How to Shave or Trim Your Armpit Hair

Co-authored by Dedra Allen and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: December 12, 2022 Approved

Removing underarm hair can help reduce body odor and is a cultural norm in many places. Some athletes, such as swimmers, remove body hair to improve performance. Shaving is one of the most efficient and low-cost ways to remove underarm hair. The most common methods include using a safety razor or an electric shaver. Using a straight razor is not recommended.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using A Safety Razor

1
Prepare your skin. It is often easiest to shave in the shower or during a bath. Water will soften the skin while the warmth will prevent goosebumps, which can get cut while shaving.^{[1]
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2
Apply a moisturizing lubricant. Commercially produced shaving gel, lotion or foam can help soften the skin and make a smoother shave possible. Soap, shampoo, or conditioner may be adequate substitutes.
- Cover the entire area with a generous amount of lubricant.
- If necessary, soap or gel can be reapplied partway through the shaving process.
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3
Raise one arm over your head. When the skin is taut, it is easier to get a smooth shave and prevent cuts.
4
Begin shaving. Hold the razor in your other hand and start by shaving in the direction of hair growth. If your skin is sensitive, shaving against the grain can result in razor burn. If sensitivity is not an issue, shave both up and down, as underarm hair may grow in several different directions.^{[2]
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- Avoid pressing the razor too firmly against your skin, as this can result in razor burn.
5
Rinse the razor after each stroke. For the smoothest shave it is best to remove foam and cut hair strands.
- Do not attempt to dislodge hair or otherwise clean the razor with your fingers. You will cut them.
6
Repeat on the other armpit. It may take some practice to use your weaker hand to shave, but over time this will become easier.
7
Complete the shaving process. Rinse under both arms to remove any remaining foam or loose hair. The skin is likely to be sensitive, so consider using a gentle moisturizer after you dry off.
- Deodorants may sting if applied immediately after shaving.
- Consider shaving at night to allow the skin to rest and heal before applying any products.
- If irritation or inflammation persists consult a dermatologist or try a different process.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Using An Electric Razor

1
Identify the type of shaver. Some newer models can be used with wet or dry skin, but the typical electric razor is designed only for dry use. Review the packaging to be certain which kind of razor you have.
- If you are unsure, try dry shaving first.
- Electric appliances should never be used in the shower or bath. Wet shavers can be used on wet skin, but should not be used while you bathe.
2
Examine the shaving mechanism. If your razor has a rotary mechanism then it will be most effective if you move it in a circular motion. If it is a foil shaver then repeated back and forth strokes will provide the smoothest shave. Knowing in advance what type of motion to use will ensure a close shave and reduce the risk of cuts or abrasions.
3
Prepare your skin. You will get the smoothest shave if the hair is completely dry. Clean your underarm hair to remove oils or deodorant residue.^{[3]
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- Consider using a pre-shave product designed specifically for electric razors. These may be marketed to men to ease facial hair removal.
4
Keep the skin taut. Lift your arm in such a way that the skin underneath is as tight and smooth as possible. This will reduce the risk of skin becoming caught in the razor.
- Hold the electric shaver at a right angle to your skin.
- Shave against the grain of the hair. This may entail strokes in several different directions to ensure the closest shave.^{[4]
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5
Be patient. If you are just beginning to use an electric shaver your skin may be sensitive and irritated easily. After several weeks of consistent use this problem should self-resolve. If irritation persists, discontinue use or consult a dermatologist.
- If you have open cuts or severely irritated skin, wait until you have healed completely before trying to shave again.
6
Maintain the electric razor. Like most electrical products, shavers perform best when they are properly cared for. Replace worn out parts and clean the razor regularly.
- Use a soft cleaning brush to gently remove hair and other particles from the blades after each shave.
- Avoid tapping the razor against the sink or counter to remove hair as this may nick the blades or dull them.
- Over time the razor may become dull, adding to the risk of cuts. The owner’s manual will likely contain information about how to order and install replacement parts.
7
Try different products. Most electric shavers are designed for men to use on facial hair, which may be too powerful for soft underarm skin. If you try a shaver marketed to men and have problems, consider searching for a product marketed to women instead.^{[5]
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Expert Q&A

Question

Is it good to shave armpit hair?

Karina Villalta
Certified Esthetician
Karina Villalta is a certified Esthetician and Owner of Oh Sweet and Sugar and Shears, a skincare and hair removal service located in Seattle and Kirkland, Washington. With over eight years of experience, Karina specializes in eyebrow shaping, a hair removal technique called sugaring, and organic facials. Karina started her career and was trained at Benefit Cosmetics Brow Bar. Since opening her own business, Karina ensures her clients are educated about their skin and helps them implement personalized skincare routines.

Karina Villalta

Certified Esthetician

Expert Answer

It's totally a matter of personal preference. There's nothing intrinsically wrong with having armpit hair. It's natural, after all!
Question

Is it bad to shave your armpits a lot?

Karina Villalta
Certified Esthetician
Karina Villalta is a certified Esthetician and Owner of Oh Sweet and Sugar and Shears, a skincare and hair removal service located in Seattle and Kirkland, Washington. With over eight years of experience, Karina specializes in eyebrow shaping, a hair removal technique called sugaring, and organic facials. Karina started her career and was trained at Benefit Cosmetics Brow Bar. Since opening her own business, Karina ensures her clients are educated about their skin and helps them implement personalized skincare routines.

Karina Villalta

Certified Esthetician

Expert Answer

It can cause some irritation or razor burn if you aren't careful or you're shaving super often. This wouldn't normally be a huge deal though, and most people generally don't need to shave all that often.
Question

Are there any easier ways to get rid of armpit hair?

Karina Villalta
Certified Esthetician
Karina Villalta is a certified Esthetician and Owner of Oh Sweet and Sugar and Shears, a skincare and hair removal service located in Seattle and Kirkland, Washington. With over eight years of experience, Karina specializes in eyebrow shaping, a hair removal technique called sugaring, and organic facials. Karina started her career and was trained at Benefit Cosmetics Brow Bar. Since opening her own business, Karina ensures her clients are educated about their skin and helps them implement personalized skincare routines.

Karina Villalta

Certified Esthetician

Expert Answer

I'm super fond of sugaring or laser treatments for armpit hair. Sugaring involves heating sugar, water, and lemon juice and then working that into your skin to remove hair at the follicle. Laser treatments are done in a professional office or salon. Both of those are good options if you don't want to shave.