Understanding The Art Of Under Arm Shaving

Under arm shaving is something females have done for decades. Essentially since clothing fashions became less restrictive and more revealing.

And believe it or not, these days many males are at least trimming their under arm hair too. Reasons being that it's just more comfortable and neater looking. And less hair means less trapped bacteria leading to unpleasant odors.

But before you begin shaving your under arms, you should understand there is indeed an art to it. One you should learn if you want to limit the usual irritations after shaving.

So based on the latest research, these are the best suggestions for smooth under arm shaving:

1. Before under arm shaving, trim the really long hairs with scissors or better yet, a hair trimmer. Then these hairs won't clog up or dull the razor and you'll be able to see where you're shaving better.

2. Next, make sure your under arms are clean and especially free of any traces of deodorant.

NOTE:I know you may have heard or read that applying a white stick deodorant to your skin after shaving will help to limit irritations. But think about this - Why then, would there be warnings against doing so right on the deodorant labels?

3. If convenient, take a shower or soak in a bath. The moisture will help open the pores and relax the hairs which will make shaving easier.

Some people like to apply a regular hair conditioner to soften the hairs. This works pretty well, but be sure to thoroughly rinse it off before shaving because the chemicals and perfumes contained in most hair conditioners will irritate your skin even as you're shaving.

4. Then, apply a rich moisturizing lubrication. Whatever you prefer to use, it's a good idea to allow this to sit on your hair and skin for several minutes to get the maximum effect before you start shaving.

5. ALWAYS make sure you have a new blade in your razor.

6. Shaving under arm hair can be a little tricky because of the hollow contours and because the hair grows in different directions. But with practice you'll get used to shaving this area. It can help if you stretch your arm up and place your palm against a flat surface so you'll have a steadiness.

7. Go slowly, trying not to apply too much pressure or repeat strokes while you're shaving as both of these actions will certainly irritate this sensitive skin.

8. After shaving your under arms, thoroughly wash off any remaining lubricant with warm water.

9. Then flush the area with cold water. This will help to close the pores and calm the skin.

10. Pat the under arms dry, making sure not to rub.

The key to avoiding skin irritations and ultimately, ingrown hairs after under arm shaving, is to keep them dry and limit friction. The best results are achieved with a light dusting of talc free powder or corn starch. Wearing loose fitting clothing right after shaving your under arms will also help.

As far as how often to do under arm shaving -

Some say the more you shave, the more you increase your chances of skin irritations, so cut down on the number of times you shave your under arms.

Others say that stubble is the major cause of skin irritations, so you should shave your under arms often.

With time and experience, you'll decide what works best for you.

Now - If you want to understand more about the art of shaving underarms as well other sensitive areas of your body and the tools that will make it even easier, do some research.