Bikini bumps are probably any bikini-wearing chica's nightmare during the summer. Not only are razor burns, bumps and ingrown hair pretty unattractive (especially when you're heading to the beach), but they're also really annoying and itchy. But let's face it, leaving hair in your bikini line is absolutely NOT acceptable! Fortunately there are ways to combat the bumps, leaving your skin smooth and irritation-free.
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In fact, there are a number of things you can do from investing in a couple of good products to even whipping up some of abuelita's old school beauty remedies. So before you decide to skip out on swimming, check out a few of my tips below. Trust me these ingown-hair busting tips really work!
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Try waxing
I recently had a Brazilian wax done and I have to tell you, it left my bikini line smooth and bump-free for weeks. Can’t afford to hit the spa every so often? Then try doing it yourself with an at-home treatment like Veet Easy Wax Electrical Roll-On Kit ($35). This self-heating device is insanely easy to use. Just heat it up, roll on, and then wax off the hair for a clean finish that can last you up to 28 days!
Get a clean shave
If you prefer shaving, make sure you let the hairs grow at least a quarter of an inch long. Otherwise you’re just going to wind up shaving over stubble which is what leads to razor bumps and irritation. Make sure to use a good, clean blade too. Try the Gillette Venus & Olay Exfoliating Razor Kit in Sugarberry ($10).
Use shaving cream
Use an ultra-moisturizing shaving cream that’s going to keep your bikini line smooth. I like Kiss My Face Moisture Shave in Key Lime ($5). It contains olive and coconut oil to keep skin hydrated and the antiseptic peppermint creates a cooling effect.
Avoid ingrown hair
You can prevent ingrown hairs by applying a tea tree ointment after shaving. It works as a natural anti-inflammatory, helps smooth skin, and clears up break outs. You can find this at any natural food store or botanica. Or just try The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil ($6).
Try aloe vera
My abuelita always used to apply aloe vera on her skin after shaving because of its natural calming effects. It instantly gets rid of any redness or inflammation. Applying natural aloe to your skin is the most effective, but you can also try a body cream that contains it, like Jason 84% Aloe Vera Pure Natural Hand & Body Lotion ($6).
Use razor bump pads
These Completely Bare Bikini Bump Blaster Pads ($10) are pure genius! They’re filled with glycolic and salicylic acid that not only prevent ingrown hairs, but also help buff away dead skin cells that can lead to bumps and burns.
Exfoliate
Try exfoliating your bikini line using a body scrub and a wash mitt or loofah. Try the Bliss Lemon + Sage Body Scub Velvety-Soft Skin Polish ($36). It helps keep skin smooth and bump-free.