I tend to shave the lips area and then just trim very closely for the rest. I use a basic venus razor and shaving cream for the shaved parts and havent had any problems. one thing i do do that really seems to help is PUT ICE DIRECTLY ON THE SHAVED PARTS right after. it closes up the pores much more quickly and prevents razor burn and ingrown hairs. as for the trimming, i find that if you pinch the skin in small sections it raises the hairs and makes it much easier to get a closer trim. also, if you have some hairs outside of your bikini line you'd like to get rid of, plucking with tweezers is a good option. it hurts the first couple of times since its such a sensitive area, but you'll get used to it quickly.
hope this helps!