razor

I've always wondered if men's razors were better than women's. While ours may need to be used around our more (ok, most) sensitive areas, theirs ought to be more user friendly and have less margin for error, as many men shave every day and can't hide any shaving mishaps simply by keeping their pants on. So when I saw Gillette's new battery-operated Fusion Power Phenom Razor, which not only has five blades and a built-in precision trimmer but also a low-battery indicator light (what is this, a razor or an iPod?), I had to give it a go.

At first, I was impressed with the pivot on the blade — I could get a lot closer around my ankles and knees, where I always seem to miss hairs. But somehow as I got further north, first around my upper thighs and underarms, the razor stopped gliding as well (I used a little body wash as shave gel — it is unclear what product, if any, you are meant to use with it). And when I got out of the shower, I was stubbly, even below the knees. So, here's the verdict: The Fusion Power Phenom Razor may be the best a man can get, but as I should have known, a woman can get even better. Want more reviews? Read others or write your own.

For those of you who have sensitive skin, most likely your face isn't the only part of your body that suffers from redness and reactions. I find that if I'm not careful about changing my razor blade frequently, or if I don't use ample amounts of lubrication such as shaving cream or moisturizing body washes, my legs, underarms and even bikini area often burned and become pink and swollen. Here are a few of my favorite sensitive skin shavers that have helped tremendously reduce inflammation and irritation — hopefully they'll be able to help you too.

Gillette Venus Divine ($9.99) has blades that are coated with aloe and plant oil infused moisture strips so that they will glide over your skin easily. The blades are also positioned so that each one cuts lower than the next. This results in fewer missed hairs and a closer shave.

The razor also features an ergonomic no-slip grip, a finger rest for better control, a wall hanger for in-shower wall storage and shower-safe refills (how convenient).

For two more sensitive skin shavers for females, read more

Shaving your armpits isn't just for summertime, and you probably shave them as much as your legs. But your underarm skin is really sensitive, and because you sweat, it's a breeding ground for bacteria.

You've probably been a victim of little red spots, but here's some tips to battle those bumps.

• Wash your armpits (and the rest of your body while you're at it) after exercising.
• Toss your dull razors - they can cause major irritation.
• Try not to keep your razor in the shower - it ups the chance for bacteria to grow on your blade, which leads to those annoying bumps.
• Clean your razor after each use with a quick dip in some rubbing alcohol.
• Toss your disposable razor or blade after 3 uses.

Hope these tips help you look fabulous in your strapless New Year's Eve gown.