Pubic hair: everything you need to know about its evolution, grooming, and connection to your hormones for a healthy body and lifestyle.
Okay, so pubic hair, huh? We’ve all got it (well, most of us!), but how much do we *really* know about it? Does it change as we get older? Is manscaping really all that necessary?
We’re gonna dive into the hairy truth (pun intended!). But first, here’s what we’ll be covering:
Let’s get started, shall we?
The Role It Plays
The genital area is, um, the area surrounding our external reproductive organs. And, yes, it grows hair – we know it as pubic hair; it’s one of the signs of puberty.
The amount and thickness of this hair varies. It’s different from person to person, just like hair in any other area of the body. A lot of factors influence the density and characteristics of this hair around that area and how we take care of it.
Waxing, shaving, laser hair removal, and other methods are common ways people deal with their pubic hair. Now, these are just some popular ways of removing hair from the area.
But is everything we hear about pubic hair and how we manage it actually beneficial for our health? Let’s find out.
The Evolution Over Time
Have you noticed that pubic hair might change as you age, just like other hair on your body?
With the onset of puberty, pubic hair often starts growing, typically appearing darker and coarser than the hair we had before. As we age, like the hair on our heads, it can turn gray. This is often linked to a decrease in melanin production. Major hormonal changes, such as those during menopause can cause our pubic hair to become thinner, and finer, just like the hair on our head.
Speaking of things we don’t often talk about… what about vaginal discharge? Did you know that the color, consistency, and even smell of your discharge can tell you a lot about your health? From bacterial infections to hormonal changes, it’s a good idea to know what’s normal for *your* body.
Are You Looking For a New Style?
A few years ago, the New York Times reported that leaving pubic hair as is, is, well, natural! According to one study, 84% of women leave their pubic hair alone without any hair removal. This is totally a personal preference, just like dyeing your hair, or getting a haircut.
However, sometimes maintaining or trimming this area can increase the risk of irritation, microbes, or infections.
If you’re someone who likes to groom their pubic hair, we recommend using healthy methods for grooming, because that area is super sensitive. It might also be a good idea to prep tools properly for a smooth trim, and careful exfoliation, avoiding products that might irritate the skin.
Hair removal isn’t only about aesthetics, and it can also impact the skin, causing itching, sensitivity, or ingrown hairs.
We recommend using a mild skin cleanser before grooming the area, and making sure to use products that are right for you! Remember to moisturize after you’re done grooming.
Peek into your hormones
Hormones are super important for your body and in fact, they could be behind changes if you aren’t aware.
If you have any hormonal imbalances, here are some signs to look out for: weight gain, mood swings, and abnormal hair growth somewhere other than where you want it and if you’re noticing changes in the hair down there, then we suggest seeing your doctor and getting checked out.
Changes in hair growth in this area can also point to underlying health problems, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) because they’re tied to hormonal imbalances like, higher levels of testosterone. So this is often reflected in hair growth in other places, like the face.
Sometimes, these changes are connected to certain medical conditions as well. High testosterone can be linked to:
PCOS.
Certain medications.
This may also be related to other symptoms, like acne, thinning scalp hair, and a deeper voice.
If you’re experiencing any of these things, we recommend checking with your doctor, and getting it addressed.
Key takeaways
- Pubic hair changes with age, just like the hair on your head, becoming thinner and grayer over time.
- How you choose to groom (or not groom!) is a personal choice, but be mindful of hygiene and potential irritation.
- Significant changes in pubic hair could be a sign of hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions, so talk to your doctor.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Does shaving make hair grow back thicker?
No, that’s a myth! Shaving only cuts the hair at the surface of the skin, not at the root. The hair may *appear* thicker because it has a blunt edge, but the actual thickness of the hair strand remains the same.
Is it more hygienic to remove all pubic hair?
Not necessarily. Pubic hair can provide a barrier against friction and bacteria. As long as you maintain good hygiene, having pubic hair is perfectly healthy. Removing it is a personal choice.
Can pubic hair prevent STIs?
No, pubic hair does not prevent STIs. The best way to prevent STIs is to practice safe sex, including using condoms and getting tested regularly.
Is it normal for pubic hair to be a different color than my head hair?
Yes, it’s perfectly normal! Just like hair on other parts of your body, pubic hair can have a different texture and color due to variations in pigment and hair follicle characteristics.
What if I get ingrown hairs after shaving or waxing?
Try exfoliating gently to remove dead skin cells that can trap the hair. You can also use products designed to prevent ingrown hairs. If the problem persists, consult a dermatologist.
I was so nervous before my first bikini wax, but the aesthetician was so reassuring. She explained everything clearly and made sure I was comfortable throughout the entire process. Now I feel so much more confident in my swimsuit!
I used to shave every day, but I was constantly dealing with razor burn and ingrown hairs. I switched to trimming with an electric trimmer, and it’s made a huge difference. My skin is so much happier now!
I’ve always been a bit self-conscious about my body hair, but I’m trying to embrace it more. I’ve stopped shaving and waxing, and honestly, it’s been so freeing. It’s my body, and I get to choose what to do with it.
So, after all this, what’s *my* takeaway? You know, it’s all about making informed choices and feeling good about *your* body. Whether you’re rocking the au naturel look, or prefer a meticulously groomed style, the important thing is that you’re doing what’s right for you. And, of course, keeping an eye on those hormones and health indicators! It’s like my grandma always said, “Take care of your body, and it’ll take care of you.” And, you know what, she was right.
