Shave Underarm Hair

Many women choose to shave underarm hair for cosmetic reasons, although some cultural and religious beliefs may affect this traditional grooming practice. Understanding why we shave underarm hair and how to do it correctly to avoid unwanted nicks and razor burns can help you remove your underarm hair the best way for you.

Get a close shave!

Hair removal is a grooming practice that many feel has esthetic and hygienic advantages. Many women feel that their body hair is a masculine trait that subtracts from their femininity. Body hair, depending on ethnicity or hair type, may also be dark and coarse, which affects appearance and self-confidence levels for many people.

Shaving armpit hair became a popular practice in the United States around 1915. Today, most women in the Western world shave their underarm hair. In some cultures, such as the Islamic culture, men and women both remove their underarm hair as part of their religious faith.

Swimmers, body builders, and those involved in erotica often shave underarm hair in addition to full body hair removal. For swimmers, less hair means a quicker stride in the water, while body builders rely on hairless physiques to help show off the definition of their muscles.

When sweat is released through the body's pores, it immediately begins to grow bacteria, should the body remain moist and warm. Underarm hair creates a hospitable environment for bacteria, which in turn creates body odor. To maintain a fresh feel and to prevent unwanted body odor and sweat stains, removing underarm hair is a perfectly acceptable practice.

Prior to shaving any portion of the body, the skin should be prepped to prevent razor burn, bumps, ingrown hairs, and nicks.

Shaving is best performed in the bathtub or shower, when the skin has had at least five minutes of exposure to warm water. Warm water helps open the pores, which will assist in the release of the hair from the follicle. Once skin has been moistened, many people apply a shaving cream or foam to the surface to help lubricate and encourage an even glide. If you'd rather skip the shaving cream or foam, a mild lather bar soap or conditioner will do the trick. Apply soap or foam generously and evenly over the entire area to be shaved.

It's important to always shave in the opposite direction of hair growth to maintain a close and smooth shave. Because underarm hair grows quite unruly on some individuals, you may need to take a good look at your underarm hair and shave in different directions as needed.

Once you've removed all of your underarm hair, pat your armpits dry and wait several minutes prior to applying your anti-perspirant or deodorant to avoid chemical reactions or painful stings on this sensitive area. If you experience razor burn or red bumps, avoid using deodorants or lotions under the arms until the condition improves.

While the choice of a razor is up to the individual's preference, keep in mind electric shavers should never be used in the shower or tub where they will be immersed in water, possibly causing electrocution or shock.

In addition to practicing basic safety precautions, always make sure razors are clean and rust-free prior to using them on the skin. If you opt for disposable razors, replace them after several uses. Those choosing replacement blade varieties should dispose of the blades at the first sign of dullness or wear.

While shaving the underarm hair is a quick and easy practice, maintenance for many people is daily.

If you're seeking a more permanent method of underarm hair removal, you may want to consider electrolysis, waxing, or laser methods. While each of these alternative methods have their advantages, maintenance requirements, and may significantly vary in cost, they are worth seeking out if daily underarm shaving has become too much of a hassle.

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