How to Shave Your Own Back (Plus Other Hair Removal Options)

• 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.

Shaving Your Own Back

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. 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.

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. 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.

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.

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. Using a razor extender can feel a little funny at first, but you get the hang of it fast!

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. You can also use a handheld mirror to focus on 1 specific area of your back at a time.

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. 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.

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. 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.

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. 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. 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.

Other Hair Removal Methods

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. Since this is a cream, you may need to ask a friend or a romantic partner to help you put it on.

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. 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. Waxing can be uncomfortable, especially during your first time. However, a professional will know how to minimize pain and irritation.

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. 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.