Painful bumps, itchy irritated skin, and hyperpigmentation are common frustrations for those who prefer a hairless bikini area. Ingrown hairs and razor bumps are not only uncomfortable but also unsightly. As someone who aims for a smooth, redness-free bikini line, I developed a shave routine that delivers results. The key player? Bevel, a men's grooming brand that has become my go-to since 2016. Here is my current shave routine, step by step, with product adjustments over time.
1. Exfoliate with a Bathing Net
First, I cleanse and gently exfoliate my body using soap and the exfoliating bath sponge from That Good Good Shea. Exfoliation lifts hairs for a closer shave, and I never skip this step. The bathing net is gentle yet effective, preventing overworked or irritated skin. It is easy to clean by tossing it in the washing machine with towels and letting it air dry. Even when not shaving, it remains a shower staple. Available in blue, gold, or purple on Amazon for $15.
2. Apply a Budget-Friendly Shaving Cream
Next, I apply Barbasol Men's Shaving Cream to my bikini line or other shaving areas. At under $3 for 10 ounces, it is cheaper than many women's shave creams and works just as well. The thick, creamy formula feels luxurious despite the low price. While I initially used Bevel's shave cream, I found this alternative more cost-effective. Available at Target and Walmart for $3, or non-aerosol at Amazon for $7.49.
3. Use a Reusable Safety Razor
The main event is Bevel's men's safety razor, featuring a brass handle in three pieces for easy disassembly and cleaning. To replace blades, I twist the handle counterclockwise, detach the plate and head, and drop a new blade onto the head. The handle screws back onto the plate with the big circle outline facing upward. The weighted design allows for effortless gliding without pressure. I have had this razor for nearly a decade, and it remains in excellent condition. Priced at $50 at Target and Amazon.
4. Pair with Sharp Blades for a Close Shave
Bevel blades provide a smooth, close shave without agitating skin or causing ingrown hairs. The double-edged design cuts hair precisely, reducing the risk of hairs becoming trapped under the skin. The blades are very sharp, so caution is needed to avoid nicks, though I have only experienced minor cuts. Blades are single-use and should be discarded after each shower, but one blade suffices for bikini area, underarms, and legs. A pack of 20 refillable blades costs $10 at Amazon and Target.
5. Apply Tend Skin to Reduce Irritation
Between shaves, I dab a few drops of Tend Skin solution on newly shaved areas to prevent ingrown hairs and razor bumps. After showering and drying, I apply it to my bikini line and sometimes legs. I use it daily until regrowth is substantial, especially during summer when shaving weekly. Tend Skin is for external use only, so apply only to shaved skin. A little goes a long way, and it costs $20 at Amazon or $25 at Target.
6. Hydrate with a Body Oil Mist
Finally, I use a non-comedogenic serum or body oil for hydration. Currently, I use Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Oil Mist. Since Tend Skin can be drying, I follow up with this lightweight, jojoba oil-infused mist, spraying it in my hand first and dabbing on my bikini line. It leaves a glowy finish. Available at Amazon for $10 and Target for $13.
This routine, originally published on HuffPost, has kept my skin smooth and bump-free for years.
