Bikini season has well and truly arrived, so let's not beat around the bush: it's time to tackle your unwanted body hair.
While you know that removing your pubic hair a personal choice - and there's absolutely nothing wrong with leaving things au naturel - if you do want to neaten up down there, shaving is the simple option for smooth skin.
So when it comes to shaving the intimate skin around your vulva and bikini area, it's extremely important to get the basics right to avoid causing any bumps, ingrown hairs or angry red skin.
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If you're shaving for the first time (or the first time in a while), it's a good idea to start by trimming some of the longer pubic hairs with a sharp pair of scissors before you begin shaving.
You could have a soak in the bath too, if you have time, which will help soften the outer layer of your skin, making it easier to remove hair (and lessen your chances of getting razor burn).
It's important to remember that when it comes to shaving your intimate skin and pubic hair, you need to be mindful that it's a delicate area, so you'll need to treat it kindly.
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Using a quality, clean, sharp razor should be top of your list, and will make any irritation from shaving less likely. And make sure you only shave in one direction, with the hair growth, to avoid causing razor bumps.
"In general, it's best to avoid soaps on the intimate skin, particularly if fragranced, as this can disrupt the naturally acidic pH," says health expert, Dr Frankie Jackson-Spence.
If you're not sure where to start, try Femfresh Soothing Wash which contains probiotics to help stimulate skin's natural defences and also works to gently hydrate your skin. The formula is also pH balanced and ideal for using on intimate areas.
Words by Delicia Smith.