But before you start manscaping (here's a guide to doing that), keep someone else in mind: your friend from the other side. It's time to say hello to him, too.

Yes, we're talking about your butt.

"Thanks to Snapchat and sexting, people are more conscious over their appearance, and this includes the butt," says spa educator Ben Brown. Brown, who works at Bliss Spa, says shaving the buttocks region is hardly a new request, but has become more accepted and popular among men this year.

Vanity and hygiene are two of the reasons. You're removing hair that could be caught with bacteria or areas that haven't been properly wiped; that alone, friends, deserves a trim under the chimney.

"Not only are men finding that it's more hygienic, but it's also more sightly and attractive," Brown adds.

Plus, it's more comfortable to sit on a bare butt. "Think about it: Clothing is a lot tighter now with men wearing skinnier things, like jeans," he says. "That's a lot of friction there. The more hair you have, the more uncomfortable you are."

SEE ALSO: Men, here's your easy guide to manscaping

If you think it's a little risqué, don't fear. It's becoming "the new norm" for men, says Brown. While seeking a professional is your best bet, he has a few DIY tips on doing it in the safety — and privacy — of your own home.
Take a bath

First things first. It may seem obvious, but cleanse the area properly. The easiest method is to sit in a bath and let things soak, allowing pores to open up. Trust us: It'll make things a lot easier in the end. Take time, luxuriate and clear your mind for what's ahead.

Mirror, mirror

Brown recommends taking a mirror to get through every crevice. Sit on the toilet seat — or even your bathroom floor — with legs open in a squat. Place the mirror below and start getting at it.

Option 1: A close shave

If you're going for the razor, make sure your blade is sharp. A dull blade will get the razor twisted and tangled — and nobody wants that. Lather yourself up with a nice gel or shaving cream and make sure your skin is taut.

Keep the skin from folding by lifting one butt cheek at a time; generally, a quick shave-and-go method is best. Just make sure you're very careful and extra gentle with the "rosebud area," Brown says — that is, the anus and its surrounding area.

Option 2: Wax on, wax off

The best way to get all your hair off at once is using a wax, Brown says, like the Poetic Waxing kit (you can melt it in the microwave).

Think of it like a Band-Aid: simply place, wait and feel for the wax to bond with the hair. Generally, you'll only have to wait a few minutes — then pull against the grain of the hair, Brown suggests.

Option 3: Use an electric razor

If you're clumsy and not into waxing, have no fear: An electric razor may be your best bet. Because of the settings on each razor, though, it won't trim past a certain point — so even if you're whacking away, the device will show restraint.

Manage that itch

It's natural to feel a little sensitive after a close shave or wax. To help cool things down, try jojoba lotions or essential oils.

"Moisturizing right after is important," Brown says. That said, though, make sure that everything stays super clean and completely dry in the upcoming days. Moisture can cause bacteria and itching.

Avoid hair removal chemicals

Stay away from instant hair removal chemicals like Nair, and don't go tanning immediately. "Your pores are going to be super open, so lay off any tanning for two to three days as it's super sensitive," Brown says. Noted.

Shimmy, shake, celebrate

With your newfound freedom, it's OK to feel elated. You deserve it. Perhaps your dance moves will be a little more liberated or your squats at the gym a little easier to manage. Whatever the case, celebrate however you'd like: In a few months, you'll have the same process to look forward to.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.

TOPICS: FASHION, GROOMING, LIFESTYLE, SHAVING