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Categories
Personal Care and Style
Personal Hygiene
Hair Removal
Shaving
How to Shave Your Own Back (Plus Other Hair Removal Options) Download Article Our guide to removing back hair without any help Co-authored by Melissa Jannes and Hannah Madden
Last Updated: July 1, 2024 Fact Checked
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Shaving Your Own Back
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This article was co-authored by Melissa Jannes and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in Pennsylvania. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 382,404 times.
Are you ready to take your manscaping to the next level? While there’s no rule saying you have to shave your back, it might be nice to have a clean slate for sports, swimming, or even a beach day. But if you’re scratching your head trying to figure out how you can reach a razor behind you, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll give you all the tips you need to shave your back yourself at home. Read on to get a perfectly smooth shave in no time!
Things You Should Know
Wet your skin with water and apply shaving cream.
Use a razor extender to shave those hard-to-reach areas on your back. Go slowly and make multiple passes over your entire back.
Rinse your back off with water, then apply moisturizer and sunscreen (if you’re going outside).
For more long-lasting hair removal options, look into hair removal creams, waxing, or laser hair removal.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Shaving Your Own Back
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1 Take a shower to wet your skin and soften your hair. Before shaving, it’s important to clean your skin for a smooth, even shave. Hop into the shower and let the warm water run over your back to soften your hair and get it ready to shave.[1]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, exfoliate your back in the shower. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can clog razors and make for an uneven shave.
If your back hair is very long, use an electric trimmer to trim the hair down before shaving. This can be a little tough to do on your own, so grab a friend to help you if you choose to do this optional step.
2 Apply shaving cream to your back. Shaving cream or gel will help your razor glide smoothly over your back. While your back is still slightly damp, rub some shaving cream in between your palms and apply it onto your back.[2]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
This part can be a little tough to do on your own. If you can’t quite reach, use a loofah on a long stick to lather yourself with shaving cream behind your back.
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3 Use a razor extender to shave by yourself. Razor extenders are products that are specifically made to help you shave your back on your own. You can buy razor extender handles that attach to a razor you already have, or you can buy a razor extender with a blade that’s made specifically for grooming your back. Whatever you choose will make the process much easier.[3]XResearch source
4 Pull the razor extender up your back in long strokes. Hold your razor extender in one hand and toss it over your shoulder like you’re using a back scratcher. Slowly slide the blade up your back to remove hair, one small section at a time.[4]XResearch source
Using a razor extender can feel a little funny at first, but you get the hang of it fast!
5 Use a mirror to see what you’re doing. A mirror will help you see what areas you’ve missed and what you need to do next. Use a large mirror, and try to angle it so that you have a clear view of your back. If it’s possible, set up 2 mirrors: 1 in front of you and 1 behind you.[5]XResearch source
You can also use a handheld mirror to focus on 1 specific area of your back at a time.
6 Go over your back at least twice. Depending on how thick and long your hair is, you may need to pass your razor over certain areas more than once. Keep reapplying shaving cream, and go over your back multiple times until there’s no more hair left.[6]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Take special care when shaving around your spine and shoulder blades. Ridged areas provide an uneven surface, which might make your razor more likely to jump.
7 Rinse off after you shave. Once your back looks nice and smooth, hop back into the shower and let the water wash away stray hairs and shaving cream. Pat your skin dry with a towel once you’re done.[7]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Your skin may be slightly sensitive or tender after shaving, especially if this is your first time. Treat your skin gently to avoid any irritation.
8 Follow up with a moisturizer. Shaving can be drying, so it’s important to moisturize afterwards, even on your back. Pick a fragrance-free, mild lotion and smooth it onto your skin with your hands.[8]X Trustworthy Source American Academy of DermatologyProfessional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source If you can’t quite reach, ask a friend or a partner to help.
If you’re going to be heading outside with your shirt off, make sure you apply an SPF 30 or higher to protect from the sun. Skin is more sensitive right after shaving, so your back is more likely to get burned.[9]X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug AdministrationU.S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source
If your back is prone to acne (or “backne”), apply an antiseptic aftershave that contains isopropyl alcohol. This will kill any of the bacteria on your back to avoid clogged pores and breakouts.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 2:
Other Hair Removal Methods
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1 Use a depilatory cream to dissolve the hair at the root. Depilatory cream, or hair removal cream, dissolves your hair at the surface of the skin, leading to a smooth feeling that typically lasts around 4 weeks. To use, simply spread the cream on your skin, wait 3 to 5 minutes, and rinse it off.[10]X Trustworthy Source Cleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
Since this is a cream, you may need to ask a friend or a romantic partner to help you put it on.
2 Get your back waxed for a long-lasting option. Find a salon that offers body waxing, and go in for an appointment. Waxing is generally safer than shaving, because it tends to cause less skin irritation.[11]X Expert Source Melissa JannesLicensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax EducatorExpert Interview It also lasts longer, and it shouldn't cost much more than $30. You won't need to shave your back every few days to keep the stubble down, and over time your back hair should even start to grow in thinner!
Waxing removes hair from the root. If done well, a back wax may last as long as 6 weeks—much longer than any shave.[12]X Expert Source Melissa JannesLicensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax EducatorExpert Interview
Waxing can be uncomfortable, especially during your first time. However, a professional will know how to minimize pain and irritation.
3 Look into laser hair removal for a semi-permanent option. Laser hair removal uses small lasers to target the hair follicle and kill it from the root. This procedure is generally safe and painless, and can last for years depending on how thick your hair is. Contact a licensed dermatologist to see if laser hair removal is a good option for you.[13]X Trustworthy Source Cleveland ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
The price of laser hair removal will depend on the particular salon and the hairiness of your back. As a general rule, however, you can expect the procedure to cost about $50-$100 per session, over as many as 10 sessions.
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Video
Tips
Shaving can lead to ingrown hairs. Fortunately, you can treat most ingrown hairs by simply leaving them alone. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 7
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Things You’ll Need
Shaving Your Own Back
Shaving cream
Razor extender
Mirror
Moisturizer
SPF 30 (optional)
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Co-authored by: Melissa Jannes Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator This article was co-authored by Melissa Jannes and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in Pennsylvania. This article has been viewed 382,404 times. 9 votes - 47% Co-authors: 12Updated: July 1, 2024 Views: 382,404 Categories: ShavingArticle SummaryX
To shave your own back, cover your back with shaving cream and shave in long, slow strokes. Use a large mirror and a handheld mirror to ensure you don’t miss any spots. If you’re having trouble reaching your entire back, consider using a razor extender to help make the job easier. When you’re finished, take a shower to wash the wet hairs and shaving cream off of your back. If your skin feels irritated, rub lotion onto your back to ease the discomfort. Read on to learn how to remove the hair on your back without shaving!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Melissa Jannes Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator 9 votes - 47% Click a star to vote 47% of people told us that this article helped them. Co-authors: 12Updated: July 1, 2024 Views: 382,404
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Download Article Our guide to removing back hair without any help Co-authored by Melissa Jannes and Hannah Madden 
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Co-authored by: Melissa Jannes Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator This article was co-authored by Melissa Jannes and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in Pennsylvania. This article has been viewed 382,404 times. 9 votes - 47% Co-authors: 12 Updated: July 1, 2024 Views: 382,404 Categories: Shaving Article SummaryX
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1 Take a shower to wet your skin and soften your hair. Before shaving, it’s important to clean your skin for a smooth, even shave. Hop into the shower and let the warm water run over your back to soften your hair and get it ready to shave.[1] 
2 Apply shaving cream to your back. Shaving cream or gel will help your razor glide smoothly over your back. While your back is still slightly damp, rub some shaving cream in between your palms and apply it onto your back.[2] 
3 Use a razor extender to shave by yourself. Razor extenders are products that are specifically made to help you shave your back on your own. You can buy razor extender handles that attach to a razor you already have, or you can buy a razor extender with a blade that’s made specifically for grooming your back. Whatever you choose will make the process much easier.[3] 
4 Pull the razor extender up your back in long strokes. Hold your razor extender in one hand and toss it over your shoulder like you’re using a back scratcher. Slowly slide the blade up your back to remove hair, one small section at a time.[4] 
5 Use a mirror to see what you’re doing. A mirror will help you see what areas you’ve missed and what you need to do next. Use a large mirror, and try to angle it so that you have a clear view of your back. If it’s possible, set up 2 mirrors: 1 in front of you and 1 behind you.[5] 
6 Go over your back at least twice. Depending on how thick and long your hair is, you may need to pass your razor over certain areas more than once. Keep reapplying shaving cream, and go over your back multiple times until there’s no more hair left.[6] 
7 Rinse off after you shave. Once your back looks nice and smooth, hop back into the shower and let the water wash away stray hairs and shaving cream. Pat your skin dry with a towel once you’re done.[7] 
8 Follow up with a moisturizer. Shaving can be drying, so it’s important to moisturize afterwards, even on your back. Pick a fragrance-free, mild lotion and smooth it onto your skin with your hands.[8] If you can’t quite reach, ask a friend or a partner to help. 
1 Use a depilatory cream to dissolve the hair at the root. Depilatory cream, or hair removal cream, dissolves your hair at the surface of the skin, leading to a smooth feeling that typically lasts around 4 weeks. To use, simply spread the cream on your skin, wait 3 to 5 minutes, and rinse it off.[10] 
2 Get your back waxed for a long-lasting option. Find a salon that offers body waxing, and go in for an appointment. Waxing is generally safer than shaving, because it tends to cause less skin irritation.[11] It also lasts longer, and it shouldn't cost much more than $30. You won't need to shave your back every few days to keep the stubble down, and over time your back hair should even start to grow in thinner! 
3 Look into laser hair removal for a semi-permanent option. Laser hair removal uses small lasers to target the hair follicle and kill it from the root. This procedure is generally safe and painless, and can last for years depending on how thick your hair is. Contact a licensed dermatologist to see if laser hair removal is a good option for you.[13] 
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