The Gillette Venus Gentle Trimmer Replaced My Bikini Wax — Here's Why

It's impossible to forget your first bikini wax. Between a stranger staring down your nether regions and warm wax entering uncharted territory, the hair removal service is often a memorable experience even before the pain begins. Despite the discomfort of waxing, it's been my go-to way to remove pubic hair for years. The results last longer than shaving, and I don't have to deal with razor burn. 

Unlike razors, bikini trimmers cut the hair follicle to a preset length. You won't get a close shave but rather a precise trim. The final groomed look leaves hair visible but it's all a uniform length, and you can always use a razor in select areas to remove any signs of your pubes (if that's your personal preference).

As someone who grooms in the shower, I needed a waterproof design. It was also important to me that any trimmer used in my bikini area was specifically created with the sensitive area in mind. The Gillette Venus Gentle Trimmer met both criteria and was less than $30, making it my ideal choice.

I first tested the trimmer about 45 days ago ahead of a trip to Florida (and a bathing suit). I opted to use the device without the plastic comb for a closer trim. Although I was worried about an increased risk of nicks from the blades without the guard, I quickly discovered the slim shape was easy to manipulate into every nook and cranny—and there was nothing to fear. In fact, I've yet to cut myself even after more than a month of use.

Once in place, the automatic blades easily snipped away excess length without tugging strands or pinching the skin. While I was initially alarmed by a spout of water squirting out the edge of the blades, I quickly realized it was the device removing excess water to stay operational. When I was done, the leftover pubes looked groomed and uniform. The entire process including the bum took less than three minutes and lasted a few days.

Luckily, cleaning the bikini trimmer was just as simple as using it. The head fully opens, which allows you to remove any stuck hairs or dump out any trapped water. When cleaned, the device's flat base and minimal footprint make it easy to store in a medicine cabinet or similarly compact space—although I'd also argue it's aesthetic enough to leave on your bathroom counter.