Pubic hair removal is chosen for aesthetic, cultural, sexual, or medical reasons. Options range from trimming and shaving to waxing, laser, and electrolysis. Each method has benefits and risks - skin irritation, ingrown hairs, and burns are common concerns. Electrolysis is used when permanent removal is needed. People having genital surgery should consult their surgical team about preoperative hair removal.

Why people remove pubic hair

People remove pubic hair for many reasons: personal preference, cultural or religious norms, sexual aesthetics, perceived hygiene, or as part of gender-affirming care. Trends have shifted since the 2000s - trimmed or completely removed styles (for example, the "Brazilian") are common, and male grooming ("manscaping") has become mainstream.

Pubic hair also has biological roles. It can reduce friction, provide padding, and may help trap skin odors or pheromones. It also signals sexual maturity. Removing hair changes those functions and can affect skin barrier and local microbiology.

Common hair-removal methods

Trimming and shaving

Trimming with scissors or clippers keeps hair short without skin trauma. Shaving removes hair at the skin surface and is fast and inexpensive. It carries risks of nicks, irritation, ingrown hairs, and folliculitis if the skin is not prepped and cared for.

Depilatory creams

Chemical depilatories dissolve hair at the skin surface. They work quickly but can cause allergic or chemical burns on sensitive genital skin - always patch-test first.

Waxing and sugaring

Waxing and sugaring remove hair from the root and keep skin smooth for weeks. They can be done professionally or at home. Risks include pain, skin lifts, burns (from hot wax), and ingrown hairs.

Epilators and threading

Mechanical epilators pull hair from the follicle and are useful for longer-lasting removal. Threading is less common for pubic hair but can be used for small areas.

Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL)

Laser and IPL devices target pigment in hair to reduce regrowth. They are widely used for long-term reduction; results vary by hair color and skin tone, and multiple sessions are needed. These treatments require trained providers to reduce risk of burns and pigment changes. Note that regulatory language distinguishes permanent hair reduction from guaranteed permanent removal - see Verification To-Dos.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis targets individual follicles and is recognized as a method for permanent hair removal when performed correctly. It's commonly used when permanent removal is needed, for example before some gender-affirming surgeries.

Safety and aftercare

Any removal method can irritate genital skin. Follow basic steps: clean the area, use a fresh blade or sterile instrument, avoid tight clothing while skin recovers, and delay sexual activity if the skin is broken. If you develop spreading redness, pus, or fever after hair removal, see a clinician.

Special considerations

People undergoing vaginoplasty or other genital surgeries are often advised to remove hair from donor tissue or the surgical field beforehand to prevent hair-bearing tissue inside a reconstructed canal. Methods, timing, and provider recommendations vary - discuss options with the surgical team.

Pubic hair removal is a personal choice. Understand methods, benefits, and risks, and choose an approach that fits your body, skin type, and health needs.

  1. Confirm current FDA/regulatory wording distinguishing 'permanent hair reduction' (lasers/IPL) versus 'permanent hair removal' (electrolysis) as of 2025-08-24.
  2. Verify studies and strength of evidence linking pubic hair grooming to higher self-reported STI rates or other health outcomes.
  3. Confirm common preoperative hair-removal recommendations for vaginoplasty and which methods/timelines are typically advised by surgical centers.

FAQs about Genital Hair Removal

Is pubic hair removal unhygienic or necessary for cleanliness?
No. Pubic hair itself is not unhygienic. Some people prefer removal for personal comfort or aesthetic reasons. If you remove hair, follow hygiene practices to reduce irritation and infection risk.
Which method gives the most permanent result?
Electrolysis destroys individual follicles and is used for permanent hair removal. Laser and IPL provide long-term reduction for many people but typically require maintenance sessions.
Can pubic hair removal increase infection risk?
Removal methods that break the skin (shaving, waxing) can temporarily increase risk of irritation, folliculitis, or secondary infection. Proper technique and aftercare reduce risks.
Should people having gender-affirming genital surgery remove hair beforehand?
Many surgical teams recommend preoperative removal of hair from donor or surgical sites to prevent hair growth inside reconstructed genital tissue. Discuss timing and method with your surgeon.
Are chemical depilatories safe for the genital area?
They can be, but the genital skin is sensitive. Always do a patch test, follow product directions, and stop use if you get burning or a rash.