Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBenefits of Pubic HairPubic Hair GrowthTo Remove or Not to Remove?Pubic Hair Hygiene
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Benefits of Pubic Hair
Pubic Hair Growth
To Remove or Not to Remove?
Pubic Hair Hygiene
Pubic hair starts growing in the genital area duringpuberty.Experts believe pubic hair has certain health functions and is a protective barrier for the genital region. However, many people choose to remove some or all of it.
Though pubic hair removal is a personal preference, some risks are associated with the various removal methods.
This article discusses pubic hair, its function, and tips on removal if desired.
FreshSplash/ Getty Images
Pubic hair is classified asterminal hair, which means it tends to be thicker, longer, and more pigmented thanthe hairon your arms, for example.
Some research suggests that pubic hair developed initially in humans to protect the genital area from foreign substances, like bacteria or chemicals, and friction.Pubic hair may also regulatebody temperature. It helps keep the skin warm and moisturized while wicking away sweat.
Additionally, certainsexually transmitted infections(STIs) are more likely to be transmitted if the skin surface is damaged. Recent research shows thatnot removing pubic haircould potentially offer STI protection.However, more research and concrete evidence is needed.
Another potential benefit of pubic hair is related topheromones, body chemicals that, when secreted, might serve as communication signals in animals. However, its function in humans isn’t scientifically confirmed.Although more research is needed, some experts believe pheromones and pubic hair may have played a role in scent and sexual attraction in human history.
Location
Pubic hair is distributed on the genital area and can spread to the thighs and lower abdomen. In females, pubic hair is mainly located on the vulva, while in males, pubic hair is located around thepenisandtesticles.Pubic hair generally grows in the shape of an upside-down triangle.
Amount and Thickness
The amount of pubic hair a person has increases, starting inpubertyto adulthood. It typically becomes thicker, curlier, and more pigmented.Each person has a slightly different amount and thickness of pubic hair.
Pubic Hair: To Remove or Not to Remove?
Whether or not you want to remove some or all of your pubic hair is an individual choice. Though some people may opt for removal, experts say there is no medical or hygienic reason.
Why People Remove Pubic Hair
Removing pubic hair is a common practice that appears to be linked to cosmetic and aesthetic purposes, particularly in women.Experts theorize that it’s considered part of modern society’s characterization of sexual appeal.
One survey found a majority of women (87%) ages 16 to 40 years old in the United States reported that they remove all or some pubic hair, primarily for sexuality or aesthetic reasons.It may also be linked to partner preference or desire, with data showing roughly 20% of women and men report pubic hair removal for these reasons.
Research also found that while most men and women report grooming their pubic hair, around a quarter of these respondents also report experiencing an injury or infection as a result.
Dealing With Ingrown HairsAningrown hairfolds back into the skin as it regrows after shaving, waxing, or tweezing. It’s a common complication in pubic hair removal, as the hair in this area is typically more coarse.Whileingrown pubic hairscan be difficult to prevent, experts recommend shaving in the direction of hair growth and gently exfoliating the area.
Dealing With Ingrown Hairs
Aningrown hairfolds back into the skin as it regrows after shaving, waxing, or tweezing. It’s a common complication in pubic hair removal, as the hair in this area is typically more coarse.Whileingrown pubic hairscan be difficult to prevent, experts recommend shaving in the direction of hair growth and gently exfoliating the area.
Removal Methods and Safety
If you desire, there are several options forremoving pubic hair. Remember that some pubic hair removal options may increase the risk of infection.
In some instances, keeping up with a pubic hair removal routine is not recommended. Experts suggest not shaving, waxing, or lasering pubic hair within a few weeks of having agynecological surgery. This gives hair removal-related injuries the chance to fully heal without risking further infection.
Grooming your pubic hair yourself? Experts suggest taking your time, using a mirror to help guide you, and using soap or shaving cream as a skin lubricant, if needed, for shaving.
Basic Pubic Hair Hygiene
Having some or all pubic hair intact is not considered unclean or unhygienic. Noticing a bit of natural body odor from the pubic area is likely a sign that pubic hair is successfully protecting the genital skin fromexcessive sweat, oil, and bacteria.
But just like the hair on your head, it’s a good idea to keep the pubic hair and surrounding genital area clean. This involves rinsing regularly with water and mild soap.
Summary
Pubic hair is natural and likely offers protective health benefits, though many people choose to remove some or all of it. The multiple existing hair removal options, like shaving, waxing, tweezing, and laser, may have potential risks, including skin damage and injury. A healthcare provider can discuss any concerns or questions about pubic hair, its purpose, and removal methods.
21 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.MedlinePlus.Puberty.American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.To shave or not to shave: an ob-gyn’s guide to pubic hair care.Chen Y, Bruning E, Rubino J, Eder SE.Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: global hygiene practices and product usage.Womens Health (Lond). 2017;13(3):58-67. doi:10.1177/1745505717731011Ryu SR, Suh J, Kim H, Shin K.The surface and internal features of pubic hair: a comparative study with those of scalp hair.Exp Dermatol. 2023;32(9):1509-1520. doi:10.1111/exd.14855MedlinePlus.Hair problems.Desruelles F, Cunningham SA, Dubois D.Pubic hair removal: a risk factor for ‘minor’ STI such as molluscum contagiosum?Sex Transm Infect. 2013;89(3):216. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2012-050982Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, Awad MA, Truesdale MD, Allen I, Sutcliffe S, Breyer BN.Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample.Sex Transm Infect. 2017;93(3):162-166. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2016-052687Bind RH, Minney SM, Rosenfeld SJ, Hallock RM.The role of pheromonal responses in rodent behavior: future directions for the development of laboratory protocols.J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013;52(2):124-129.Mostafa T, El Khouly G, Hassan A.Pheromones in sex and reproduction: do they have a role in humans?.J Adv Res.2012:3(1):1-9. doi:10.1016/j.jare.2011.03.003Miranda BH, Charlesworth MR, Tobin DJ, Sharpe DT, Randall VA.Androgens trigger different growth responses in genetically identical human hair follicles in organ culture that reflect their epigenetic diversity in life.FASEB J. 2018;32(2):795-806. doi:10.1096/fj.201700260RRAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Vulvovaginal health.Rowen TS, Gaither TW, Awad MA, et al.Pubic hair grooming prevalence and motivation among women in the United States.JAMA Dermatol.2016;152(10):1106–1113. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2016.2154DeMaria AL, Flores M, Hirth JM, Berenson AB.Complications related to pubic hair removal.Am J Obstet Gynecol.2014;210(6):528.e1-5. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2014.01.036Gaither TW, Award MA, Breyer BN.Prevalence and motivation: pubic hair grooming among men in the United States.Am J Men Health.2017;11(3):620-640. doi:10.1177/1557988316661315Truesdale MD, Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, et al.Prevalence of pubic hair grooming–related injuries and identification of high-risk individuals in the United States.JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(11):1114-1121. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.2815Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae; current treatment options.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250American Academy of Dermatology.6 ways to remove unwanted hair.American Academy of Dermatology.7 ways to prevent injuries while trimming pubic hair.Kang CN, Shah M, Lynde C, Fleming P.Hair removal practices: a literature review.Skin Therapy Lett. 2021;26(5):6-11.American Academy of Dermatology.Hair removal: how to shave.American Academy of Dermatology.Laser hair removal: FAQs.
21 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.MedlinePlus.Puberty.American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.To shave or not to shave: an ob-gyn’s guide to pubic hair care.Chen Y, Bruning E, Rubino J, Eder SE.Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: global hygiene practices and product usage.Womens Health (Lond). 2017;13(3):58-67. doi:10.1177/1745505717731011Ryu SR, Suh J, Kim H, Shin K.The surface and internal features of pubic hair: a comparative study with those of scalp hair.Exp Dermatol. 2023;32(9):1509-1520. doi:10.1111/exd.14855MedlinePlus.Hair problems.Desruelles F, Cunningham SA, Dubois D.Pubic hair removal: a risk factor for ‘minor’ STI such as molluscum contagiosum?Sex Transm Infect. 2013;89(3):216. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2012-050982Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, Awad MA, Truesdale MD, Allen I, Sutcliffe S, Breyer BN.Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample.Sex Transm Infect. 2017;93(3):162-166. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2016-052687Bind RH, Minney SM, Rosenfeld SJ, Hallock RM.The role of pheromonal responses in rodent behavior: future directions for the development of laboratory protocols.J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013;52(2):124-129.Mostafa T, El Khouly G, Hassan A.Pheromones in sex and reproduction: do they have a role in humans?.J Adv Res.2012:3(1):1-9. doi:10.1016/j.jare.2011.03.003Miranda BH, Charlesworth MR, Tobin DJ, Sharpe DT, Randall VA.Androgens trigger different growth responses in genetically identical human hair follicles in organ culture that reflect their epigenetic diversity in life.FASEB J. 2018;32(2):795-806. doi:10.1096/fj.201700260RRAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Vulvovaginal health.Rowen TS, Gaither TW, Awad MA, et al.Pubic hair grooming prevalence and motivation among women in the United States.JAMA Dermatol.2016;152(10):1106–1113. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2016.2154DeMaria AL, Flores M, Hirth JM, Berenson AB.Complications related to pubic hair removal.Am J Obstet Gynecol.2014;210(6):528.e1-5. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2014.01.036Gaither TW, Award MA, Breyer BN.Prevalence and motivation: pubic hair grooming among men in the United States.Am J Men Health.2017;11(3):620-640. doi:10.1177/1557988316661315Truesdale MD, Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, et al.Prevalence of pubic hair grooming–related injuries and identification of high-risk individuals in the United States.JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(11):1114-1121. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.2815Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae; current treatment options.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250American Academy of Dermatology.6 ways to remove unwanted hair.American Academy of Dermatology.7 ways to prevent injuries while trimming pubic hair.Kang CN, Shah M, Lynde C, Fleming P.Hair removal practices: a literature review.Skin Therapy Lett. 2021;26(5):6-11.American Academy of Dermatology.Hair removal: how to shave.American Academy of Dermatology.Laser hair removal: FAQs.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
MedlinePlus.Puberty.American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.To shave or not to shave: an ob-gyn’s guide to pubic hair care.Chen Y, Bruning E, Rubino J, Eder SE.Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: global hygiene practices and product usage.Womens Health (Lond). 2017;13(3):58-67. doi:10.1177/1745505717731011Ryu SR, Suh J, Kim H, Shin K.The surface and internal features of pubic hair: a comparative study with those of scalp hair.Exp Dermatol. 2023;32(9):1509-1520. doi:10.1111/exd.14855MedlinePlus.Hair problems.Desruelles F, Cunningham SA, Dubois D.Pubic hair removal: a risk factor for ‘minor’ STI such as molluscum contagiosum?Sex Transm Infect. 2013;89(3):216. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2012-050982Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, Awad MA, Truesdale MD, Allen I, Sutcliffe S, Breyer BN.Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample.Sex Transm Infect. 2017;93(3):162-166. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2016-052687Bind RH, Minney SM, Rosenfeld SJ, Hallock RM.The role of pheromonal responses in rodent behavior: future directions for the development of laboratory protocols.J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013;52(2):124-129.Mostafa T, El Khouly G, Hassan A.Pheromones in sex and reproduction: do they have a role in humans?.J Adv Res.2012:3(1):1-9. doi:10.1016/j.jare.2011.03.003Miranda BH, Charlesworth MR, Tobin DJ, Sharpe DT, Randall VA.Androgens trigger different growth responses in genetically identical human hair follicles in organ culture that reflect their epigenetic diversity in life.FASEB J. 2018;32(2):795-806. doi:10.1096/fj.201700260RRAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Vulvovaginal health.Rowen TS, Gaither TW, Awad MA, et al.Pubic hair grooming prevalence and motivation among women in the United States.JAMA Dermatol.2016;152(10):1106–1113. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2016.2154DeMaria AL, Flores M, Hirth JM, Berenson AB.Complications related to pubic hair removal.Am J Obstet Gynecol.2014;210(6):528.e1-5. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2014.01.036Gaither TW, Award MA, Breyer BN.Prevalence and motivation: pubic hair grooming among men in the United States.Am J Men Health.2017;11(3):620-640. doi:10.1177/1557988316661315Truesdale MD, Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, et al.Prevalence of pubic hair grooming–related injuries and identification of high-risk individuals in the United States.JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(11):1114-1121. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.2815Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae; current treatment options.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250American Academy of Dermatology.6 ways to remove unwanted hair.American Academy of Dermatology.7 ways to prevent injuries while trimming pubic hair.Kang CN, Shah M, Lynde C, Fleming P.Hair removal practices: a literature review.Skin Therapy Lett. 2021;26(5):6-11.American Academy of Dermatology.Hair removal: how to shave.American Academy of Dermatology.Laser hair removal: FAQs.
MedlinePlus.Puberty.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.To shave or not to shave: an ob-gyn’s guide to pubic hair care.
Chen Y, Bruning E, Rubino J, Eder SE.Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: global hygiene practices and product usage.Womens Health (Lond). 2017;13(3):58-67. doi:10.1177/1745505717731011
Ryu SR, Suh J, Kim H, Shin K.The surface and internal features of pubic hair: a comparative study with those of scalp hair.Exp Dermatol. 2023;32(9):1509-1520. doi:10.1111/exd.14855
MedlinePlus.Hair problems.
Desruelles F, Cunningham SA, Dubois D.Pubic hair removal: a risk factor for ‘minor’ STI such as molluscum contagiosum?Sex Transm Infect. 2013;89(3):216. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2012-050982
Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, Awad MA, Truesdale MD, Allen I, Sutcliffe S, Breyer BN.Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample.Sex Transm Infect. 2017;93(3):162-166. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2016-052687
Bind RH, Minney SM, Rosenfeld SJ, Hallock RM.The role of pheromonal responses in rodent behavior: future directions for the development of laboratory protocols.J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci. 2013;52(2):124-129.
Mostafa T, El Khouly G, Hassan A.Pheromones in sex and reproduction: do they have a role in humans?.J Adv Res.2012:3(1):1-9. doi:10.1016/j.jare.2011.03.003
Miranda BH, Charlesworth MR, Tobin DJ, Sharpe DT, Randall VA.Androgens trigger different growth responses in genetically identical human hair follicles in organ culture that reflect their epigenetic diversity in life.FASEB J. 2018;32(2):795-806. doi:10.1096/fj.201700260RR
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Vulvovaginal health.
Rowen TS, Gaither TW, Awad MA, et al.Pubic hair grooming prevalence and motivation among women in the United States.JAMA Dermatol.2016;152(10):1106–1113. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2016.2154
DeMaria AL, Flores M, Hirth JM, Berenson AB.Complications related to pubic hair removal.Am J Obstet Gynecol.2014;210(6):528.e1-5. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2014.01.036
Gaither TW, Award MA, Breyer BN.Prevalence and motivation: pubic hair grooming among men in the United States.Am J Men Health.2017;11(3):620-640. doi:10.1177/1557988316661315
Truesdale MD, Osterberg EC, Gaither TW, et al.Prevalence of pubic hair grooming–related injuries and identification of high-risk individuals in the United States.JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(11):1114-1121. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.2815
Ogunbiyi A.Pseudofolliculitis barbae; current treatment options.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:241-247. doi:10.2147/CCID.S149250
American Academy of Dermatology.6 ways to remove unwanted hair.
American Academy of Dermatology.7 ways to prevent injuries while trimming pubic hair.
Kang CN, Shah M, Lynde C, Fleming P.Hair removal practices: a literature review.Skin Therapy Lett. 2021;26(5):6-11.
American Academy of Dermatology.Hair removal: how to shave.
American Academy of Dermatology.Laser hair removal: FAQs.
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