HOW TO SHAVE DOWN THERE

One of the early signs of puberty is the appearance of hairs around the pubic area and armpits. Many adolescents welcome this with excitement because it is a sign that they are becoming big girls and boys.

"Shaving down there" is a personal grooming choice. You do it when and how you choose. 
Hairs are appendages of the integumentary system which is made up of keratin. As hair begins to grow, they increase in number and coarseness.

Pubic hairs must not be shaved but some people find it hygienic to shave. According to the New York-based Dermatologist, Dr. Nadia Kihiczak,  "Pubic hair forms a protective barrier for the underlying delicate skin. It is believed to fend off pathogens, like bacteria and viruses, and is a shield for the skin from friction during sex. It also forms a natural cushion to the sensitive skin in the pubic area,"

Contrary to the very old myth that hair regrows faster and more coarser, a Dermatologist with Mayo Clinic - Dr. Lawrence E. Gibson answered that "Shaving hair doesn't change its thickness, color or rate of growth" In fact, this myth was debunked since 1928 by a clinical trial.

Depending on how fast your hair grows and how you want it down there, you may choose to shave daily, weekly, or monthly. Below are some guidelines on how to go about that

Firstly: Gather the necessary supplies:

1. Sharp razor: Use a fresh, clean razor specifically designated for the pubic area. Consider using a razor with multiple blades to ensure a closer shave.
2.Shaving cream or gel: Apply a generous amount of shaving cream or gel to the area to be shaved. Choose a product that is designed for sensitive skin to minimize irritation.
3. Mirror: If necessary, have a mirror handy to help you see some hard-to-reach areas.

Secondly: Take the following steps

1. Trim the hair: Use scissors or an electric trimmer with a guard to trim the hair to a shorter length before shaving. This step helps make the shaving process easier and prevents the razor from getting clogged. You can shave off your armpits without trimming because it may be difficult navigating around there, and the hairs there are not so coarse except if grown for long.

2. Clean and Exfoliate: shaving a clean armpit and pubic area is easier and better than shaving a dirty one. Be sure that no form of dirt is around the shaving area. 
Gently exfoliate the area using a mild exfoliating scrub or a soft washcloth. This helps remove dead skin cells and reduces the risk of ingrown hairs.

3. Sharp razor could be dangerous, but it serves better: using an old or blunt razor would increase friction. You should use a new sharp blade, but carefully to avoid cuts. You cannot afford an injury down there.

4. Make sure the hair is moist: moist hair is easier to shave as the razor or shaving blade moves smoother. You can use a shaving gel or use your bathing soap to form a lather.

5. Start with the direction of hair growth: Begin shaving in the direction of hair growth to minimize the chances of irritation and ingrown hairs. This will usually mean shaving downward for the pubic area.

6. Wash everything off and apply moisturizer: washing the lather down gives you a clear view of your shaving skills. If you are good, then you need to wash the area well and apply alcohol-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel to soothe the freshly shaved skin.
If you still need to do some finishing touches, then do that and apply the moisturizer.

7. Try to avoid tight clothing: Wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing for a day or two after shaving to allow the skin to breathe and reduce friction.

Dry shaving is also an alternative method of shaving though it comes with some side effects like cuts and nicks, dry flaky skin, itching, folliculitis, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. These side effects make some go for wet shaving. But it is the same with the wet shaving, except you don't wet the hair.

Conclusively, remember everyone's skin is different, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust your shaving routine accordingly. If you experience any persistent irritation, razor burn, or discomfort, you may want to consider alternative hair removal methods or consult a dermatologist for further advice.