A little pubic shaving...

If you decide you want to do a little pubic shaving, whether you're a male or female, grab a fresh razor and pay close attention to the following steps to avoid in-grown hairs and infections, which can appear as itchy or painful bumps.
A good cream, foam, or gel for shaving pubic hair is essential and you should make sure it’s suitable for your skin type. Try out different products to find one that is best for you. Our tiip: use a few drips of shaving oil first and lather properly with brush and shaving soap to moisten and soften the hair. Never use a switchblade razor or a disposable razor. A good-quality safety razor like the double-edge Parker razors will help prevent cuts and soreness.
Electric razors of late offer extremely close shaves, so don't be so quick to discount the finished effect. We like the Body Bare Shaver, Feminine and Ladyfair. The Body Bare, rechargeable or battery operated, intimate area razor is a second-generation, with newly designed rotary- head. Dare to be Bare aficionados will love this hair removal instrument.
Shave as close as a blade without irritation!

• Trim It.

To make this process easier, trim the genital area before applying the razor! You'll save blades this way. Electric razors, clippers (with safety guards) or scissors work well. To get a closer cut and avoid unwanted nicks, pull the hair up then trim away. If the art of pubic shaving is new, you may want to let the hair short for a couple of days. This allows the genitals to become comfortable the transition you are about to make.

• Soak it.

Soak the pubic area in warm to hot water, or lay a warm cloth over the area for about 10 minutes. This softens coarse pubic hair and makes it easier to shave and style.

Lather it.

Use shaving cream or gel to lather the pubic area. A thin layer of petroleum jelly will foster a closer shave. The Dutch "Vergulde Hand" soap makes an excellent lather for pubic shaving. Note that some people may have allergic reactions to certain lathering products.

Shave it.

Now your pubic area is ready to meet the razor. There are many different ways to style your pubes. Think about it before you start and be as creative as you desire. It is recommended to shave the same way the hair grows. However to get a closer shave you may want to also shave in the opposite direction. Some state this causes red bumps and ingrown hairs, but everyone is different. If you feel comfortable, try it. In addition, don't constantly stroke the same area during the shave, this may irritate the skin. Two to three short strokes are ideal. Lastly, stretch the skin to reach the difficult hairy spots.
First-Timers: The pubic area is sensitive and may take time to adjust to the razor. Four to six is common. In addition, slowly acquaint the genitals with shaving. Once a week is plenty for your first month. Don't worry about a smooth shave the first month.

• Exfoliate (remove dead skin)

One thing that people forget that is very important is to clean your skin after shaving. The best way is with a "loofa sponge" and your normal body soap. Due to sensitivity of this area, rub lightly with the sponge to prevent skin irritation. This will help remove anything that might clog the pores.

• Moisturize it.

After the shave is completed rinse, dry and moisturize the freshly shaven pubic area. Baby oil and aloe Vera are two suggestions. It's best to avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances and colors, since this may cause irritation. In addition, you may want to powder the area afterwards for comfort. Don't use products that include talcum, it causes irritation.

• Upkeep It.

Wash shaven genitals on a daily basis. This helps remove unwanted oils and sweat. In addition, you may wish to moisturize and powder the area daily to avoid irritation. If you keep the hair short, you'll avoid stubbles, which causes itching. Try to wear cotton underwear and to stay away from tight fitting cloths pants. The lack of air circulation and friction of tight cloths may lead to in-grown hairs.

Downsides of removing the pubic hair

For some people, pubic hair is always easy and fun. However, for many other people it presents problems. When the genital hair begins to grow back, itching often occurs. Red bumps and ingrown hair may appear. To relieve the irritation, you can apply cortisone cream. If these symptoms cause you stress or don't go away, see a doctor.

Some people have allergic reactions to certain shaving products, soaps, moisturizers and powders. As a solution, try hypoallergenic creams, moisturizers, or soaps. If this fails, don't shave or trim your hair.
Some women have noted genital sensitivity during menstruation. If shaving becomes uncomfortable for women during their periods, they should time pubic shaving around their menstruation cycle.
And if one type of hair removal gives you trouble, you might consider trying a different type or hair removal. For instance, shaving might irritate your skin, but waxing might not cause as much irritation or in-grown hairs.

Keep in mind that your pubic area is not the only body part than can experience red bumps, ingrown hairs, allergic reactions to products and razor burn when shaved. In other words, be aware of the warnings but don't let them scare you off.

If you want to trim or remove your hair and feel comfortable with the idea, try it!