Many of us shave our armpits because it gives the area a neat, clean appearance and keeps the odor from becoming a problem. But, shaving often irritates the skin and causes problems like razor burn, ingrown hairs and dark patches that look bruised. Using a few simple tips can help you avoid all of these issues and enjoy smooth, hair-free armpits that are soft to the touch.
Start with a fresh blade. It's important to always use a new, sharp blade when you shave because a dull one is more likely to cause irritation and nick or cut your skin. A fresh blade also helps reduce the chance of you getting a painful razor bump because it won't catch on your hair as easily.
Use shaving gel or foam. This will help hydrate the skin and create a silky surface that your razor can glide over, protecting it from irritation and increasing the chances of a close shave.
Exfoliate your armpits before shaving. This is especially important if you shave regularly or have sensitive skin, since it will help to even out the texture of your underarm skin and lower the risk of the razor catching on the hairs and causing those pesky razor burn or rash spots.
Rinse your razor after each stroke to remove any remaining foam and hair strands. Then rinse your armpits with warm water to remove any soap or shaving gel and dry them with a towel. Apply a small amount of post-shave balm to the areas you just shaved (it should be damp, not soaking wet) to help soothe your skin and reduce redness or itching after shaving.