When you shave your bikini line, the red bumps that seem to accompany every shaving session can be problematic. Since shaving removes the top layer of your skin, those bumps are typically the cause of irritation and razor burn and occasionally an ingrown hair. Your technique can mean the difference between a smooth, effective shave, and something you'd rather not debut at the beach.
Step 1
Scrub your bikini line before you shave, suggests Allison Vidimos, a staff dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. By using an antibacterial soap, you help to remove the bacteria on your skin and soften the hairs in preparation for shaving. This ensures a clean shave with less irritation. Use antibacterial soap with a loofah for the best results.
Step 2
Apply a warm compress to the skin or take a shower before you shave. Fold a washcloth into quarters, and hold under a warm, running faucet. Squeeze out the excess and apply to your bikini line for five minutes. Or, wait until the end of your shower to shave. Warmth opens the pores and softens the hair for a closer and more comfortable shave.
Step 3
Shave with a new razor and a high quality shave gel. A duller razor may be fine for your legs, but the bikini area is extremely sensitive. A duller razor can create drag, pulling and tearing at hair rather than slicing it cleanly. It could also cause you to go over the same area several times, exacerbating the irritation. Look for a razor with a moisturizing strip to help soothe skin as you shave for less irritation.
Step 4
Move in the direction of the hair growth as you shave. In most cases, this means shaving downward, toward the floor. Shaving against the grain may achieve a closer shave, but it causes the hair to be cut too short, putting you at risk for ingrown hairs and severe irritation and bumps.
Step 5
Rinse with cool water and pat the area dry when you're finished. This eliminates irritation from scrubbing the area dry.
Step 6
Apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to the area, if you still notice red bumps despite your efforts, suggests the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Hydrocortisone temporarily restricts blood vessels so they're less itchy and less noticeable.
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