Pubic hair, even as a natural part of the female body, often becomes a matter of personal preference, social norms, and hygiene debates, especially when it comes to our vaginal health. While some choose to keep it, others prefer to remove it, and each decision comes with its own potential benefits and risks. But understanding the role pubic hair plays in vaginal health may make you think twice the next time you go to remove it.
What is pubic hair and why do we have it?
Pubic hair refers to hair that grows in the genital region, usually around the time of puberty. Hair growth is caused by hormonal changes during adolescence and serves several physiological and protective functions. The numerous functions of our pubic hair are crucial to maintaining vaginal health.
Just as lactobacilli help maintain healthy vaginal pH levels (preventing the growth of bacteria), pubic hair acts as a barrier, also protecting the pubic area from bacteria and external pathogens. As a result, the protective layer of hair helps reduce the risk of infection by preventing harmful microorganisms from entering the vaginal canal. These infections can range from yeast infections to STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and urinary tract infections (urinary tract infections). HUM Private Party provides daily support for your vaginal health, helping you maintain a healthy pH balance and vaginal microbiome. The supplement contains three types of lactobacilliwhich promote a healthy pH balance, and cranberry PAC for a healthy urinary tract, both highly effective in reducing the risk of numerous infections.
Aesthetic Gynecologist in Modern Gynecology, Jillian WoodruffHe adds that “pubic hair helps regulate humidity and temperature around the vaginal area, insulating our heat in cold weather and helping with sweat evaporation in hot weather.”
Hair can absorb other bodily fluids in addition to sweat, maintaining a balance that prevents an overly humid environment, which could otherwise encourage bacterial growth. Pubic hair also connects with pheromone sexual signaling by trapping natural chemicals involved in sexual attraction and arousal, thus playing a role in human reproductive behavior.
Is it safe to remove pubic hair?
While pubic hair removal is generally safe when done correctly, it does carry some risks. The hair removal process, whether through shaving, waxing, or other alternative methods, can often cause irritation and abrasions. Most are minor injuries, but they can quickly become entry points for bacteria, increasing the risk of infections such as folliculitis, a condition in which hair follicles become inflamed. For women who opt for hair removal, Woodruff says, “It is important to note that many women experience problems with hair removal, such as ingrown hairs, painful bumps, increased infections resulting from micro-tears in the skin, along with the risks of not have hair present.”
- Skin irritation: If you’re prone to skin irritation, you might benefit more from eliminating disposable razors from your routine. Although they are affordable, convenient, and can get the job done quickly, this is one area where you shouldn’t be slack. Dry shaving (especially with a dull razor) and shaving in the wrong direction can cause burns, resulting in redness, burning, and itching in and around the pubic area.
- Infection: One of the most common Risks associated with pubic hair removal. It’s the infection. Skin infections can cause dermatitis or folliculitis and are exceptionally common when using tools contaminated with bacteria (i.e. a razor). Having exposed pores, minor cuts, and less pubic hair to use as protection can lead to infections, STIs, and hepatitis.
- Burns: There are a few ways burns can occur as a result of hair removal. Hair removal creams use chemicals that dissolve hair on the surface of the skin and can sometimes cause burns if left on the skin for too long. Hot wax, on the other hand, contains fewer chemicals, but its higher temperature can cause painful burns and possible skin damage if not used correctly.
- Allergic reaction: Our vaginas are an extremely delicate part of our bodies and many hair removal products, such as shaving creams, waxes and hair removal creams, contain various chemicals and fragrances that can cause allergic reactions on the surface. Symptoms may include an itchy red rash, swelling, and discomfort. If you have sensitive skin, try to use minimal products that are natural and fragrance-free.
- Ingrown hair: Ingrown hairs are another common problem associated with removing (any) body hair and are almost always inflamed. Instead of growing outward like normal hairs, ingrown hairs grow back into the skin, causing red, painful bumps that can become infected. If you tend to get ingrown hairs, try dry brushing several times a week. Doing this can help prevent ingrown hairs by exfoliating the skin and removing dirt and dead cells so the hairs can grow normally.
Options to remove pubic hair
There are several methods available for removing pubic hair, each with its strengths and weaknesses.
Garrison
This simple and safe method uses scissors or an electric clipper to reduce pubic hair without removing it completely. The technique minimizes the risk of irritation, cuts and ingrown hairs associated with other hair removal methods. It’s also quick, easy, and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal option for those new to pubic hair removal or those who prefer to keep some natural hair for protection.
Shaved off
Shaving is undoubtedly the most popular method, favored for its convenience and affordability. A razor cuts hair on the surface of the skin, providing smooth and immediate results. However, it requires frequent maintenance as the hair grows back quickly, often within a few days. Additionally, using disposable blades can cause burns and ingrown hairs, so it is best to use a sharp razor with four or five blades and change it frequently to avoid cuts and the transfer of bacteria to the vaginal area.
Hair removal/sugar
Both waxing and sugaring provide long-lasting results compared to shaving, but they can still be painful and cause skin irritation or burns if not done correctly. The process involves applying the hot wax or sugar mixture to the skin and then quickly removing it, pulling out the hair from the roots. For many, it’s a question of which lasts longer (both last about 4-6 weeks). However, the use of sugar is often preferred, as it is softer on the skin. The mixture only sticks to the hair (not the skin), and compared to waxing, sugar causes less redness, irritation, and ingrown hairs. As a result, these benefits make sugar an optimal choice for people with sensitive skin.
laser hair removal
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, this type of hair removal uses laser technology to target and destroy hair follicles. While effective, it can be expensive and typically requires several sessions. Additionally, it is important to note that laser hair removal may not be suitable for all skin types.
Depilatory creams
Depilatories or “chemical creams” are creams that are applied to the skin and dissolve the hair on the surface after sitting for a few minutes. These creams are generally not recommended for the bikini or genital area because they can cause redness, itching, burning, and other reactions.
Reasons to remove pubic hair
While completely optional, the number of women removing their pubic hair for cosmetic purposes continues to grow each year. A 2013 study It revealed that more than 83% of women between 18 and 65 had shaved their pubic hair, while 16% had never done so. Women choose to remove their pubic hair for a variety of reasons, often influenced by personal preferences and cultural norms that we experience today. Many women find that hair removal increases their feeling of cleanliness and comfort, especially during menstruation or in hot weather, when sweat can accumulate.
Sexual preferences also play a role, as some people and their partners may prefer the appearance of a hairless vagina. Additionally, certain sports and activities, such as swimming or gymnastics, often encourage hair removal for aesthetic reasons or to reduce friction and discomfort.
Food to go
Pubic hair serves vital functions for our overall vaginal health, particularly in terms of protecting and maintaining healthy pH levels. However, Woodruff adds: “The choice to remove pubic hair is deeply personal and varies greatly between women. “Some women prefer to remove their pubic hair for personal aesthetic reasons, comfort during physical activities, or their own personal hygiene preferences.” While deciding whether to remove some or all of your hair is personal, being aware of the potential risks can help you make more informed decisions that align with your health, comfort, and personal preferences.
