According to a recent poll by a major men’s magazine, that smooth look “” especially in the armpit region “” isn’t just reserved for swimmers anymore.
Men’s Health asked its readers to chime in on the new-age question: Do you manscape your armpits? Nearly seven in 10 readers said, yes, they do at least trim that jungle region and contrary to conventional wisdom only 16 percent of respondents claimed to shave for athletic reasons.
Do you ever wonder why we have hair there in the first place? Well, so do scientists. For years, it was common belief that armpit hair was a natural adaptation to fight against friction as our arms move. Anatomists have largely discounted that theory, however. It also may have been an evolutionary step to help siphon moisture away from the delicate skin there.
Another thought that has gained popularity in recent years is that hair trapped the sweaty musk smells that once helped man attract a mate. While that may have one time been an advantage, it’s hard to imagine that as a benefit today.
Getting rid of that tangle can still be tricky for guys, however. Women have mastered the art for a long time, while we fellas are still depilatory newbies. So, here are a few tips for getting smooth, or at least a little less caveman-esque:
Ignore the temptation of creams like Nair or waxing. In case you haven’t noticed, the skin under your arms is incredible sensitive. Creams that remove hair tend to do it by burning it off with acidic mixtures. That could leave you with acid burns if used incorrectly. Waxing should also be a non-starter if you’ve seen “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.”
If you’re taking it all off, exfoliate first. Scrubbing the area will get rid of dead skin, allowing for a closer shave, say men’s grooming experts.
Get wet. You wouldn’t dry-shave your face ““ you shouldn’t dry-shave your pits, either. Hot water and shaving cream greatly reduce the chances of a nick. They also soften hairs, making for an easier shave. Shaving should also be the final stage of your shower. Give that hot water a chance to work its magic before you move in with a blade.
Don’t be cheap. Disposable razors are a good tool for the job, but choose one with a pivoting head and multiple blades. Most importantly, because armpit hair is so coarse, but don’t plan on reusing a blade more than two or three times. Shaving with a dulled blade increases the chances for nicks and causing ingrown hairs.
If you’re just trimming, don’t cut it too short. You should leave it at least three-quarters of an inch long, else you’ll be feeling the sharp hair tips until it grows out again.
Remember the aftercare. Again, you wouldn’t think of forgoing some lotion or aftershave after raking your chin stubble. Why should this be different? Just make sure the product you use is alcohol-free. (Remember: That’s sensitive skin.)
Finally, shave at night. Another men’s magazine, GQ, suggests nocturnal shaves that allow you to lotion up and let your skin recover overnight.