Shaving

Shaving is a form of depilation that cuts hair at skin level using a blade or electric trimmer. It is quick, inexpensive and widely practised for legs, underarms, the bikini area and other parts of the body.

How it works

A razor or trimmer slices the hair shaft at the skin surface. Results are immediate but short-lived—typically 1–5 days depending on hair coarseness and growth rate.

Pros and cons

Advantages: fast, cheap, easy to do at home, little specialised equipment required.
Disadvantages: short duration, can cause nicks, razor burn, irritation, and ingrown hairs; stubble may feel coarser as it re-emerges.

Health & safety

Always use a clean, sharp blade and lubrication (shaving cream, soap or oil) to reduce friction.
Shave with gentle strokes and avoid excessive pressure.
Replace disposable blades frequently to reduce infection risk; sanitise electric trimmers regularly.
To minimise ingrown hairs: exfoliate regularly, avoid shaving too closely, and consider trimming rather than a clean shave in sensitive areas.

Anatomy & clinical notes

Relevant anatomy: when shaving intimate areas be aware of regional differences in skin thickness, follicle density and innervation. See the anatomy pages for Pubic hair and Body Hair for background.
Sensitive sites (bikini line, perineum, underarms) are more prone to razor burn, folliculitis and micro‑abrasions; take extra caution and avoid aggressive techniques.
Post-procedure abrasions may create transient micro-breaks in the skin barrier—use antiseptic aftercare for open nicks and avoid sexual activity for 24 hours if the area is raw.

Preparation & aftercare

Soften skin with warm water and a gentle cleanser.
Use a lubricant and shave in the direction of growth when irritation is a concern.
Moisturise after shaving and apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion.
If ingrown hairs occur, follow prevention and treatment guidance in Ingrown Hair.

Writing tips

Use shaving to signal ritual, haste, intimacy or vulnerability. Small practical details (the hiss of the razor, the feel of lather, the sting of a nick) ground scenes.
Prioritise the female perspective: describe bodily sensations and emotions (relief, ritual shame, care) rather than objectifying.
Consider sexual-health context: shaving the pubic area changes friction and temperature; some characters feel more confident, others exposed.

Example

"She lathered her legs, the razor moving in sure, economical strokes; the bathroom tile felt cold under her feet when she rinsed the blade and smiled at the smooth skin."

Why it works: sensory detail and internal state create intimacy.