Shaving may require tough skin and a light hand

A few weeks ago I wrote a blog with the topic of shaving the genital area. The subject sparked a lot of interest among my readers. I received many messages with questions and comments. Earlier today a reader told me she wanted to tell me a story about 'shaving.' She and her husband were celebrating their anniversary with a romantic vacation out of town. Parents of three kids, they were anxious to reconnect as grown ups, especially in the bedroom. When they arrived at their quiet destination with reconnecting on their mind, her husband told her he had done something for her but he wouldn't tell her what it was...not yet, not until after their massage..

Later, she finally demanded that he tell her what surprise he had for her. He opened his robe and she saw that he had shaven his groin area. Flabbergasted, she asked, "Why did you do that?" He said, "I wanted to be romantic. Problem is, you can't touch me." She looked at him and asked, "Why?" She examined him closer and he had cut himself bloody on his testicles and they were too tender to touch. Apparently, it was his first time shaving in that area.

I've heard from a lot of men that when it comes to shaving they're intimidated.

Bringing a sharp instrument anywhere remotely close to the genitals takes a brave hearted person...at least the first few times. Practice makes perfect. Manscaping can become an easy task. I'm not a man, so that eliminates me from understanding what it's like to manscape, but man or woman, the concept and preparation is the same.

 I'd suggest you ask your partner to take the task and help you out, but sometimes that's not an option. So, the first time, you're going to want to do it in the bathroom for easy clean up. I've heard men say it's easier to shave when they're laying on their back. I'm going to throw out some handy dandy tips for those who are afraid to take the first step and take care of the bush.

1. Buy a beard or hair trimmer. For first timers, this is an important step that you won't want to skip.

 Trim with the closest blade you have and cut hair as short as you can.




2. Time to begin. A double-bladed razor works best. I'd suggest using a new one each time. For the first time, you'll need shaving cream. After that, you won't have to use it unless you choose to (but you won't be able to lie down in bed and shave because it'll be too messy). Also, you're going to need privacy for at least a good hour. You don't want to rush the procedure. Just think of the consequences of a slip...eck! You may even want to shave right after a soak in the tub, which makes the process easier.

Lather up with a good quality shaving cream. Try an antibacterial one that will help in the prevention of infected or ingrown hairs. You may want a clear gel so you can see the area that you're shaving.

3. Shave the area first in the same direction of hair growth, in short, taut sections. The skin is loose down there and you will slice yourself into a scary movie if you're not careful. Hold the skin taut so there is no flapping or moving. Then, shave in the opposite direction. Don't over shave, therefore you have less risk of ingrown hairs.

4. Hold the penis downward and shave from base to navel.

5. When you're done, wash with a gentle soap. Gentle pat the area with a towel. Don't rub because you'll cause more irritation.

Warning!! The first few times will cause irritation. It'll itch and people will think you have a case of crabs for a few days. If you like it shaven, it's better to shave every two days, or as needed. It's easier to keep it trimmed too if you want to let the hair grow back some.