Our grandmas would have not even imagined discussing the hair down there, but thanks to the media and internet we girls are here researching, debating, and exploring our options on how to groom that little bush.
We have so many questions to enquire?
Does the pubic hair have any purpose?
Are there any health benefits associated with them?
Can we really fully shave them? Would there be any side effects after shaving them?
Here we will try to understand what is pubic hair and the pros & cons of shaving it.
1. Difference between female pubic hair and body hair?
Before we see the difference between the hair in the genital areas to that of the hair in other visible areas of the body, one should know that three main types of hair grow on all human beings.
First is the Lanugo hair, the hair grown on fetus, which are lost once the baby is born.
Second is the Vellus hair, the thin, short, and light hair, which covers almost the complete human body except for some areas like the back of the ears, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, etc.
The third is the Terminal hair or the Androgenic hair, long and thicker hair, which during puberty replaces vellus hair in certain areas of the body like arms, armpits, legs, pubic, facial hair, etc.
The length, color, and thickness of terminal hair vary from person to person depending on the hair growth rate and genes.
2. Pros and cons of shaving female pubic hair:
If you think pubic hair is just a thick bush of wiry hair that is present for no reason, then you are wrong! First of all, these hairs mark the sign of puberty and also acts as a protective shield of the vagina.
Following are some of the pros and cons of clean shaving the female pubic hair;
2.1. Pros:
- Shaving pubic hair has become an aesthetic social norm. Women do it because they believe their genitals look attractive after shaving.
- A smooth and soft vagina looks more appealing to sexual partners.
- Shaving results in a much cleaner appearance.
- Since there is no hair, there is no more sweat and itchiness.
- Pubic hair locks the sweaty smell of your vagina and produces a strong odor. So, shaving them eliminates that odor and makes you feel fresh.
- Shaving gives you a lot of advantages in dressing. You can flaunt different swimsuits and leggings.
- Removing pubic hair increases sexual sensation resulting in a more pleasant experience.
- There is no hair and there is no chance for a germ or lice attack.
2.2. Cons:
- Removing the safety guard means, you are prone to more infections.
- Pathogens and bacteria can cause UTIs, vaginitis, and yeast infections.
- Shaving can irritate your skin, leading to skin problems like cellulitis and folliculitis.
- Cuts, burns, and rashes are the most common injuries that can occur because of shaving.
- Pubic hairs grow back faster and thicker and hence you have to do remove them regularly to avoid the bush.
3. Health benefits of pubic hair female:
As we mentioned earlier these coarse pubic hairs are existing for some reason. They provide some surprising health benefits to women. Some of them are as follows;
3.1. Maintains the temperature of the genitals:
We all know that animals have fur to keep them warm. Well, our human bodies are not different from them.
Hairs serve the purpose of keeping our body warm and pubic hair does the same by maintaining the temperature around female genitals.
3.2. Prevents skin rubbing and acts as a buffer:
Pubic hair acts as a protective pillow to protect your skin from the friction that may arise from the rubbing of skins during intercourse.
This defensive barrier also serves as a shock absorber, when you do certain exercises like cycling.
3.3. May reduce the risk of getting an infection:
Like how eyelashes protect your eyes, pubic hair acts as a wall and does not allow any dirt, germs, bacteria, and pathogens to enter inside the vagina.
The pubic hair follicles produce an oil called sebum, which stops the microorganisms to reproduce and thus minimizing the risk of getting infections.
3.4. Attract even powers due to pheromones:
Pheromones are scented chemicals secreted from apocrine sweat glands, which are abundant in the pubic region.
People believe in the theory that these pheromones are trapped inside the pubic hair and their smell can be sexually tempting and enticing for your partner.
4. Top benefits of shaving pubic area female:
Shaving pubic hair is totally based on your personal preferences. If you are determined to make that choice, “say hurray!”, you get to enjoy the following cool benefits;
4.1. Eliminating odor:
When you get rid of your pubic hair, you also remove the apocrine sweat glands. This will leave you with an odorless vagina.
4.2. Healthier:
Once you shave the bush, your pubic area will look much cleaner without any itching or irritation.
4.3. Better intercourse:
Studies say that men are more attracted to hair-less pubes. If you find oral sex fascinating, then you should definitely go for shaving your mound with a nice sharp razor.
4.4. Increased sexual activity:
Some theories suggest that there is a link between vaginal hair removal and sexual functionalities. Many young people report that there is an increase in sexual sensation after they remove their pubic hair.
4.5. Looks better:
Having soft and smooth vaginas make women feel more confident and comfortable in dressing whatever they like.
5. Possible consequences of removing pubic hair:
- Depilatory creams can cause chemical burns to your sensitive skin.
- There can be redness, irritation, and itching after removing the pubic hair.
- Cuts, bruises, and boils can appear.
- One may get infected with “Hair root infection” which is commonly caused due to shaving.
6. Should one use an electric razor for pubic hair removal?
Electric razors are long-lasting, portable shavers that come with a variety of additional features. One can even choose to have a dry or a wet shave depending on their preferences. Electric razors are safer than manual razors because there are fewer or no chances of cutting. However manual razors can provide a quick and close shave than electric razors, with a high risk of getting injured. You can choose by deciding which shaving method would best suit your needs and lifestyle.
7. Side effects of pubic hair removal:
As mentioned earlier, some consequences or side-effects are resulting from shaving pubic hair. There are some suggestions to help you treat these at your home, but you may have to consult the doctor for a permanent solution.
7.1. You can relieve the discomfort in the following ways:
- Soak yourselves in a warm bathtub or take a warm shower. The hot water will help you in cooling off your bruises.
- You can also try keeping your vaginal area dry by patting the area gently with a clean towel.
- Once you finish drying, apply skin moisturizing lotions. This will avoid any irritation or burns.
- Give your labia a break! Stop shaving until your skin gets completely healed from any infection.
8. Safety guidelines for shaving the pubic hair:
The skin present in the labia is very different from the skin on other parts of the body. It is very thin and less taut. It also has more nerves ending at its surface which makes it more sensitive for shaving. But if you follow the following safety guidelines you would get a scar-free shaving experience along with a smooth fur-free vagina.
- It is given that you cannot see your vaginal area properly during the shaving process. So, you can use a hand mirror to see clearly and to avoid any cuts.
- You can cut the long hairs with a sharp scissor before shaving.
- Warm water helps in softening the pubic hair which in turn eases the process of shaving.
- Gently exfoliate the skin with pH-balanced shaving cream or gel. This will help to loosen up the trapped hairs.
- Always use a sharp razor for a neat and closer shave.
- Sterilize the razor before you use it.
- Start shaving with slow movements in the direction of the hair growth.
- Do not forget to rinse your razor in warm water after every single stroke.
- Once you finish shaving, rinse your skin in a warm shower and dry your skin gently by patting it with a towel.
- Develop a post-shave care routine by applying a lotion or moisturizer. Hydrating the skin is a must to avoid any irritation or itchiness.
9. Tips for shaved genitals:
Here are some additional tips on how to shave and how to take care of your skin and maintain it after the shave;
9.1. During hair removal:
•Razors with easy-grip:
For better control choose razors with an easy-to-grip handle, when you are shaving in the shower.
•Shower or bath mat:
Use a shower mat or bath mat to avoid any accidental slips and slides.
• Water temperature:
The temperature of the water should be neither too hot nor too cold. It has to be just warm.
9.2. After hair removal:
- Say no to tight lingerie: Very tight-fitting underwear can cause irritation to your just shaved soft vulva. Wearing cotton panties is a good solution.
- Do not expose your skin to the sun: Let your skin recover after shaving before you go out in your swimsuit to get a sunbathe or enjoy your time in the pool.
- Pay attention to abnormalities: If you see any abnormal changes in the labia, check with your dermatologist immediately to avoid any unnecessary complications.
10. Conclusion:
Most of the girls shave their pubes because their partners ask them to do so or they would like to look better for their gynaecologist visits. Ultimately, what you do with your hair, whether you trim, shave or leave it natural, is all up to your preferences.