Everything you need to know about Pubic Hair

Naturally long and curly, groomed and short, styled or completely removed. Regardless of how it looks, we all grow pubic hair, but what is it really?

Pubic hair is hair that grows in and around some areas of your V-zone ^[1] (vulva, vagina, and mons pubis). It's called pubic hair because it grows on the pubis, the V-shaped part in front of your pelvis. However, that's not the only place pubic hair can grow! You can find it on the inside of your thighs, next to your vulva (labia), and extending down the back of your body to your buttocks. It's all completely normal.

Why do we have pubic hair?

Pubic hair is there for a reason. These little hairs are helpful. Your pubic hair is a barrier that protects you from harmful bacteria and viruses entering your body. In the same way eyelashes prevent dust and microorganisms from entering your eyes, pubic hair protects you from infections by trapping sweat, sebum, and bacteria.

The layer of hair also decreases friction, acting as a buffer that prevents the skin in your V-Zone from becoming irritated from rubbing while exercising, having sex, or engaging in other activities. It's there because you would put down a fluffy mat to protect your feet from the floor. Because of this, it has even been referred to as a "dry lubricant" ^[1]. One study found that pubic hair can reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections ^[2].

When will I start getting pubic hair?

Pubic hair growth is one of the first signs you can identify when you reach puberty. At first, it may be a few thin hairs. After about a year or so, the hair becomes thicker and curlier. It may even become darker than your hair.

It can be a shock when it starts to grow, but you'll get used to it quickly! Everyone enters puberty when the time is right for them. Don't worry or compare yourself to others. All bodies grow at different speeds and in various ways, and that's okay.

In addition to pubic hair growth in your intimate area, you may grow thicker, darker hair in your armpits. Other changes, like getting your first period or developing breasts, are a normal part of puberty.

Removing hair in the intimate area

We all have pubic hair - it's completely normal, and leaving it as it is is okay. Some people groom the hair around their intimate area in a way that looks and feels good to them. Just like the hair on your head, everyone has a preference. Some use it to express themselves, some style it to suit their lifestyle, and some prefer avoiding all that trouble. That's right!

While it's common for people of all genders to remove some or all of their pubic hair, whatever you decide - even leaving it as it grows - is entirely up to you. Keeping pubic hair can bring some benefits, but removing it won't affect your health. It just means spending more time maintaining it.

Everything from light grooming to complete removal will require shaving, depilatory creams, or waxing. A more expensive option but with a long-term effect is laser hair removal treatments. Many women try several techniques before deciding what works best for them. Do what works best for your lifestyle and makes you feel good - even if that means doing nothing!

Intimate Hygiene and Pubic Hair

If you decide to groom your pubic hair in any way, there are several things to consider to maintain the health of the sensitive skin in your intimate area.

Be gentle when shaving

When using a razor, be extremely gentle. Even the slightest tear in the skin can put you or your sexual partner at greater risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. If you prefer to shave, watch for cuts around your intimate area.

Soothe sensitivity after shaving

You will find that your skin is sensitive after shaving or using a depilatory cream. Avoid wearing tight clothing, as the friction in this area will irritate or make it sore. Usually, your skin will settle down in a couple of days. Otherwise, check that your razor, cream, or foam is appropriate for your skin type.

If you want something to minimize the risk of irritation to your intimate area after hair removal, try our Saba^® Sensiti-V™ Intimate Wash. We recommend waiting a few hours after the treatment to bathe. Use this time to read, listen to your favorite album, or apply a facial mask while you wait.

Avoid ingrown hairs

Waxing is popular because it gives a smooth finish lasting for weeks. However, it can cause ingrown hairs.  With a gentle exfoliation in the shower, you can prevent this.

The intimate hygiene routine for you

You'll notice that occasionally, your V-Zone holds a little sweat.  A quick shower will help you feel comfortable, especially after exercise or sex. If regular soap irritates your skin, our Saba^® Sensiti-V™ Intimate Wash is gentle.  It won't alter pH levels, making you less prone to infection and dryness.

For some situations where a shower isn't an option (like music festivals), our Saba^® Sensiti-V™ Wet Wipes can be handy in your bag. They freshen you up quickly and won't disturb the beneficial bacteria on your skin like the rest of our products.

Whatever you do with your pubic hair, the important thing is that you have a healthy, happy V-Zone and a hygiene routine that works for you.

References

^[1] https://www.jsm.jsexmed.org/article/S1743-6095(15)32624-2/fulltext

^[2] https://sti.bmj.com/content/93/3/162

Consult your physician: The medical information in this article is provided as an informational resource only and should not be used or relied upon for diagnostic or treatment purposes. Remember to read the instructions that come inside the packaging of your tampons. Consult your physician for guidance on a specific medical condition.