Hairy toes: Should I shave toe hair?

From fine, light-coloured wisps to thicker, darker strands, hairy toes are more common than you might think. This is completely normal, too, and whether or not you have hair on your toes is most likely down to genetics and hormones. But having hairy toes can make some people feel a little self-conscious. And if you want to go barefoot with confidence or step into a pair of strappy sandals, we’ve put together top tips for how to get rid of hair on toes. 

Why do I have toe hair?

 

If you’re wondering ‘is toe hair normal?’, you’ll be happy to hear that for most people, hair on toes is completely natural and harmless. Around 98% of males and 92% of females have them, and your toe hair is most likely caused by genetics.¹

 

But, why do I have toe hair suddenly? There are a few cases where an underlying condition, such as hormone disorders like hirsutism, can cause you to unexpectedly grow more toe hair.² Certain medications can also affect hair growth, leading to its sudden appearance on your feet. If you’re concerned your hairy toes might have a more serious root cause, we recommend speaking to your GP.

Should I shave toe hair?

 

Whether you get rid of toe hair is an entirely personal choice. Leaving it on your feet isn’t an issue and won’t cause any problems to your health. Some people, though, prefer a smooth, hair-free look. In this case, there’s also nothing wrong with learning how to remove toe hair; just make sure you always use the right tools and follow the top tips in this article to get rid of it safely.

How to get rid of hair on your toes

 

If you want to get rid of toe hair, there are a few different methods you can use to remove it. The approach you choose depends on your skin type and personal grooming goals. The main methods to remove toe hair are:

 

• Shaving: This method is quick and easy, but can lead to skin sensitivity and ingrown hairs if you don’t prep the skin properly. Shaving toes is also a short-term method, and you’re likely to see regrowth within a few days.
• Waxing: Waxing pulls hair from the root, leaving skin smoother for longer. It can also potentially make the regrowth of hair on toes finer, but it can be painful, cause a lot of irritation, and may need to be done professionally.
• Plucking: This is a precise method of toe hair removal that plucks the hair from the root. It’s easier to do at home than waxing, but it can be a slow and painful process, with the increased potential for ingrown hairs.
• Hair removal creams: A high-quality hair removal cream is a quick, painless way to remove toe hair with longer-lasting results than shaving. It can cause irritation for sensitive skin, though, with harsh chemicals making it vital you patch test first to avoid allergic reactions.

 

For a precise and simple solution to how to remove toe hair, try the Philips OneBlade or the Philips OneBlade Intimate . The 360 blade flexes to the shape of your toes, making it easier to reach all of your hair without nicking the skin. The fast-moving cutter is designed for both short and longer lengths, making light work of toe hair removal for a super smooth finish without any pain. It’s the comfortable choice for hair-free feet.

Shaving toes to remove hair from feet

 

If you’re considering, ‘should I shave toe hair?’ to achieve a smooth finish, it’s a great option for your feet. Quick and easy, you can get rid of toe hair as part of your at-home grooming routine, and it’s generally painless if you follow advice to avoid shaving cuts and irritation.

 

Follow these shaving top tips to effectively remove toe hair:

 

1. Prep your skin by washing with warm water, which will soften the hair for a less abrasive shave.
2. Hold the OneBlade flat against your skin and glide it gently over your toes, following the natural shape of your foot. The flexible 360 blade helps you reach tricky spots without pressing too hard, reducing the risk of cuts.
3. Take your time around the knuckles and sides of your toes; these are the areas more prone to nicks if rushed.
4. Pat the skin dry and apply a fragrance-free moisturiser to lock in moisture and reduce irritation.

 

Make sure you always use a clean, sharp blade and avoid shaving your toes while dry to reduce razor burn. You can also read our article on how to shave properly  for more grooming advice.

 

While the answer to ‘is toe hair normal?’ is a definite yes, following these steps will help you get rid of it safely for a smooth finish. If hair-free feet will boost your confidence, there’s nothing wrong with learning how to remove toe hair. Just remember to choose a method that’s right for you! 

Sources:

¹ A Study of the Distribution of Phalangeal Hair on the Hands and Toes of Bowen University Students, ResearchGate

² Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism), NHS