Shaving pubic hair: Should I be shaving my pubic hair?

Whether you choose to or not, shaving pubic hair is a personal choice that can be influenced by various factors, including hygiene and appearance. Some individuals may prefer a close shave, while others are content with a simple trim from time to time. If you’re questioning, ‘should I be shaving my pubic hair’ it’s important to consider the potential benefits and risks of shaving pubic hair, enabling you to make an informed decision.

 

In this guide, we’ll address the following:

 

• Should you shave pubic hair?
• Shaving benefits: Is it good to shave pubes?
• Things to consider: Is it bad to shave pubic hair?
• Pre-shaving tips: How should I shave my pubic hair
• What can I use to shave my pubes?
• How often should you shave your pubes?

 

By the end, you should have a better idea of whether shaving pubic hair is for you!

Should I be shaving my pubic hair?

 

Pubic hair grows to protect us from friction, sweat and bacteria, much like the hair around your ears, eyes and nose. While everyone can grow pubic hair, its texture and growth rate can vary from person to person which can influence why someone may want to try shaving their pubic hair.

 

Shaving pubic hair is a personal choice that varies based on individual preferences. If you are content with your pubic hair, you are fully entitled to leave it as is!

Should you shave pubic hair: The benefits

 

Is it good to shave your pubes? Well, to answer this question, there are a couple of potential benefits of shaving your pubic hair that make it a popular choice for some:

 

• Hygiene: Pubic hair is not inherently unhygienic if it is properly looked after. However, shaving may help reduce sweat and odour that could accumulate in the hair follicles. 
• Comfort: Some individuals may find that wearing certain clothing or participating in sports can be difficult with thick pubic hair as it can cause friction. 
• Aesthetics: Smooth skin down there can be preferable for aesthetic reasons, allowing you to look and feel your best.
• Easier than alternative hair removal methods: Shaving can be a quick and simple alternative to other hair removal methods like waxing and laser hair removal.
  

Is it okay to shave pubes: Things to consider

 

While a shaved pubic area can be aesthetically pleasing, there is a level of risk involved if it’s not done properly. Some of these risks include:

 

• Ingrown hairs: A common cause of ingrown hairs down there is shaving, as it can cause hair to grow into the skin rather than out onto the surface.
• Shaving bumps and razor burn: The skin around your pubic area is sensitive, making it more prone to shaving bumps, razor burn and irritation.
• Higher risk of bacteria and infections: Tiny cuts or nicks on the skin caused by shaving can provide easier entry points for bacteria, viruses and potentially STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).¹

How should I shave my pubic hair?

 

If you’re wondering ‘how do I shave my pubes safely’, following these best practices before, during and after shaving can help reduce the risk of irritation and ingrown hairs that tend to arise from poor grooming. 

 

1. Prep the skin
   
   For those wanting to know how to shave your pubes, prepping the skin beforehand is an essential step that shouldn’t be skipped. Some important considerations you could take include:
   
   • Trimming long pubic hairs could prevent your shaver from pulling on your hair and getting clogged.
   • Exfoliating the area with a gentle exfoliant, to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs from forming.
   • Hydrating and softening your pubic hair in the bath or shower before shaving. 
   
   
2. Equip the right tools
   
   Are you wondering, ‘what can I use to shave my pubes’? The tools and products you use are pivotal to the success of your shave. So, before you attempt to shave down there, it may be helpful to have these items in your arsenal:
   
   • A lubricating shaving cream or foam, for a smoother and comfortable shave.
   • A clean, skin-friendly shaver, such as the Philips OneBlade Intimate
   • A fragrance-free moisturiser or soothing agent
   
   
3. Shave carefully
   
   It’s time to begin shaving! Apply a generous amount of lubricating shaving cream or foam to the area and equip your chosen shaver. To reduce irritation, shave in the direction of hair growth and glide your shaver across your skin using gentle, light strokes. After every couple of strokes, rinse the shaver to remove hair buildup. Remember, take your time and don’t rush – you don’t want to nick yourself.
   
   For those looking for an easy and skin-friendly intimate shave, the Philips OneBlade Intimate is your number one companion. The OneBlade Intimate features rounded tips and a skin protection plate, ensuring optimal balance between hair-catching and skin-friendliness.
   
   
4. Aftercare
   
   Once you’re happy with the quality of your shave, rinse the area with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel. You can then apply a fragrance-free lightweight moisturiser or soothing agent like aloe vera to calm the skin after shaving. For optimal results, you should avoid wearing tight-fitted clothing for the first couple of hours after shaving to reduce friction and irritation.
   

How often should you shave your pubes?

 

There is no set rule for how often you should shave your pubes. Your shaving frequency may vary based on factors such as hair growth rate, skin sensitivity, or personal preference. 

 

You should try and give your skin time to heal between shaving sessions, so avoid shaving pubic hair every day.

 

When it comes to shaving pubic hair, there is no obligation to do so. However, if you do decide to shave down there, following the right advice and aftercare guidance is crucial for achieving a satisfying shave that makes you feel comfortable and confident!

 

Sources:
¹ Correlation between pubic hair grooming and STIs: results from a nationally representative probability sample, BMJ Journals