Men's Life Today: Expert Q+A

Quite a few muscle guys at my gym have shaven armpits. I'm pretty well cut myself, so I'm considering adopting this look. But I'm wondering, Are shaven armpits itchy and uncomfortable? Could I, and should I, just trim? And how would that feel?

It’s not just the muscle guys at your gym deforesting their pits. Have you seen an NBA game recently? These days, it seems like everyone who has to occasionally go sleeveless (or shirtless) is opting to reach for the razor to mow his pits.

But to answer your question, yes, shaven armpits might be itchy and uncomfortable at first. Women (at least the ones on this side of the Atlantic) have simply gotten used to the sensation because they’ve been doing it since they hit puberty. (Isn’t it amazing what they endure to look good for you?)

There are, however, ways to reduce irritation and prevent ingrown hairs in shaven armpits. Using a creamy deodorant or -- if you have extreme itchiness -- a topical hydrocortisone cream can help.

Next, when it comes to maintenance, the same rules that apply to your facial hair also apply to pits: If you’re prone to dark stubble (probably because you have light skin and dark hair), you’ll have to shave every day or every other day to keep your shaven armpits looking smooth and clean.

And as for trimming, it’s simply a matter of what you want to achieve. Most guys trim their armpit hair to reduce sweat and unpleasant odor, not to get a silky smooth beach-ready look. Go ahead and try both to see which one you like better. It’s not like it won’t grow back.