Other bikini trimmers we tested
Finishing Touch Flawless Bikini Shaver and Trimmer
Original image by Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary
- What we love: Useful for tight spots and touch-ups; has built-in light; affordable
- What could improve: Cannot be used on wet skin; may leave razor bumps; not waterproof
This itsy-bitsy bikini-hair-removal device has an angled head and a built-in light designed to help you touch up those tight spots that your razor or a bulkier trimmer can’t reach. The bikini-line trimmer comes with an attachment that pops over the top of the groomer and lets you control how close of a trim you achieve. It’s a simple, straightforward device, meant to only be used on dry skin.
Our reviewer says: In my newfound love for bikini trimmers, I gave this pick a whirl to help trim thick, coarse hairs along my bikini line. I like that this trimmer has a light, which makes it super easy to really see where you’re going and what you’re doing (which is kind of important when you have a sharp metal object so close to a sensitive area). I did not love, however, the angle of this one. I’m left handed, and while you can flip the device to use it in the same direction, I do think it would be more comfortable to use as a righty. While the shave itself was gentle and quick, it did leave a few razor bumps behind. I think this pick is a great option if you’re looking for something affordable and under $20, but I may just stick with my Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover which I can’t get enough of! —A.M.K.
Includes: Razor, trimming guide attachment, cleaning brush, battery | Rechargeable: No (requires one AAA battery, included) | Waterproof: No
Panasonic Bikini Trimmer and Shaver
Original image by Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs
- What we love: Lightweight; includes a shaver head; travel-friendly
- What could improve: Confusing directions; tricky to maneuver; not a very close shave
The Panasonic trimmer’s the one you toss in your toiletry kit and grab when you need a touch-up along your bikini line (though not the rest of your body). It’s cordless, super lightweight (under 3 ounces), and gentle on sensitive skin, and it can be used wet or dry. It comes with a rounded trimmer head that shears through longer, thicker hair, as well as a smaller, more precise shaver head that offers a closer shave (down to 1 mm).
Our reviewer says: Initially, I was impressed with how light the Panasonic was, sleek, and portable. I appreciated that it came with two different trimming length attachments, as well as a shaver head. However, the directions were confusing and vague with little explanation as to how to use the attachments. The shaver head cracked into two pieces when I tried to attach it to the body. I got it to pop back together, but found it didn’t seem to cut my hair any more finely than the two trimmer attachments, which is kind of the point of a shaver, isn’t it? The shape of the Panasonic was unwieldy, and I struggled to crop the bikini line in particular. —M.G.
Includes: Razor, shaver head, trimmer head, comb attachment, skin guard | Rechargeable: No (requires one AA battery, not included) | Waterproof: Yes
Your questions about bikini trimmers, answered
Is bikini trimming better than shaving?
There’s no right answer, really. “If you’re looking to trim your hair a certain length, bikini trimmers will give you a more accurate result,” says Elizabeth Maul, group insights and innovation officer at Bic. Razors, on the other hand, will give you a smoother, closer, and cleaner shave (as will waxing, if you’re aiming for that full-on hairless look). Regardless of which route you choose, Maul suggests keeping two things in mind: Make sure that your razor or trimmer is sharp (not blunt) and clean. A blunt razor can lead to cutting, and dirty tools can lead to infections. You’ll also want to be sure you exfoliate before and after hair removal.
How to prevent ingrown hairs
“Ingrown hairs are often inevitable but can be prevented two ways: prepping the skin properly and using the right tools,” says Maul. “The best trimmers (or shavers) to avoid ingrown hairs are those designed to glide easily across the skin and that prevent hair buildup.” When blades get clogged, they tug at the hairs, making it challenging to get a smooth shave—which lead to ingrown hairs. You’ll want to be sure you clean your trimmer (more on that below) and also that you invest in a good bikini-line exfoliator.
How to prep your skin for bikini trimming
Skin prep is crucial to a smooth shave. Experts recommend exfoliating your skin before any sort of hair removal (be it trimming, shaving, or waxing) by at least a day—and again one to two days following removal. Doing so removes dead skin, softens the area, and makes it easier for the blades to glide—ultimately helping prevent cuts, razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and other irritations. If you’re using the trimmer on wet skin or hair, soak the area in warm water for a few minutes first.
How to use a bikini trimmer
Some bikini trimmers are meant to be used only on dry skin and hair—and some can be used wet. The trimmer is designed to give your pubic area a haircut (and not to totally remove hair). Removing hair for the first time in a long while? Consider trimming back your pubes with grooming scissors before getting started with the electric tool.
Adjust the trimmer’s guides according to just how close of a cut you want. The trimmer’s comb protects the razor from fully touching your skin and causing any sort of pain. Once it’s turned on, you can gently move the trimmer’s comb in slow, short strokes across the bikini area. When you’re done shaving, pat your legs dry and apply body lotion or body oil to keep your skin hydrated.
How to clean your bikini trimmer
Brush away stray hairs after use (either with the trimmer’s included brush or a dry toothbrush). This prevents clogging (which can lead to razor bumps and skin irritation). If the trimmer is water-resistant, rinse it off, then wipe it down with a clean paper towel.
