This $20 bikini trimmer has a smaller head that makes it easy to maneuver around sensitive areas — I've been using it for a year and have never gotten so much as a nick

• Getting the perfect trim around your bikini line can be tough to do with regular razors.
• The Gillette Venus Bikini Precision trimmer is my go-to for getting an even trim thanks to its smaller razor head, which makes it easier to maneuver.

After graduating from college, I worked in the beauty department at Vogue Magazine where I was constantly asked to try out new beauty treatments (I know, I know). The one treatment I couldn't muster the courage to try, though, was a full Brazilian wax.

Something about pouring hot wax on skin in that area and contorting my body in strange positions (I was told I would have to place my leg up on the aesthetician's shoulder), was enough to make me consider alternative bikini hair removal options, like trimming with scissors, tweezing, and depilatories. But these choices were annoying and painful, which is why shaving with a trimmer became my go-to hair remover of choice.

The Gillette Venus Bikini Precision is one such trimmer that I've come to appreciate. Unlike the average 1.5-inch straight razor head, the head on this device barely measures an inch, which gives you more control while maneuvering curves like around the inner thighs. It won't give you a clean shave, and it shouldn't. The point of trimmers is to leave a small but even amount of hair behind, which makes uncomfortable razor bumps less of an issue.

Thanks to an included comb attachment, the razor allows you to shave to different lengths. The comb snaps on to get you a slightly longer length when dragged against your hair growth, but to shave closer to the skin or shape your hair, simply remove the comb and switch course, trimming in the direction of hair growth. Remember to move slowly, holding the skin taut with your free hand.

Everyone's skin has a different level of sensitivity, but for me, there's no need to dampen my hair before trimming, or to prep with shaving cream — nice time savers. Just keep in mind that if your hair gets too long between sessions, you'll risk jamming the trimmer, so it's best to keep up your shaving routine pretty regularly.

The trimmer is water-resistant, so you can bring it into the shower, but don't submerge it in the tub. To clean, remove the head by rotating it counter-clockwise, then rinse it under warm water. The manufacturer recommends lubricating the blade with a drop of oil after cleaning (try Remington Shaver Saver Cleaner & Lubricant, $17).

The bottom line:

I've cut my skin down there using traditional razors (ouch!), but it's almost impossible to cut yourself using this device as the tiny metal teeth glide gently over the skin. I've owned this tool for over a year, and I've never experienced a nick or ingrown hair.

Overall, this razor is a great value for the $20 price. It's easy to use, it maneuvers well, and it runs on batteries so I never have to charge it. The included pouch is also great for transporting and storage — and trust me, you'll be toting this trimmer with you for a while.