Shaving armpits. Something that is actually taken for granted with women is even different with men. After all, what is that tuft of grass under the arms really for? Why shouldn't all men just shave it off? On certain parts of the body we are largely in agreement. Think about the legs, as a man you really just stay away from those. Unless you're a cyclist or bodybuilder, of course.
Why men have armpit hair is not yet known for sure. It is thought that it was used to attract a partner. In your armpit are many apocrine glands that produce sweat. This sweat contains all kinds of information conveyed through smell. The hairs hold these odors so it can be transmitted to attract a potential mate. Of course, if it were that easy now, there would be no doubt and every man would walk with a full head of hair under his arms.
Why then there are still several groups of men who leave it (partially) or shave it anyway, there are several explanations.
Reasons to shave your armpits
Hygiene
Surely the most important argument for men is hygiene. Because when you have armpit hair, you sweat more in that area because of the heat. Also, the smell that sweat leaves behind remains in the hair. When you have washed, it is also more difficult to apply your deodorant properly. Especially for men who play sports, this is a major reason to shave their armpits.
For women
For women, having unkempt bunches of hair under your arms is a major turn-off. It doesn't look neat, nor does it make a fresh impression.
Comfort
Especially during the warmer days, a common reason for men to do something about their armpit hair is that it feels a lot more comfortable. You sweat less and when you sweat you don't notice it as much. It feels a lot more airy under your arms.
Reason not to shave your armpits
It looks more masculine
Well, let's face it. A bald mess doesn't look very manly. And that's where women come in again. We know, we're not making it any easier for you. But there is also a large group of women who reject bare armpits. It would not be masculine. What to do then? If you are really worried about this, the best thing to do is to choose the middle way. Trim the armpit hair. Not a bunch, but not a bald patch either.
The hormones
The substances and odors given off under the armpits have a pheromone-like effect. This means that it can cause a woman to be attracted to you or even excited by you. This dates back to the primeval days when we attracted partners with our scent rather than smooth opening phrases. When you shave your armpits smooth, those hormones are less likely to stay under your armpits.
To shave or not to shave underarms as a man?
So which is best? We think you should mostly do what you do yourself a favor. You can try it at least once to see how you like it. Your hair will grow back, it's true!
Possibly go the middle way: trim your armpits
If you'd rather not go for the bald armpit after all, you can always trim your armpits. The middle ground that is acceptable to almost everyone. Trimming is very easy to do by anyone with clippers. The easiest way is to use special small clippers that are a lot more precise.
It is best to do this dry before showering. Unless you have a trimmer that is water resistant and can also be used in the shower. Have you never done anything to your armpit hair before? Then always start with the head for the longest hair. Once you've done that you can go shorter and shorter.
How can you shave your armpit hair?
If you decide to go for the comfortably smooth armpit then the best thing to do is shave them. However, this is a job that requires a little more attention than trimming. That's why we explain the most important steps.
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Trim
When you first start shaving your armpits, it is important to trim them first. There is no razor that will get through your jungle. So trim your armpit hairs first.
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Wash before shaving
Washing before shaving your armpits is important to prevent dirt from getting into the pores while shaving. Also try to scrub your armpits occasionally to remove dead skin cells. If you don't do this, the pore opening can get closed and you are much more likely to have ingrown hairs.
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Shave during or right after showering
Warm water softens armpit hairs and provides more moisture to charge the razor across the skin. Do you only find it irritating in the shower? Then do it right after showering when the hairs are still soft.
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Use a gentle shaving cream
The skin under the armpits is very sensitive. So it is really necessary to use a shaving cream. By a gentle shaving cream, we mean one that contains no or no chemicals and thus is kind to the skin.
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Use a sharp blade
The biggest cause of post-shave irritation or poor results is using a blunt blade. For your underarms, just make sure you use a new blade every time. If necessary, use a safety razor if you already have some experience with it. That way you save on new blades and have an even smoother result.
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Walk rather than sprint
Don't make it a rush job. Underarms are very sensitive. There is a high risk of wounds or irritation. Get to work in peace and above all, do not put pressure on the razor. Even then, it won't cost you too much time.
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Use an aftershave balm if necessary.
If you are prone to irritated underarm skin, you could also use an aftershave balm after shaving. This will soften and moisturize the skin, leaving it feeling soft after shaving. Use a aftershave balm without alcohol. After that, wait a while before applying deodorant. Let it soak in first.