Here is something that most men have probably taken lightly: underarm grooming. If you are guilty and nodding, I understand. For the longest time, this part of grooming for men has never been under the limelight until social media highlighted its benefits, and of course, some grooming gurus started being generous with tips on how to do it properly.
Underarm Grooming for Men
Men's underarm grooming is gaining popularity, extending beyond pubic hair. Grooming experts suggest that if you are already manscaping, it is a good idea to give your underarms a go as well.
While it may not seem manly for some, it is worth considering. With the abundance of apocrine glands in the underarms, shaving can help control odor and enhance comfort and cleanliness, ultimately promoting confidence and comfort. Now that is a benefit that is hard to pass up!
Tip No. 1: Trim
Before shaving your underarms, it is advisable to trim the hair first to ensure the easiest and most comfortable shave. Trimming can help prevent clogged blades and reduce the likelihood of a messy shower.
Using the King C Gillette Style Master Cordless Stubble Trimmer with the appropriate comb length can help manage natural growth, making the subsequent shave smoother and more comfortable, especially if you're new to shaving or it's been a while.
Tip No. 2: Shower
The best time to shave your underarms is in the shower, as the hot water helps soften your hair, preparing it for a smoother shave.
Using a caring body wash or soap, such as the Plant-Powered Skin Exfoliating Charcoal + Clove Oil Cleansing Bar, can help exfoliate and soften your skin while removing dead skin cells and bacteria to achieve the smoothest shave without razor burn.
Additionally, shaving wet in the shower with the help of shaving gel can reduce the risk of irritation, and the water will help soften your underarm hair, making it easier for the razor to glide over your skin.
Tip No. 3: Razor
To achieve a close and effective shave while minimizing razor burn and irritation, it is important to use a sharp razor with a pivoting head to move with the curves of your underarms. Shave with light, gentle strokes, and rinse the blades often to remove built-up shaving gel, hair, and dead skin. Using a dull blade can lead to infections, ingrown hair, or razor burns, so it is essential to change razor blades often to ensure a closer shave without causing irritation.
Tip No. 4: Aftershave and Moisturizers
After shaving your underarms, it is important to use an unscented shave balm or aftershave to soothe the skin, ensuring the product you are using is not alcohol-based due to the sensitivity of underarm skin. Reapplying shave gel as needed when shaving can help prevent shaving rash, and moisturizing with a lotion like the Refreshing Hand + Body Lotion can lock in moisture and protect the skin, providing nourishment and 48-hour moisture. This step is critical for soothing the skin after shaving and maintaining its health and comfort.
Tip No. 5: Grooming Without Razors
If you experience irritation or ingrown hairs from shaving, there are alternative hair removal methods to consider. Electric razors can reduce the risk of razor bumps and ingrown hair, while waxing provides exfoliation and leaves the skin softer and smoother for about three to six weeks.
Epilators and depilatories offer different approaches to hair removal, and threading, although not ideal for large areas, removes hair at the root and provides longer-lasting results. Laser hair removal is a long-term solution that requires multiple treatments and can vary based on skin tone and hair color.
