How to shave your armpits like a Marvel hero
- My Tv
- Apr 23, 2024
- 4 min read
Thor does it – and so do millions of other men in an age of advanced grooming. Here's how to get it right
Want to learn how to shave your armpits? Well, you're not alone! According to a 2019 survey, of all the dudes who were questioned, 68 per cent said they trim their underarms regularly. It's a grooming trend that's becoming more and more popular over the years, to the point that there are even dedicated shavers out there that have been specifically designed for that part of the body.
But getting rid of it isn't as easy as just booting up a shaver, especially if you want to do it properly and safely. So, in this handy guide, we'll be teaching you how to shave your armpits the right way with the help of some industry experts.
Ahava Foam-Free Shaving Cream
Why are guys shaving their armpits?
#1: Keep it clean
Just like how some men shave their balls for hygiene reasons, a lot of guys have started shaving their pits because of this too. If you're someone who hits the gym a lot or you do a lot of physical activities, trimmed armpits can allow for better sweat evaporation.
Not only can this reduce the chances of body odour, but because your underarm area is feeling fresh most of the time, it can prevent the buildup of bacteria as well, which can lead to skin conditions like itching and rashes. If Chris Hemsworth does it, you probably should too.
#2: It's based on personal preference
The idea of shaving your armpits seems like a pretty new one, but guys have actually been doing it for thousands and thousands of years. Back in Ancient Egypt, for example, men removed their body hair for aesthetics, and this is still the reason why so many dudes continue to do it today.
It's all down to personal preference, really. Some people like the look and feel of smooth underarms, and if you're planning on wearing a lot of tank tops or vests this summer, your fit might look a little better without that awkward bit of hair poking out. You do you!#3: It enhances performance
If you've ever watched a professional runner or swimmer on TV or IRL, chances are their armpits are completely bald. Why? Well, it's because it apparently make their bodies more aerodynamic by reducing drag and friction.
The difference might be minuscule, but if you're doing these sports on a competitive level, every millisecond counts.
Clinique for Men Cream Shave
How do you shave your armpits?
#1: Let's get started
The first thing you want to do before shaving your armpits is to take a warm shower to open up all your pores. If that seems like it'll take too much time and you want a quicker option, using a warm towel and placing it on your underarms for a few minutes can help as well.
“Shaving your armpit hair can result in skin irritation, and because the skin around your underarm area is so delicate, it means it can inadvertently get cut,” says Dr Ellie Rashid, consultant dermatologist at One Welbeck. “This first step is absolutely crucial, as it'll make the whole process a lot more effortless and will cause less irritation down the line.”
#2: Choose the right razor
It's not a case of just picking up the first shaver that you see and just going for it. You need to consider whether it has features like hypoallergenic foil, the design of the trimmer itself and whether it's bi-directional, and for those of you who like to multitask in the shower, whether or not it's waterproof.
Some brands also offer warranties and product repair services, so if your device ever needs a little bit of TLC, you can just get it repaired without having to replace the entire thing.
Elemis Skin Soothe Shave Gel
#3: Get some products
Just like how you'd shave your beard, you need to get yourself a decent shaving cream or gel. And because the area around your armpits is particularly thin and delicate, you should grab one that's made for sensitive skin. Not only will this provide lubrication so that your shaver will glide smoothly, it'll also reduce the chances of razor burn, which is the last thing that you want.
“To try and avoid irritation, I would recommend using a shaving cream or gel,” says Rashid. “Not only will this reduce friction, it'll also create a barrier between the razor and the delicate skin in the underarms.”
#4: Rinse it off
When you start shaving, be sure to go in the direction of hair growth to minimise irritation. Once you're done, rinse your underarms with cool water to close the pores. Gently pat the skin with a clean, dry cloth, and apply a decent dab of moisturiser or soothing lotion.
“As the hairs begin to grow back, there is a chance that they can curl in on themselves and get trapped underneath the skin's surface,” says Rashid. “This irritates the hair follicle and can lead to inflammation, otherwise known as folliculitis. This presents itself with pus-filled spots, whiteheads, and inflamed red bumps. An antimicrobial and moisturising wash can help with this.”
Espa Dual Action Shave Mud
What can you do instead?
So, that's how to shave your armpits. But if that method is a little too time-consuming and painful and the results aren't long-lasting enough for you, there are other options that you can consider, including laser hair removal.
This is becoming more and more popular with dudes. In fact, according to IML Clinic in Madrid, almost 20 per cent of all laser hair removal patients are now guys, which is a huge increase from what it was just a few years ago.
“Laser hair removal means saying goodbye to constant upkeep,” says aesthetic doctor Dr Vahe Karimyan. “By targeting hair follicles, it slows down hair growth, leaving men with smoother underarms for longer. Plus, it is way gentler on the skin compared to razors or wax strips, meaning less irritation and fewer bumps. It’s a win-win, offering lasting results, precision, and convenience.”
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