What about we stop pressuring and bullying young girls into shaving their skin? It's wrong on so many levels. It's sad that shaving your body hair off is normalised. Not to mention the beauty standards for women are pe*dophillic.
@@iloveresidentevil558that is true. But it’s just a personal preference of mine to be smooth. I love how soft my skin feels! But I do agree with the weird pressure around women to shave. I used to shave regularly. But lately I’ve been to lazy and been shaving my legs whenever I feel like it which happens to be every 1-3 months (besides my armpits, those are shaved regularly lol)
Ingrown hairs and irritation are the story of my life. One of the things that has helped me the most is simply to go commando overnight after shaving. Most of my irritation tends to be where the elastic of my underwear touches my skin, in the crease of my leg.
A synopsis- (these are just the key points it's better if you watch the video completely.) Enough time to dedicate Trim if the hair is long get all tools-stool Bathe first exfoliate- physical (when performing exfoliation apply a gentle cleanser) Rinse clean don't use multi blade razors Shaving gel/cream (Coat EVERYTHING) A lil cup to fill water to rinse the razor Shave in the direction of the hair growth shave with really short strokes after care: apply after shave Tend skin (toner) moisturize wear loose underwear
I always broke out terribly from shaving, even with proper prep and after-care. Then while researching nickel-free metals for my jewelry, I realized that my razor may actually contain nickel, which I am allergic to and that may be responsible for my break outs. So I did some research and found (at that time, not sure about now since I have stopped shaving due to hip surgery), Billie brand razors were nickel-free. I used those and it helped significantly! So if you are a person who cannot wear costume jewelry, unless it is fomulated for sensitive skin and is nickel-free, then try finding a razor that is the same❤
Thank you so much for this information..I'm 77 and no one ever has given me instructions about this! Sooo, a big hug to you for your help. BTW. I have used my left over hair conditioner to shave my legs. The conditioner leaves my skin nice & soft, plus it also softens the hair. I've done this for years. It has saved me from buying sometimes expensive shave gels and I use up the condition way down in the bottom of the container. I'm a retired RN and I hope to never stop learning new things. Thanks again.
As a retired dancer, I still use *cerave healing ointment* after shaving. The girls used to tell me to use neosporin but that’s not quite necessary. The only time I have shave bumps is if I forget it! Plus it’s unscented and kinda inert in that it doesn’t have very irritating ingredients- only use externally tho obviously!!!
Previous competitive swimmer here! Glycolic acid the day before and after shaving helps me so much with itching and ingrown hair! I definitely recommend it if you're more of a fan of chemical exfoliants. I also use shower oil as a shaving cream, as I never really got that to work for me. The shower oil reduces the friction a lot and doesn't leave a film like conditioners sometimes do. Hydrocortisone is indeed a lifesaver if things went a bit too fast. I use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, Sebamed shower oil without perfume and Sebamed hydrating body lotion without perfume
I do/use most of the things recommended in this video and as someone with the MOST sensitive skin on planter earth I can say they all work!!! I use a trimmer most of the time now and only shave when I want that ultra silky smooth skin and I never get razor burn anymore!!
This video is a lifesaver. I was considering stopping shaving just to avoid the pain it caused over the next 2 days. Tried everything mentioned twice and worked out like a charm. 😍😍
I've not shaved my bikini line FOR YEARS because of irritation and razor bumps, so I've gotten used to wearing shorts to cover my area. But after this I may just give it another go. Thanks Dr. Ellis!
this is the first time somebody made sens for shaving privat parts, and told it very clear and without shame, and made it very usefull by naming te areas and not only just down there. i wish i did hear this story 25 years earlyer. and yes it should be told in highschools to in personal health lessons or biologie. i think a lot of teens would be very greatfull for it.
“What is bookclub for besides talking about shaving your pubic hair?!” 😂😂 This video was SO helpful!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. Sending to my gfs right now.
Another tip is to spray your razor with isopropyl alcohol before and after shaving to disinfect. Also I LOVE Cerave For Rough and Bumpy Skin Moisturizer-it works SO well for ingrowns, irritation, etc. Highly recommend. Thank you for this video!! 🫶
If shaving cream never does u any good try out conditioner!! I used to struggle SO much using shaving cream bc it left me with lots of ingrown hairs but one day i emptied my can and tried out conditioner - LIFE SAVER!
Try shaving oil. Or baby oil mixed with an ultra sensitive oil cleanser Hair conditioner can have a lot of ingredients you don't want on your skin. And nope, hair conditioner isn't supposed to be on your scalp.
Great tips! I find I get the best shave if I do it as a two-step process. First shave is as described here, then the next day I shave again after my shower (but before towelling off) using oil (jojoba or argan) instead of shaving gel. A mug of hot soapy water to rinse my razor. Incredibly close, smooth and comfortable shave that lasts just a little longer. I do this for both my legs and the pubic area. It doesn't seem to make much of a difference in the armpits for me. Yes, it's extra time and care, but when the shave needs to be just so, it's worth it!
I shaved my bikini line just ONCE during high school and got such bad razor burn, it felt like my skin was on fire. I never touched it again. Because the hair would stick out on the sides of my bikini, I started wearing boardshorts. Eventually I even stopped swimming. 18 years later I went for laser hair treatment around my bikini area. I never thought there could be a correct way to shave down there lol. I don't mind the hair, I just mow the lawn every now and then.
I use baby oil after shaving. I have extremely thin skin and always got horrible red bumps after shaving. But since using the baby oil I have no such problem anymore. The baby oil is made for delicate baby skin and it's made to soothe.
I use coconut oil from my grocery store as an after shower moisturizer. The fragrance in a lot of the body oils made my skin irritated. I also use it on my toddler & have since she was tiny! I do love the classic light scent of baby oil, so I will sometimes add a few drops to my daughter's coconut oil & her skin doesn't get any irritation!
The amount of work because of societal pressures is insane. It bugs me that it’s so ingrained that we need to be hairless. That being said, I am unfortunately ingrained with this norm and these tips are amazing. Thank you!
I agree with that (the societal pressures). Thanks to the mainstreem pornography that sets standard for women and makes hair unnaceptable. Very hard on women to have our natural body rejected. So painfull for me personally :( (my boyfriend doesn't like me the way I like me - not fun)
I love the Bikini Zone shave gel. It's clear so it's easier to see where you're shaving and it really helps the razor glide super smoothly. It has some skin-soothing ingredients and is pretty cheap!
and the stubble hurt and irritate even more... i gotta save against it or at least side to side and i use a intimate after shave cream and it does wonders
IT WORKED! For the first time ever I didn't get bumps, pain, and misery. I even swam that next day with no pain and that region not in agony! I got the products listed and really liked the Skin Tend.
This is sooo helpful! I was always a bit worried about shaving and especially in the bikini zone. Because of my (long time undiagnosed) PCOS I always grew a bit more hair and others made me feel really uncomfortable with it… Only now starting my 20s I’m growing more comfortable in my body and straight to the point tutorials like this are exactly what I need ❤
Try waxing. It can take weeks for the hairs to grow back and the constant ripping out destroys the follicles so over time the hair gets thinner or doesn't grow back at all.
Look, I love my derma docs in here. So knowledgeable, so kind, so honest... but you, Dr. Sam, damn! Above and beyond with these tips. So detailed, I feel I'm never making a shaving mistake again. (Excuse my enthusiasm)
Glycolic acid on the area the day before shaving.. At the time of shaving, put on shaving cream and shave the area. When done, use a light moisturizing gel or cream
Thank you for this. I have extremely sensitive skin, and even a trim below the belt causes me discomfort. I'm not considering shaving, but anything to reduce irritation is absolutely wonderful.
I think this video is sooo appreciated be every lady watching this, thank you!🙏🏻Would love a video about treatment for ingrown pubic hairs (especially stubborn ones) too!
I always take a 10-to-15-minute hot bath before shaving, for the same reasons you encouraged shaving at the end of a shower. This prevents razor bumps on my legs and makes shaving my V a whole lot easier. I've done this for years and haven't gotten "strawberry legs" once!
Omg I’ve been shaving wrong this whole time, every time id finish shaving, my downstairs would be so irritated and red i never understood why. Today i tried this out and i was pleasantly surprised no irritation and redness so i am truly greatful❤️❤️for your videos.
Soooo, I used the cup to clean the razor and tell me why I just got the cleanest bikini shave of my life, as a 36 year old woman with PCOS. Dr. Sam for president!
So helpful! I really think we should be taught this when we first start to grow hair. I felt there was stigma around grooming yourself growing up but it’s all personal preference. I no longer fully shave my entire intimate area as I cut myself once at the entrance and had to have surgery to remove the scar tissue, so I use a shaver to trim it all down which makes me feel cleaner.
Got the tip from Dr Idriss for the face, but after a bad burn while shaving or waxing, I apply a thick layer of diaper rash cream! It soothes and protects it overnight. It makes a mess on your shorts or underwear so be cognizant of that, but it’s saved my pubic area multiple times! Thanks for the other tips!
Great tip about getting a razor with less blades. I even use the one that's made for your eyebrows or face to help with the hair around the thighs. I've also used hair conditioner as shaving cream for many years to soften the hair and if you buy a cheap brand it lasts a long time.
Watching this especially the diagrams and reading some tips in the comments had actually been really helpful, so thank you! I’m 26 and this makes me more confident next time I go to shave my bikini area.
Look, it may not be recommended, but I use conditioner to shave my pits, legs, and pubic area. I started doing this like 5 years ago and I've never looked back. I buy the cheap $1 Suave conditioner and it's been a game changer for me. I never get red bumps, ingrown hairs, and the skin feels silky smooth afterwards. I'll even apply extra conditioner to the area for the next day or 2 after shaving and it really helps with making sure that I don't get that sucky itching and burning feeling I used to get in the days after shaving down there. I just use my regular 5 blade razor and I haven't had an issue. I know everyone is different and has different skin, so maybe some people need these extra products like toner and moisturizer but for me the conditioner is a one and done. It also makes the razor glide so smoothly over the skin when shaving. I just love it!!!
Two questions: 1) How would I navigate shaving in the shower if I wear glasses? The shower is just about the only space in my bathroom big enough to shave in, so I kind of have to do it there, but it seems like no matter what I do, I wouldn’t be able to see, either because of steam or not wearing my glasses. 2) Any pre-shave hair trimmer recommendations? I’ve never had to shop for one before so I don’t really know what to look for. Thank you so much! 🩷
i go mostly blind as well and just feel where to go but if i want a perfect shave i take my glasses and i find that once you get them wet they don’t fog but it’s not ideal either 😅
Since I have turned 46, I have switched to electric razors. I never get razor burn ever! Its also not super close either. But I've been married for 20 years, so my husband doesn't care if I shave at all anymore. He is happy if he can just touch the side 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
It's close enough to feel more hygienic. I'm single as a Pringle, but I feel so unclean in summer with all that long pubic hair. And really, the with the grain shaving is not that close shave I'd want if I'm going to bother with wet shaving either.
@@mchobbit2951 Another single Pringle here and totally unrelated but... your pup!! So adoooorable 🥰🥰 I see cute doggo (all of them are) and I have to say something 🤗 Hope you and him/her are doing great :)
One aftercare MUST is also rosehip oil! Instead of buying multiple products, I always only use that after and it helps with razor bumps, irritation, and hydration all in one!
Venus has a whole lineup of products for pubic hair care that are really good! I'm not affiliated with them in any way, I just wanted to share my personal experience. This video is extremely helpful!🙌🏻💖
The best and the most useful video ever!! I’m always afraid to shaving the public area. I got wax, I used epilators 30 years now when I decided to get laser hair removal. But that is mean, between the laser treatments I have to shave myself. It is the most stressful procedure always. Seriously, my heart was beating, I was terrified of cutting myself. After watching this video I feel more comfortable and relaxed about shaving. And such a great idea the cortisol cream! I’ll do all of tips with less stress and dread. This video is stopgaps. Many thanks for this video!! 💙
I use battery operated electric razors from Venus to shave my bikini line and entire love garden down there. I’ve been doing this for a couple of years now. It gives me a closest shave but leave subtle stubbles but ZERO irritation and ZERO ingrown hairs, zero razor bumps and ZERO BLEEDING follicles. One time I decided to do a smooth shave with a manual razor and I got the biggest and worst ingrown hair that looked like a massive cystic acne and was so painful. I was like nope never again. I have been all natural full bush. I am happy with my way of grooming.
Thank you! I wish I had access to this information decades ago lol! I’m so grateful to have it now though and I will also share this video with my 20 year old daughter and she can pass it on to her friends 🥰 You’re an angel to help us out 😇
i’ve had SO much trouble for so long with shaving downstairs. thank you so much for for posting this. i bought 4 of the products at target today and can’t wait to try it in my shower tonight!
My recommendation (if you don’t want to laser): Just epilate. It’s horrible pain but it lasts for 3 weeks and you get used to it. Never shaving again. You can even epilate as soon as you see single hairs, then it is even less painful. I find the results much better than waxing/sugaring and I can take as much time as I need instead of getting an instant pain shock while waxing.
Well this is probably going to be the strangest comment you'll get but here goes. I'm a 64year old man and as a teenager back in the 70s, in the summer I wore low rise or what we called men's bikini swim trunks. I also wore and still do wear men's bikini briefs. "Old habits are hard to break." In the summer because I spent a lot of time at the pool I would use an old pair of barbers clippers to trim the hair on my legs and chest so I could get a good tan on them. One after noon I had put on my swim trunks to get ready to go to the pool and as I was walking through the house my Mom said, "Your not going to the pool like that are you?" She pointed out that I was showing to much and I needed to trim. My Mom was a Cosmetologist, so she told me how to trim and even do a little shaving down there to keep things neat. I'm 64 years old and I still keep things tidy.
Please do one on shaving armpits. In recent years dealing with really bad itching a day after shaving after over a decade of shaving there with no issues. Saw two derms and they suggested laser hair removal ($$$) or using a beard trimmer.
This is my favourite video of yours Dr Ellis! You’ve literally answered all of my questions I don’t have anyone to ask! More of the uncomfortable conversations please 😂 ❤
This is super helpful! I'm a girl who needs to be in a ballet leotard and almost see-through tights around twice a week, but I also have a lot of pubic hair that grows super, super fast and covers a few inches downward on my legs. So it's really annoying, and I've had ingrown hairs and bumps and scars in those areas, like at the top of my legs. Thanks so much for posting this video . Secondly I shaved my legs to go to the beach, and did almost none of these tips, and my legs are still ichy (a day and a half later) and sunburned! I have extremely long legs and thick, dark hair so it takes a huge amount of time to shave them. This video really helped a lot because now I can shave without worrying about ingrown hairs and red, blotchy spots!
I have trouble maintaining eye contact, even if it's with someone in a video, but for some reason I can maintain eye contact with Dr.Ellis. This is my first time seeing a video of hers, so I'm just surprised that the heavy eye contact feels comfortable.
This was a great video!!! While I have done some of these things...exfoliating,shave gel,I was going the wrong direction. I am over 65 and have shaved for many years down there. My Dermatologist is a man so obviously didn't want to ask about this. Not to mention hubby and I are active in our sex life. I once tried to wax at home and when ripping the cheese cloth off with the warm wax I applied....it was torture!! I never tried that again! Hubby asked what the heck happened as I was purple , with the whole labia and inner upper area just before your lady parts, and of course he saw it that night....lol...I couldn't keep a straight. face I was laughing so hard! I have been shaving the top area in a heart shape, as my friend and I thought this would be different and a Valentine day surprise...it was and lo and behold the hair stopped growing there., after years of doing this. I never had a lot of it anyway...but the hubby really likes the shaving and ability to see more anatomy, and he also shaves his nether region.This was a great video , I am going to start using the 1-2 blade razor, I was using the 5 Venus razor. It is more difficult to maneuver than a smaller 1-2 blade would be. Thankyou so much for the time you spent to enlighten and educate us lady's.
As a fat person who cannot see down there on my own i highly reccomend finding a mirror set up that works for you. I dont use the mirror modt of the time, but its a really good way to get to know the area so that you can do it by feel. Also, if you arent able to get aftershave I dont remember where i got this tip, but putting cold water on the shaved area helps a lot. I do this with my legs too. I have a detachable shower head so I can be precise, but you could also use an ice pack or a wet cold towel.
Thank you for this!!!! I had a "bad wax" at a facility that only does waxes, cause a gnarly ingrown hair which turned into an abcess/cyst under my skin. I had to go to a general surgeon to have it removed. 3 stitches and scar tissue in the crack of my leg, literally on my bikini line. I am off waxes forever.
I thank you for this! As I near 40 I get nervous to shave my bikini area. I have sensitive skin and last time I did this it resulted in a fluid filled cyst inside. I will use these tips this time!
I did 11 sessions and it's still around 50% of hair there. It grows back. In my case, at least, but in case of many other people too,so have this in mind. 😑 The hair became quite a bit softer tho. Which feels a bit weird. 😅
Totally agree. A travel tip for when you find yourself in a hotel without shaving cream- Hair conditioner works kinda better than shaving cream but it’s full of fragrance so I only use it in a pinch.
Here's another important tip!! SHAVE AT NIGHT if you can! Let that sensitive shaved skin heal overnight instead of exposing it to sweating, friction, panty elastic or friction from other clothes rubbing on it. Makes a HUGE difference to after shaving comfort.
my favorite products are the Naturium glycolic acid cleanser, Aveeno Theraputic shave gel, Venus for Public hair razor, and the Ulike air3. The ulike air 3 has changed EVERYTHING! No ingrowns, no irritation, and the way hair grows in soooooo slow and soooo thin.
74 here. Sent this to 54 and 53 yr old daughters, w/suggestion they also send to their 25 and 24 yr old daughters. We all thank you!
Love that 😂
Lol😂
You are a hell of a grandmother
Best grandmother award!❤
Save them the trouble and recommend they invest in laser hair removal. Best investment I ever made for self hygiene care
This video should be shown in school. Learning all the great tips in my 30s is wild.
What about we stop pressuring and bullying young girls into shaving their skin? It's wrong on so many levels. It's sad that shaving your body hair off is normalised. Not to mention the beauty standards for women are pe*dophillic.
@@iloveresidentevil558that is true. But it’s just a personal preference of mine to be smooth. I love how soft my skin feels! But I do agree with the weird pressure around women to shave. I used to shave regularly. But lately I’ve been to lazy and been shaving my legs whenever I feel like it which happens to be every 1-3 months (besides my armpits, those are shaved regularly lol)
The way she said "shave the backdoor" and never flinched...this is why her gfs trust her! Wish i had friends like this!
I noticed that too
Isn't it how mature people speak about basic Hygiene?
I'm glad youtube exists. This is just stuff not a lot of people get taught about but it's important to know the ways to make it easier and safer.
Best Pubic Service Announcement Ever! 😝
😂😂😂
🤣
😂😂😂
💯😺
🤣🤣 I have the best subscribers!
Ingrown hairs and irritation are the story of my life. One of the things that has helped me the most is simply to go commando overnight after shaving. Most of my irritation tends to be where the elastic of my underwear touches my skin, in the crease of my leg.
Yes! Reducing friction for a couple days after shaving helps a ton!
@@DrSamEllisa couple of days!? how do you get more than two days out of a shave? does my hair just grow too fast?
@@chayarchy some people definitely grow faster than others!
But it is not uncommon at all to have new stubble after two days...
@@chayarchy I have stubbles after 2 days and I'm not super hairy, you're 'normal' :))
A synopsis- (these are just the key points it's better if you watch the video completely.)
Enough time to dedicate
Trim if the hair is long
get all tools-stool
Bathe first
exfoliate- physical (when performing exfoliation apply a gentle cleanser)
Rinse clean
don't use multi blade razors
Shaving gel/cream (Coat EVERYTHING)
A lil cup to fill water to rinse the razor
Shave in the direction of the hair growth
shave with really short strokes
after care: apply after shave Tend skin (toner)
moisturize
wear loose underwear
I loved this all-in-one video! Dermatologists on RUclips truly, are gifts from God!
I always broke out terribly from shaving, even with proper prep and after-care. Then while researching nickel-free metals for my jewelry, I realized that my razor may actually contain nickel, which I am allergic to and that may be responsible for my break outs. So I did some research and found (at that time, not sure about now since I have stopped shaving due to hip surgery), Billie brand razors were nickel-free. I used those and it helped significantly! So if you are a person who cannot wear costume jewelry, unless it is fomulated for sensitive skin and is nickel-free, then try finding a razor that is the same❤
this is so SMART!!
Good catch and thanks for sharing. I’m going to look into that.
That makes total sense 🤯
Thank you for sharing!
Wow, appreciate this comment so much!!!
"Recovering" is absolutely the right terminology for me 😅 xx
same!
My thoughts exactly during the video. 💕😂
She is our Hairy Godmother 😄
I'm screaming!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much for this information..I'm 77 and no one ever has given me instructions about this! Sooo, a big hug to you for your help. BTW. I have used my left over hair conditioner to shave my legs. The conditioner leaves my skin nice & soft, plus it also softens the hair. I've done this for years. It has saved me from buying sometimes expensive shave gels and I use up the condition way down in the bottom of the container. I'm a retired RN and I hope to never stop learning new things. Thanks again.
I’m a male who shaves, and I watched your video, and I found it to be helpful to me as well as to the girls. Thanks!
As a retired dancer, I still use *cerave healing ointment* after shaving. The girls used to tell me to use neosporin but that’s not quite necessary. The only time I have shave bumps is if I forget it! Plus it’s unscented and kinda inert in that it doesn’t have very irritating ingredients- only use externally tho obviously!!!
Love this stuff! Works really well for dried skin and/or eczema as well
The tend skin is amazing
Thanks for sharing!
Previous competitive swimmer here!
Glycolic acid the day before and after shaving helps me so much with itching and ingrown hair! I definitely recommend it if you're more of a fan of chemical exfoliants. I also use shower oil as a shaving cream, as I never really got that to work for me. The shower oil reduces the friction a lot and doesn't leave a film like conditioners sometimes do.
Hydrocortisone is indeed a lifesaver if things went a bit too fast.
I use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid, Sebamed shower oil without perfume and Sebamed hydrating body lotion without perfume
thank you i was planning to buy glycolic acid
I do/use most of the things recommended in this video and as someone with the MOST sensitive skin on planter earth I can say they all work!!! I use a trimmer most of the time now and only shave when I want that ultra silky smooth skin and I never get razor burn anymore!!
Just wanted to say I tried this method and instead of 20+ ingrown hairs, I’ve only had 2. Thanks, Dr Ellis!
This video is a lifesaver. I was considering stopping shaving just to avoid the pain it caused over the next 2 days. Tried everything mentioned twice and worked out like a charm. 😍😍
I've not shaved my bikini line FOR YEARS because of irritation and razor bumps, so I've gotten used to wearing shorts to cover my area. But after this I may just give it another go. Thanks Dr. Ellis!
This is BY FAR one of the most professional and educational videos on RUclips! I mean in such a taboo topic.
Aww the little drawing. This was so wholesome and encouraging
this is the first time somebody made sens for shaving privat parts, and told it very clear and without shame, and made it very usefull by naming te areas and not only just down there. i wish i did hear this story 25 years earlyer. and yes it should be told in highschools to in personal health lessons or biologie. i think a lot of teens would be very greatfull for it.
“What is bookclub for besides talking about shaving your pubic hair?!” 😂😂 This video was SO helpful!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. Sending to my gfs right now.
🫶🏼🫶🏼
🫶
Another tip is to spray your razor with isopropyl alcohol before and after shaving to disinfect. Also I LOVE Cerave For Rough and Bumpy Skin Moisturizer-it works SO well for ingrowns, irritation, etc. Highly recommend. Thank you for this video!! 🫶
Agree with CeraVe SA smoothing cream! I apply that and then hydrocortisone on top of I have ingrown hairs.👌
Thank you for that tip. I have veinous ulcers on my legs and if I'm not very careful I will tear the bumps on my legs up. And omg it hurts so bad.
Absolutely! No one needs a staph infection! 😩 and air dry razors 🪒 if they’re not ready to be thrown out.
If shaving cream never does u any good try out conditioner!! I used to struggle SO much using shaving cream bc it left me with lots of ingrown hairs but one day i emptied my can and tried out conditioner - LIFE SAVER!
It seems to dull razors quicker tho
Conditioner for the win! I LOVE using it. Left shaving gel behind.
Garnier Fructise! Never buy shaving cream again.
Try shaving oil.
Or baby oil mixed with an ultra sensitive oil cleanser
Hair conditioner can have a lot of ingredients you don't want on your skin.
And nope, hair conditioner isn't supposed to be on your scalp.
Great tips!
I find I get the best shave if I do it as a two-step process. First shave is as described here, then the next day I shave again after my shower (but before towelling off) using oil (jojoba or argan) instead of shaving gel. A mug of hot soapy water to rinse my razor.
Incredibly close, smooth and comfortable shave that lasts just a little longer. I do this for both my legs and the pubic area. It doesn't seem to make much of a difference in the armpits for me.
Yes, it's extra time and care, but when the shave needs to be just so, it's worth it!
I shaved my bikini line just ONCE during high school and got such bad razor burn, it felt like my skin was on fire. I never touched it again. Because the hair would stick out on the sides of my bikini, I started wearing boardshorts. Eventually I even stopped swimming.
18 years later I went for laser hair treatment around my bikini area. I never thought there could be a correct way to shave down there lol. I don't mind the hair, I just mow the lawn every now and then.
I use baby oil after shaving. I have extremely thin skin and always got horrible red bumps after shaving. But since using the baby oil I have no such problem anymore. The baby oil is made for delicate baby skin and it's made to soothe.
I use coconut oil from my grocery store as an after shower moisturizer. The fragrance in a lot of the body oils made my skin irritated. I also use it on my toddler & have since she was tiny! I do love the classic light scent of baby oil, so I will sometimes add a few drops to my daughter's coconut oil & her skin doesn't get any irritation!
The amount of work because of societal pressures is insane. It bugs me that it’s so ingrained that we need to be hairless.
That being said, I am unfortunately ingrained with this norm and these tips are amazing. Thank you!
I agree with that (the societal pressures). Thanks to the mainstreem pornography that sets standard for women and makes hair unnaceptable. Very hard on women to have our natural body rejected. So painfull for me personally :( (my boyfriend doesn't like me the way I like me - not fun)
Thank you! Was too embarrassed to ask about this topic!
Seriously ? If you have ax please get comfortable asking all questions!
I love the Bikini Zone shave gel. It's clear so it's easier to see where you're shaving and it really helps the razor glide super smoothly. It has some skin-soothing ingredients and is pretty cheap!
Thank you for the recommendation. I will try this❤
That last tip makes SO much sense-plus the hair is more prickly when growing back since being cut but a razor rather than waxed out.
And sometimes itchy 😂😊
@@chrissieb3350all the time! Laser is best!
As for exfoliation, I use rice flour mixed in water. That does wonders
Shaving ANYTHING (legs, pits, etc) IN the direction of hair growth instead of against it has always just resulted in creating stubble for me...
The pubic area is the only place I go with the flow of the hair… I get it
Ah yes it’s less ideal for the closest shave, but it’s really important to do that if you’re prone to ingrowns.
and the stubble hurt and irritate even more... i gotta save against it or at least side to side
and i use a intimate after shave cream and it does wonders
@@mellowhnyI’d love to know what after shave product you like as I could use one!
@@DrSamEllisyou’re my best friend I really like you ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
IT WORKED! For the first time ever I didn't get bumps, pain, and misery. I even swam that next day with no pain and that region not in agony! I got the products listed and really liked the Skin Tend.
@@captaincrunch784 🫶🏼 so happy to hear it!!
@@DrSamEllis Free the woo-haw from misery! No one ever taught me this because no one was as furry as me.
You just described my nightmare when talk bout to shave bikini area.😢… I will try it.
This is sooo helpful! I was always a bit worried about shaving and especially in the bikini zone. Because of my (long time undiagnosed) PCOS I always grew a bit more hair and others made me feel really uncomfortable with it… Only now starting my 20s I’m growing more comfortable in my body and straight to the point tutorials like this are exactly what I need ❤
Try waxing. It can take weeks for the hairs to grow back and the constant ripping out destroys the follicles so over time the hair gets thinner or doesn't grow back at all.
Look, I love my derma docs in here. So knowledgeable, so kind, so honest... but you, Dr. Sam, damn! Above and beyond with these tips. So detailed, I feel I'm never making a shaving mistake again.
(Excuse my enthusiasm)
Glycolic acid on the area the day before shaving.. At the time of shaving, put on shaving cream and shave the area. When done, use a light moisturizing gel or cream
This is the most comprehensive yet succinct shaving video. Thank you!
You are THE BEST! At 65 years old, I have learned so much practical advice and information from your amazing videos!
Thank you for this. I have extremely sensitive skin, and even a trim below the belt causes me discomfort. I'm not considering shaving, but anything to reduce irritation is absolutely wonderful.
I think this video is sooo appreciated be every lady watching this, thank you!🙏🏻Would love a video about treatment for ingrown pubic hairs (especially stubborn ones) too!
yes!!
I always take a 10-to-15-minute hot bath before shaving, for the same reasons you encouraged shaving at the end of a shower. This prevents razor bumps on my legs and makes shaving my V a whole lot easier. I've done this for years and haven't gotten "strawberry legs" once!
I wish this video existed when I was a teenager. So many ingrown hairs could have been avoided. Thank you!
Omg I’ve been shaving wrong this whole time, every time id finish shaving, my downstairs would be so irritated and red i never understood why. Today i tried this out and i was pleasantly surprised no irritation and redness so i am truly greatful❤️❤️for your videos.
Soooo, I used the cup to clean the razor and tell me why I just got the cleanest bikini shave of my life, as a 36 year old woman with PCOS. Dr. Sam for president!
I’ve been shaving all wrong! This was incredibly helpful, thanks.
So helpful! I really think we should be taught this when we first start to grow hair. I felt there was stigma around grooming yourself growing up but it’s all personal preference. I no longer fully shave my entire intimate area as I cut myself once at the entrance and had to have surgery to remove the scar tissue, so I use a shaver to trim it all down which makes me feel cleaner.
Wow! The best shaving instructional video I have ever seen. Thank you so much. I am 51 and suffer from unsightly razor bumps in my bikini area.
Got the tip from Dr Idriss for the face, but after a bad burn while shaving or waxing, I apply a thick layer of diaper rash cream! It soothes and protects it overnight. It makes a mess on your shorts or underwear so be cognizant of that, but it’s saved my pubic area multiple times! Thanks for the other tips!
If you put it on your face, use a towel.
My tip is using an eyebrow razor to shave. Much harder to cut yourself, easier to maneuver! It was a tip from my dermatologist.
Is that electric or manual?
@@RCGWho manual!
This sounds so smart! Plus it’s not multiple razors, so another win
Great tip about getting a razor with less blades. I even use the one that's made for your eyebrows or face to help with the hair around the thighs. I've also used hair conditioner as shaving cream for many years to soften the hair and if you buy a cheap brand it lasts a long time.
I loved the drawings!🤣🤣🤣 Thank you, this video was so helpful. I appreciate you taking the time to help your viewers.
😂 basically Picasso over here 💁🏼♀️
Watching this especially the diagrams and reading some tips in the comments had actually been really helpful, so thank you! I’m 26 and this makes me more confident next time I go to shave my bikini area.
Thank you for the tips! Loved how to addressed the matter as if you were one of my friends 🥰
I love your matter-of-fact tone. Go, girl
Look, it may not be recommended, but I use conditioner to shave my pits, legs, and pubic area. I started doing this like 5 years ago and I've never looked back. I buy the cheap $1 Suave conditioner and it's been a game changer for me. I never get red bumps, ingrown hairs, and the skin feels silky smooth afterwards. I'll even apply extra conditioner to the area for the next day or 2 after shaving and it really helps with making sure that I don't get that sucky itching and burning feeling I used to get in the days after shaving down there. I just use my regular 5 blade razor and I haven't had an issue. I know everyone is different and has different skin, so maybe some people need these extra products like toner and moisturizer but for me the conditioner is a one and done. It also makes the razor glide so smoothly over the skin when shaving. I just love it!!!
Yes, conditioner is a game changer! Its cheap and it works great!
Two questions:
1) How would I navigate shaving in the shower if I wear glasses? The shower is just about the only space in my bathroom big enough to shave in, so I kind of have to do it there, but it seems like no matter what I do, I wouldn’t be able to see, either because of steam or not wearing my glasses.
2) Any pre-shave hair trimmer recommendations? I’ve never had to shop for one before so I don’t really know what to look for.
Thank you so much! 🩷
you're going to have to learn to fly blind, my friend.
@@hauntedstormbird That’s sort of what I figured, but I’ve never actually asked anyone about it before. 🤔
You can try to put tiny amount of gel hand soap with dry hands on dry glasses, I find that helps with foginess
i go mostly blind as well and just feel where to go but if i want a perfect shave i take my glasses and i find that once you get them wet they don’t fog but it’s not ideal either 😅
Since I have turned 46, I have switched to electric razors. I never get razor burn ever! Its also not super close either. But I've been married for 20 years, so my husband doesn't care if I shave at all anymore. He is happy if he can just touch the side 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Haha I literally lol’d. So dang true
It's close enough to feel more hygienic. I'm single as a Pringle, but I feel so unclean in summer with all that long pubic hair. And really, the with the grain shaving is not that close shave I'd want if I'm going to bother with wet shaving either.
@@mchobbit2951 Another single Pringle here and totally unrelated but... your pup!! So adoooorable 🥰🥰
I see cute doggo (all of them are) and I have to say something 🤗
Hope you and him/her are doing great :)
Hahaha. Married almost twelve years. Mine doesn't care either 😄
What brand of electric razor do you recommend?
One aftercare MUST is also rosehip oil! Instead of buying multiple products, I always only use that after and it helps with razor bumps, irritation, and hydration all in one!
Venus has a whole lineup of products for pubic hair care that are really good! I'm not affiliated with them in any way, I just wanted to share my personal experience. This video is extremely helpful!🙌🏻💖
The best and the most useful video ever!!
I’m always afraid to shaving the public area. I got wax, I used epilators 30 years now when I decided to get laser hair removal. But that is mean, between the laser treatments I have to shave myself. It is the most stressful procedure always. Seriously, my heart was beating, I was terrified of cutting myself. After watching this video I feel more comfortable and relaxed about shaving. And such a great idea the cortisol cream! I’ll do all of tips with less stress and dread.
This video is stopgaps. Many thanks for this video!! 💙
What a comprehensive educational video!! Love getting advice from dermatologists on RUclips!!! Thank You!!!
I use battery operated electric razors from Venus to shave my bikini line and entire love garden down there. I’ve been doing this for a couple of years now. It gives me a closest shave but leave subtle stubbles but ZERO irritation and ZERO ingrown hairs, zero razor bumps and ZERO BLEEDING follicles. One time I decided to do a smooth shave with a manual razor and I got the biggest and worst ingrown hair that looked like a massive cystic acne and was so painful. I was like nope never again. I have been all natural full bush. I am happy with my way of grooming.
What electric razor do you use?
Thank you! I wish I had access to this information decades ago lol! I’m so grateful to have it now though and I will also share this video with my 20 year old daughter and she can pass it on to her friends 🥰 You’re an angel to help us out 😇
i’ve had SO much trouble for so long with shaving downstairs. thank you so much for for posting this. i bought 4 of the products at target today and can’t wait to try it in my shower tonight!
Your direction of shaving bokini hairs is very interesting and amazing.
My recommendation (if you don’t want to laser): Just epilate. It’s horrible pain but it lasts for 3 weeks and you get used to it. Never shaving again. You can even epilate as soon as you see single hairs, then it is even less painful. I find the results much better than waxing/sugaring and I can take as much time as I need instead of getting an instant pain shock while waxing.
Well this is probably going to be the strangest comment you'll get but here goes. I'm a 64year old man and as a teenager back in the 70s, in the summer I wore low rise or what we called men's bikini swim trunks. I also wore and still do wear men's bikini briefs. "Old habits are hard to break." In the summer because I spent a lot of time at the pool I would use an old pair of barbers clippers to trim the hair on my legs and chest so I could get a good tan on them. One after noon I had put on my swim trunks to get ready to go to the pool and as I was walking through the house my Mom said, "Your not going to the pool like that are you?" She pointed out that I was showing to much and I needed to trim. My Mom was a Cosmetologist, so she told me how to trim and even do a little shaving down there to keep things neat. I'm 64 years old and I still keep things tidy.
Omg thank you!!!! Would love a video about shaving legs and armpits too {KP, ingrown etc}.
Please do one on shaving armpits. In recent years dealing with really bad itching a day after shaving after over a decade of shaving there with no issues. Saw two derms and they suggested laser hair removal ($$$) or using a beard trimmer.
This is my favourite video of yours Dr Ellis! You’ve literally answered all of my questions I don’t have anyone to ask! More of the uncomfortable conversations please 😂 ❤
I started using cortisone about a year ago and it changed my life!! Thank you for mentioning it. I feel better now that it comes from a professional 😂
OMG Dr. Ellis.. I just learned SO much! Thank you!! I love your videos- so helpful and informative!
I was just thinking I needed to learn how to shave down there. Thanks for the thorough lesson!
Thank you! It is so nice to hear about this. We don’t talk about this, and this is the best talk I’ve heard - I’m 38 😄
This is amazing information and some stuff I've never heard ever before!! I have struggled with this my whole life. Thank you so much
This is super helpful! I'm a girl who needs to be in a ballet leotard and almost see-through tights around twice a week, but I also have a lot of pubic hair that grows super, super fast and covers a few inches downward on my legs. So it's really annoying, and I've had ingrown hairs and bumps and scars in those areas, like at the top of my legs. Thanks so much for posting this video .
Secondly I shaved my legs to go to the beach, and did almost none of these tips, and my legs are still ichy (a day and a half later) and sunburned! I have extremely long legs and thick, dark hair so it takes a huge amount of time to shave them. This video really helped a lot because now I can shave without worrying about ingrown hairs and red, blotchy spots!
Wow!! I learned so much. I have been nervous about shaving my area whenever I do, but now I feel way more confident. Thanks so much!!! ❤
I wish I watched this 20 years ago! So informative and helpful.
I have trouble maintaining eye contact, even if it's with someone in a video, but for some reason I can maintain eye contact with Dr.Ellis. This is my first time seeing a video of hers, so I'm just surprised that the heavy eye contact feels comfortable.
That’s wild I have literally never in my life thought of that once w a person in a video.
This was a great video!!! While I have done some of these things...exfoliating,shave gel,I was going the wrong direction. I am over 65 and have shaved for many years down there. My Dermatologist is a man so obviously didn't want to ask about this. Not to mention hubby and I are active in our sex life. I once tried to wax at home and when ripping the cheese cloth off with the warm wax I applied....it was torture!! I never tried that again! Hubby asked what the heck happened as I was purple , with the whole labia and inner upper area just before your lady parts, and of course he saw it that night....lol...I couldn't keep a straight. face I was laughing so hard! I have been shaving the top area in a heart shape, as my friend and I thought this would be different and a Valentine day surprise...it was and lo and behold the hair stopped growing there., after years of doing this. I never had a lot of it anyway...but the hubby really likes the shaving and ability to see more anatomy, and he also shaves his nether region.This was a great video , I am going to start using the 1-2 blade razor, I was using the 5 Venus razor. It is more difficult to maneuver than a smaller 1-2 blade would be. Thankyou so much for the time you spent to enlighten and educate us lady's.
This is my favorite beauty video ever! So helpful and fun. I love your drawings. Thank You! 🌞
I am a grown a$$ women and I just giggled threw this whole thing!!! Thank you so much for this, it was very helpful and great drawings!!!! LOL
This was soooo helpful and informative. I wish I'd had this info when I was younger and constantly in pain from shaving 😂😂
Thank you for this! Definitely wish this was discussed more and grateful you took the time to lay out these great tips!
Definitely learned something new today. BEST INFO EVER, THANKS DR.SAM
As a fat person who cannot see down there on my own i highly reccomend finding a mirror set up that works for you. I dont use the mirror modt of the time, but its a really good way to get to know the area so that you can do it by feel. Also, if you arent able to get aftershave I dont remember where i got this tip, but putting cold water on the shaved area helps a lot. I do this with my legs too. I have a detachable shower head so I can be precise, but you could also use an ice pack or a wet cold towel.
You are a QUEEN!! Next video plead:
What about waxing, laser, at home removal? Thanks for this amazing video!🥳
Thank you for this!!!!
I had a "bad wax" at a facility that only does waxes, cause a gnarly ingrown hair which turned into an abcess/cyst under my skin. I had to go to a general surgeon to have it removed. 3 stitches and scar tissue in the crack of my leg, literally on my bikini line. I am off waxes forever.
You’re doing god’s work.
I thank you for this! As I near 40 I get nervous to shave my bikini area. I have sensitive skin and last time I did this it resulted in a fluid filled cyst inside. I will use these tips this time!
Got tired of shaving down there…went the laser route and have never been happier!
Amen!! Same here! I would never go back!
Booked it today - so excited to never shave there again, but watching this since i think it takes a few sessions to work supposedly.
@@TimeisBothLimitedandInfinite yes..takes a few sessions to get all of the hair. So well worth it in the end though!
I did 11 sessions and it's still around 50% of hair there. It grows back. In my case, at least, but in case of many other people too,so have this in mind. 😑
The hair became quite a bit softer tho. Which feels a bit weird. 😅
@sakurazukamorisubaru you could easily epilate it at this point. lasts 3 weeks and is smoother than any wax or sugaring.
I never knew I was going to learn so much about ❤shaving I love it!!🎉
Great video and great illustrations!
Totally agree. A travel tip for when you find yourself in a hotel without shaving cream- Hair conditioner works kinda better than shaving cream but it’s full of fragrance so I only use it in a pinch.
Here's another important tip!! SHAVE AT NIGHT if you can! Let that sensitive shaved skin heal overnight instead of exposing it to sweating, friction, panty elastic or friction from other clothes rubbing on it. Makes a HUGE difference to after shaving comfort.
Will you do one or do you have one on tips of waxing too? Thanks bunches!
This is the tutorial I’ve been needing! Thank you 🙏🏻
The best video on this topic....so detailed and informative....and i got all my answers...thanks a lot doctor❤❤❤❤❤
my favorite products are the Naturium glycolic acid cleanser, Aveeno Theraputic shave gel, Venus for Public hair razor, and the Ulike air3. The ulike air 3 has changed EVERYTHING! No ingrowns, no irritation, and the way hair grows in soooooo slow and soooo thin.