Shaving the Underarm- Pros, cons, How to shave and reduce the risk ofinfection

We all know that fresh breezy feeling that comes with clean and hairless armpits. Shaving is the most usual way to achieve this.

This can be done with shaving sticks or shaving creams.

In this post, I am going to focus on doing this with Shaving sticks/razors.

If You have sensitive skin, then it's best to stick to shaving with razors, instead of depilatory creams. However, there are those designed for sensitive skin.

Pros of Shaving

• Easy and convenient

It is something that can be done before or during a shower. You also choose what time to do it (no need for appointments).

Unlike waxing or laser treatment, hair doesn't have to be a particular length before it is removed.

• Cheap

Disposable Razors (shaving sticks) are the most widely used instruments used to shave off the hair from the body.

A pack of 5 costs an average of 5USD, and each one can be reused before being disposed of.

• Painless

Apart from the minor stings that come with mistakes or inappropriate ways, it is generally considered to be a pain-free process.

The Cons

• Redness and burning feeling.

These are very common negative effects. Blades are sharp and are highly likely to interrupt the integrity of the skin. In other words, One can easily get injuries.

• Risk of skin infection

Any process that involves disturbing the barrier function of the skin, allows for bacteria and other germs to penetrate and cause infection. This is also the case for shaving.

• Hair grows back faster and more coarse

Shaving blades and creams only remove the hair we see. They don't uproot the hairs. Therefore, depending on how hairy You are, hair grows back fast.

In addition, the regrowth is more coarse when compared to that of waxing or laser treatment.

How to shave

1. Wet the area (in this case, the armpits). Lather with water and soap to make a barrier, some people testify by Baby oil. This is in order to avoid direct contact with the skin. It also makes the shaving smooth.


2. There are some shaving sticks that are infused with soothing ingredients such as Aloe vera, they help reduce the chances of inflammation


3. Run the razor along the direction of hair growth


4. Then wash off with water or wipe with a damp cloth. Be sure to rinse off the hair on the razors to avoid clogging them.


5. Observe for any remnant hair. 


6. If You want a clean shave, carefully run the razor opposite the direction of hair growth.


7. Do not apply any alcohol-based deodorant or perfume immediately after shaving. The skin may become inflamed.

After shaving

1. Wash the razor properly to remove hair that is stuck. Leave to air dry.


2. Dispose of after 2 or 3 uses.


3. In the case of redness and burning feeling: do not apply any deodorant to the area. If You must, use the one with 0% alcohol. Allow Your underarms to breathe by exposing them often. And don't wear anything that may cause friction, thereby further irritation in the area. Lastly, don't shave again or use any method of hair removal, until it heals.

Thank You for reading.

Yours in the flawless skin journey, Nafisah NK