water and the razor.
Step 6. Apply a moisturizer
Dab a small amount of moisturizing lotion on your freshly shaved armpits and massage until it is absorbed. The aftershave balm will give you immediate relief from irritation. Moreover, it will keep the skin soft, smooth and fragrant in the following days.
- Choose a moisturizer specially formulated for the areas most sensitive to shaving.
- You can also apply a mild antiseptic product to prevent bacteria from entering the hair follicles.
- Avoid putting on deodorant right away, or it could make the irritation worse.
Advice
- Make it a habit to shave your armpits regularly (every 2-3 weeks or more frequently, depending on your needs) to prevent hair from growing back and irritating your skin.
- Usually, razors with flexible and swiveling heads allow a quick shave in the most difficult areas, such as the armpits.
- Take care of the razor. Rinse it and dry it thoroughly after using it. Cover it and put it away when you're not using it. This way, it will not only work better, but it will also last longer, saving you additional expenses.
- By wearing loose-fitting or sleeveless shirts, you will allow your freshly shaved armpits to breathe and, as a result, you will not sweat excessively.
Warnings
- Although razors are common personal hygiene tools, they can be dangerous if not used correctly. So, avoid using them with too much pressure and be careful when shaving particularly delicate areas, otherwise you could cut yourself.
- Shaving against the grain can create irritation, pimples and ingrown hairs in people with sensitive skin.
