How do you shave your perineum safely and effectively?

September 23, 2025 •

5 min read

According to a 2017 study, more than 25 percent of pubic hair groomers have injured themselves while grooming. This statistic underscores the importance of proper technique, especially when it comes to delicate areas. Learning how do you shave your perineum effectively and safely is crucial for preventing painful accidents and achieving a smooth, clean result.

Quick Summary

Achieving a smooth, safe shave of the perineum requires careful preparation, the right tools, and a deliberate technique to avoid nicks and irritation. First, trim longer hair, then soften the skin and hair in a warm bath. Use a new, clean razor, apply a sensitive-skin shaving gel, and use a mirror to shave slowly with the grain while keeping the skin taut. Finish by rinsing with cool water and moisturizing with a fragrance-free product.

Key Points

Prepare your tools: Always use a new, sharp, multi-blade razor and gentle, fragrance-free shaving gel to minimize irritation.
Trim first: Use small scissors or an electric trimmer to cut long hair down to about a quarter-inch before shaving.
Soften and cleanse: Take a warm bath or shower for 5-10 minutes to soften hair and skin, and wash the area with a mild soap.
Use a mirror and stretch skin: Use a handheld mirror for visibility and pull the skin taut to create a flat surface for safer shaving.
Shave with the grain: Always shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent ingrown hairs, razor burn, and excessive irritation.
Moisturize afterward: Apply a fragrance-free aftershave balm or aloe vera gel to soothe and calm the sensitive skin.

Preparation is key

Before you even pick up a razor, proper preparation is the most important step for a safe and successful shave. Rushing this process is a common cause of nicks, cuts, and irritation. Taking the time to prepare the area and your tools will make the entire process smoother and significantly reduce the risk of injury. Start by ensuring you have a private, well-lit space where you can be comfortable and focused. Remember that the skin in this area is extremely sensitive and prone to irritation, so gentle care is essential.

Assemble your grooming toolkit

Having the right supplies on hand before you begin ensures a seamless process. Your toolkit should include:

Small scissors or electric trimmer: For trimming longer hair. Facial hair scissors with rounded tips can be safer than standard scissors.
New, sharp razor: A multi-blade razor with a small, flexible head is often recommended for sensitive areas. A sharp blade reduces the need for pressure and minimizes irritation. Never use a dull blade.
Handheld mirror: Essential for seeing hard-to-reach areas clearly and preventing blind-shaving.
Sensitive-skin shaving gel or cream: Choose a fragrance-free, moisturizing formula to protect the skin and provide a smooth glide. Avoid harsh soaps or products with strong perfumes that can cause irritation.
Warm towel or bath access: Warmth softens the hair and skin, making shaving easier and reducing irritation. A 5-10 minute soak is ideal.
Aftershave balm or moisturizer: Use a fragrance-free, soothing product with ingredients like aloe vera to calm the skin and prevent razor burn.

The pre-shave routine

Trim the hair: If your hair is long, use the scissors or electric trimmer to trim it down to about a quarter-inch. This prevents the razor from clogging and makes it much more effective.
Cleanse and soften the skin: Take a warm shower or bath for at least five minutes to open pores and soften the coarse hair. Wash the area thoroughly with a mild, gentle soap to remove bacteria and oils.
Exfoliate gently: A gentle scrub with a soft washcloth can help remove dead skin cells and lift hairs, preparing them for a closer shave and preventing ingrown hairs. Be very gentle, as the skin is delicate.

The shaving process: step-by-step

With your skin and tools ready, you can proceed with the shave. Always take your time and use caution, especially in this sensitive area. Rushing is a recipe for disaster.

Position yourself safely: Find a stable position that gives you the best access and visibility. Many find that sitting on the edge of the tub or a non-slip bath mat, with one leg propped up, works best. Use your handheld mirror to clearly see the area.
Apply shaving gel: Lather the perineum and surrounding areas with your sensitive-skin shaving gel. Let it sit for a minute to further soften the hair.
Stretch the skin taut: Use one hand to gently pull and stretch the skin in the area you are shaving. This creates a flat, firm surface, significantly reducing the risk of nicks and helping the razor glide smoothly.
Shave with the grain: Make slow, short strokes, shaving in the direction of hair growth. This is critical for minimizing irritation and preventing ingrown hairs. Rinse the razor frequently to prevent clogging.
Be mindful of sensitive areas: Pay extra attention to the most delicate folds and creases. Do not apply excessive pressure. For very tight areas, some people prefer to use an electric trimmer with a close-guard setting rather than a blade. When shaving around the anal opening, pull the skin taut away from the center and shave in gentle, outward strokes.
Rinse and repeat (if necessary): Rinse away the shaved hair and cream with warm water. If you need a closer shave, re-lather and repeat the process gently. However, for initial attempts, it's often best to avoid multiple passes to prevent irritation.

Post-shave care and maintenance

What you do after shaving is just as important as the preparation. Proper aftercare will soothe the skin and prevent common issues like razor burn and ingrown hairs.

Aftercare tips

Rinse thoroughly with cool water: After shaving, rinse the area with cool water to close the pores and remove any remaining shaving gel and hair.
Pat, don't rub: Gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel. Rubbing can cause irritation.
Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer or soothing balm. Aloe vera gel is an excellent choice for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Wear loose clothing: For the rest of the day, wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction and allow the skin to heal and breathe.
Avoid certain products: Stay away from perfumed lotions, deodorants, or any harsh chemicals that can cause a reaction on your freshly shaved skin.

Comparing shaving techniques

While manual shaving is a popular choice, other methods exist for grooming the perineum. This table compares manual shaving with electric trimming and hair removal creams.


Feature	Manual Shaving	Electric Trimming	Depilatory Creams (Not Recommended)
Closeness of Shave	Very close, smooth finish.	Close, but not completely smooth.	Dissolves hair at the skin line.
Risk of Injury	Higher risk of nicks and cuts, especially in blind spots.	Lower risk of nicks and cuts, but still possible with improper use.	High risk of chemical burns and severe irritation in sensitive areas.
Ingrown Hairs	Higher risk if not done correctly (e.g., shaving against the grain).	Lower risk as the cut is less close to the skin.	Minimal risk, as hair is dissolved rather than cut.
Speed	Moderate, requires careful, slow movements.	Faster, especially for maintenance.	Requires application time, but no shaving effort.
Maintenance	Frequent shaving required for a consistently smooth result.	More frequent touch-ups needed.	Can last longer than shaving, but regrowth can be itchy.
Comfort	Can be irritating for sensitive skin, especially after repeated shaving.	Generally more comfortable and less irritating than manual shaving.	Can cause extreme discomfort, burning, and allergic reactions. Not recommended for this area.

Conclusion

Shaving the perineum safely and effectively is an achievable goal, provided you commit to a careful and deliberate approach. By investing time in proper preparation—including trimming, softening the hair, and gathering the right tools—you set yourself up for success. Following a methodical shaving process, with a focus on visibility and gentle strokes, minimizes the risk of painful cuts and irritation. Finally, a consistent aftercare routine is vital for soothing the skin and keeping it healthy. While other methods like electric trimming offer a safer alternative for some, those who prefer manual shaving can achieve excellent results by following these careful steps. Prioritizing safety and patience will ensure a smooth and confident grooming experience every time. For further information on intimate hygiene and health, you can consult reliable resources such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often you shave depends on your personal preference and skin sensitivity. For some, shaving every few days might be fine, while others may need to wait longer to prevent irritation. Start by waiting a few days to a week between shaves until your skin acclimates.

The safest way is to use a new, sharp, clean razor, a sensitive-skin shaving gel, and a mirror for visibility. Always trim hair first and shave slowly in the direction of hair growth to minimize risk of injury and irritation.

Trimming with a guarded electric trimmer is generally safer and causes less irritation than shaving with a razor, especially for those with very sensitive skin. Shaving provides a closer, smoother result but carries a higher risk of nicks, cuts, and ingrown hairs.

To prevent ingrown hairs, always shave with the grain of the hair, use a sharp razor, and prepare the skin by exfoliating gently beforehand. Moisturize the area with a fragrance-free product afterward to soothe the skin.

Yes, an electric trimmer with a sensitive guard is an excellent, low-risk option for grooming the perineum. It provides a close trim without cutting the hair directly against the skin, which helps prevent irritation and ingrown hairs.

If you get a small cut, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. Wash the area with mild soap and water, and then apply an antiseptic ointment like Aquaphor to prevent infection. For serious cuts, consult a doctor.

Itching after shaving is often caused by irritation, dull blades, or shaving against the grain. Using a sharp razor, shaving correctly, and applying a soothing, alcohol-free moisturizer can help reduce post-shave itchiness.