Getting rid of hair in intimate areas is an activity more than popular. Thus, the editorial team of the American edition of Men’s Health, surveying over a thousand respondents, found out The State of the American Penis Survey : hair on the penis and testicles is periodically removed by 62% of men. However, not all do it right — and then suffer. Perhaps not for too long, but thoroughly.
Why shave the penis and scrotum
There is no practical need to shave hair from the penis and testicles. However, trimming the pubic hair is indeed justified. The hair there is thick, the skin beneath it easily sweats, and the sweat here comes from apocrine sweat glands. A little physical exertion — the groin starts to smell unpleasant: both from the hair and from the waste products of bacteria, which thrive in wet vegetation. In general, purely for hygienic reasons, the pubic area should be trimmed.
But the penis and scrotum are a completely different matter. Firstly, there is quite a little hair there. Secondly, there are also significantly fewer apocrine glands than in the pubic area. Therefore, shaving the testicles and penis is a procedure that is more aesthetic than one that carries any hygienic meaning.
However, smoothness and beauty are also a worthy reason to shave. Just keep in mind that this desire sometimes comes with unpleasant side effects.
Why you should not shave the penis and scrotum
Because you are highly likely to get what is known as a “pineapple penis” in your pants. According to the definition Pineapple Penis from Urban Dictionary, a popular slang dictionary in English, “pineappleness” occurs when a man completely shaves hair in the intimate area and then it starts to grow back. Visually, it resembles the prickly surface of a tropical fruit, hence the name.
After shaving, the penis and testicles prick and itch, and this lasts for 1–2 weeks until the hair grows back. But “pineappleness” is not the only side effect.
46% of men have injured themselves while grooming their intimate areas at least once. This is reported by Manscaping: a detailed look into mowing your personal lawn an online study involving over 1,200 respondents.
Here are the main troubles that shaving the penis and scrotum can lead to (however, similar consequences can also arise from hair removal in the pubic area):
- Cuts. They are not only painful but can also be channels for infection.
- Ingrown hairs (pseudofolliculitis). They often come with inflammation and the formation of unaesthetic, pus-filled pimples.
- Skin irritation.
In general, quite a high price to pay for the luxury of boasting perfectly smooth skin. However, there are ways to minimize the risk. About them — below.
How to shave the penis and scrotum if you still want to
The most sensible and safe way to get rid of hair in this area is to go to a beauty salon that provides such a service. But of course — it’s embarrassing. And also not cheap.
If you have decided to work on the beauty of the penis and testicles with your own hands, follow certain safety rules.
1. Buy a separate razor for intimate areas
Under no circumstances shave the penis with the same razor that you use on your face or armpits. There are bacteria in the intimate area that are not found on other parts of the body, and it is better not to transfer them.
2. Shorten hair with scissors or a trimmer before shaving
Long hair is harder to shave. They can get stuck in the blade and increase the risk of cuts. In general, trim them to about 1 cm in height beforehand.
3. Take a warm bath or shower
The heat relaxes the tiny muscles attached to the hair follicles and also softens the hair.
4. Use shaving oil
Apply it to the testicles and penis, and only after that use your usual cream or foam. The oil will make the skin smoother and the shaving softer.
5. Shave the hair in stages
By sections, pulling the skin tight on each of them. Any wrinkle or bump — and a cut is practically guaranteed.
A little life hack: if you can’t pull the skin tight, stimulate an erection. This will make the surface smooth.
6. Don’t rush, be careful
One awkward or hasty movement — and you will have to put a bandage on the intimate area. Or even more than one.
Don’t forget to clean the razor from accumulated hair as often as possible.
7. Be prepared for cuts
They can occur, even if you are super careful. In this case, rinse the injured area with warm soapy water, disinfect (for example, with chlorhexidine), and place a piece of toilet paper on top to stop the bleeding.
Attention! If the blood continues to flow even after 10 minutes or pulses in jets, call an ambulance. Deep cuts may require stitching.
8. When you are done, rinse the penis and testicles with cool water
A cool shower will tighten the pores and reduce the risk of irritation. Then pat the shaved area dry with a soft towel.
9. Apply lotion or aftershave balm
Ideally — with aloe extract or camphor. Such a product will help moisturize the skin and again reduce the risk of irritation.
Use lotion or balm after your morning and evening showers for at least 2–3 days after shaving.
10. Be prepared for irritation and itching
Unfortunately, neither attentiveness during shaving nor care afterward will protect you from this. If a few days after the procedure the skin continues to itch, and especially if inflammation and pus-filled spots appear on it, be sure to consult a dermatologist. The doctor will prescribe you suitable treatment.
