Reader question: What's the best way to avoid nicks and cuts while shaving? -- Ann B.

According to Venus Scientist, Claire Girdler, there are four primary suspects that are responsible for the majority of women's shaving injuries. As she says, they are:

#1: Shaving with an old, dull blade
"Make sure to change your blades regularly (after every five shaves) as blunt blades are not effective and may also increase the risk of irritation," suggests Girdler who also mentions that "using a dull blade may result in you pressing harder during a shaving stroke, which can also cause nicks and cuts."

#2: Razor slippage
The manner in which you shave may also be responsible for your minor injuries. According to Girdler, "the razor should only ever be moved in the direction perpendicular to the blades; never move your razor side-to-side over your skin."

To prevent slippage, she recommends using a razor with "a handle designed to give greater control and maneuverability in a wet environment." (Try Gillette Venus ProSkin Moisturerich, $10.99.)

#3: Putting excessive pressure on the razor
Ease up a bit! "Women occasionally apply too much pressure to their razor," Girdler observes. "To help prevent unwanted nicks and cuts, use a light touch, exerting as little pressure as possible, and shave in the direction that feels most comfortable. "

#4: The use of inferior-performing shaving products
Culprits like single blade razors and cheapo disposable ones, can cause nicks and cuts. Happily we live in a time when multi-blade technology abounds -- having more blades means less drag on the skin and more adjustability on curves and tough-to-reach areas.

Now that you know how to keep those pesky cuts and nicks to a minimum, find out all there is to know about getting the perfect bikini area shave.