Pubic hair removal is completely aesthetic. Maybe you do it without thinking about it, for cultural reasons. But have you ever wondered if it is really necessary? (1) 

Pubic hair in women is the hair that grows in the genital area. It covers the mons pubis and extends into the inguinal and perineal region. It is a natural feature of the human body (2), so before you consider removing it, join us in discovering why it exists. That way, you will be more careful the next time you do it. 

What are the functions of hair?  

If you proceed with pubic hair removal, you should understand that you are doing something unnatural. After all, we are mammals, and hair coverage is part of our species (2). The hair is there to serve several functions. The most important are the following: 

• Barrier against microorganisms. The hairs all over the skin are one more element of defense against external agents (3). 

• Temperature regulation. Mammals have various mechanisms to maintain a stable body temperature. This ensures that our body functions normally (4). The hair covering the skin is one of these mechanisms that contributes to thermal equilibrium. 

• Protection of vaginal balance. The environment created by the presence of pubic hair contributes to the diversity of the vaginal flora. In general, women who completely shave the area undergo changes in their microbiota (5). 

• Prevention of irritations. Both underwear and sexual intercourse generate friction in the pubis. However, the hair in the area reduces this friction (2). 

What risks does hair removal entail? 

You already know the functions of hair, so it is time to understand the risks of total hair removal. While these are not serious problems, it is important to be aware of them: 

• Increased irritation. Removing the hair by shaving, waxing or creams can cause inflammation and open wounds. Remember that pubic skin is very sensitive (2,6). 

• Ingrown hairs. Waxing increases the presence of hairs that grow inside the hair follicle, that is, without going outside. These hairs are painful and prone to infection (7). 

• Increased risk of infection. By losing the protective function of the hair, microorganisms can proliferate more easily in the pubis (2,3). 

How to remove hair safely step by step  

Undeniably, removing the hair from the pubis is a personal decision and, in part, a cultural one. The important thing is that, if you decide to do it, you take a few precautions. This will certainly protect your intimate area (1,8). So, to minimize the risks, follow these steps (2,6): 

1. Trim the pubic hair with scissors. 
2. Apply a depilatory cream or moisturizing gel to the pubic area. You can also use soapy water for the same purpose. 
3. If you are going to use blades, make sure they are sharp. Then, shave in the same direction the hair grows. If you prefer waxing, please strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions. 
4. Finally, apply a moisturizing cream. 

Ideally, do not expose the waxed area to the sun for the first few days. Also, wear cotton underwear, which is less irritating (6). As for the laser method, this is only performed by professionals (2,9). 

When is hair removal not recommended?  

There are situations in which it is advisable to avoid complete hair removal in the intimate area. Beyond personal choice, these are circumstances in which it is discouraged for health reasons (2,6). 

Firstly, it should be delayed when there are serious skin problems in the pubic area. For example, active infections or open wounds. Also, if you are going through a period of irritation with dermatitis or have vaginal yeast infections or vaginitis (6).  

Another time to be careful is the two weeks prior to gynecological surgery, as it is preferable not to irritate the pubic area or cause small wounds that can later become infected. In any case, it will be the medical team who will give you the indications on whether to trim the hair or not (2). 

In conclusion, pubic hair removal will depend on your choice, on your preferences. Do not feel obliged by fashion or cultural pressure. And if you do wax, do not forget our recommendations to do it safely. 

Bibliographic References 

1. Craig LK, Gray PB. Pubic hair removal practices in cross-cultural perspective. Cross Cult Res [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2024 Feb 16];53(2):215–37. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1069397118799298

2. Cummings HW. To Shave or Not to Shave: An Ob-Gyn’s Guide to Pubic Hair Care [Internet]. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16]. Available from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/to-shave-or-not-to-shave-an-ob-gyns-guide-to-pubic-hair-care

3. Galbarczyk A, Marcinkowska UM, Klimek M, Jasienska G. Extreme pubic hair removal as a potential risk factor for recurrent urinary tract infections in women. Sci Rep [Internet]. 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16];13(1). Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-46481-6

4. Kim JY, Dao H. Physiology, Integument. StatPearls Publishing; 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554386/

5. Geynisman-Tan J, Kenton K, Tavathia M, Yee A, Gilbert JA, Collins S, et al. Bare versus hair: Do pubic hair grooming preferences dictate the urogenital microbiome? Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2024 Feb 16];27(9):532–7. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33181518/

6. Mezin-Sarbu E, Wohlrab J. Epilation and depilation in the genital area – motivation, methods, risks and recommendations from a dermatological point of view. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges [Internet]. 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16];21(5):455–62. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/ddg.14993

7. National Health System. Ingrown hairs [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-hairs/

8. Enzlin P, Bollen K, Prekatsounaki S, Hidalgo L, Aerts L, Deprest J. “to shave or not to shave”: Pubic hair removal and its association with relational and sexual satisfaction in women and men. J Sex Med [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2024 Feb 16];16(7):954–62. Available from: https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article-abstract/16/7/954/6980603

9. 9. National Health System. Laser hair removal [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2023 [cited 2024 Feb 16]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/non-surgical-cosmetic-procedures/laser-hair-removal/