It has become more common over the years for men to be as attentive as women to grooming and trimming body hair--on the limbs, the chest, the back and in what women succinctly refer to as "the bikini area." Because shaving pubic hair involves sensitive, difficult-to-reach areas of the body, men must take care in selecting a grooming tool and method that will do a quality job of "manscaping" and not cause undue damage or discomfort.
Trimming
Simple trimming--which can be done using scissors or electric trimmers--is cheap and easy to do, lets you avoid the potential embarrassment involved in someone finding your hair-removal gear, and allows you to tailor the length of your pubic hair with precision. This method, however, is messy because you have to do the trimming when the hair is dry, results in asymmetry if done carelessly, and must be repeated frequently, as in every two weeks or so for most men.
Shaving
This is a convenient method because it can be done in the shower and requires no special equipment. Start at the base of the penis and work outward, saving the scrotum for last or, if you recoil at the notion of going that far south, skipping it altogether. The drawbacks: razor burns, rashes, ingrown hairs, itching and the need for almost continual upkeep, with "return visits" required every two to three days. You can use an electric razor or an ordinary one, but if opting for the latter be sure to rinse out the blades after every use.
Depilatories
These hair-dissolving creams cost a more than trimmers or razors but decrease upkeep time. They are pain-free, easy to use and affordable. Their effect lasts longer than shaving and doesn't pose the logistical problems waxing can. They can however, be abrasive, lead to untoward odors, and, in some men, cause allergic reactions.
Waxing
This method is increasingly popular among men and is a good choice for those leaning toward permanent hair removal but not quite sold on the idea. Results are comparatively long-lasting and can be done at home, which offers both privacy and monetary savings. Also, the stubble that appears a couple of days after shaving is not an issue here. But waxing is painful--especially when the scrotum is involved--and when done by a professional, it's expensive. Most proprietors are women, so if you're self-conscious this may not be a good option.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is 100 percent permanent, with only a single visit required to eliminate your pubic hair forever. The downsides: it is expensive, costing anywhere from $25 to $100 an hour and that single visit can take up to 12 hours. In most men it causes some degree of discomfort, but not nearly as much as waxing.
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