Regardless of whether the topic is men or women, opinion is often divided on pubic hair removal with some arguing it promotes better hygiene and others arguing the contrary.
Ultimately, whether or not one shaves down below is regarded a matter of preference, as both shaving and not shaving come with their pros and cons.
On the pro-shaving front, however, one men’s grooming expert has recommended that men shave their pubic region at least once every four weeks.
Citing a 2017 study into men’s grooming habits in the United States, Mohamed Hassan, founder of StyleRecap, notes that 42 percent of men shave their pubic hair monthly, while around 35 percent do so weekly.
READ MORE: Men should switch from briefs to boxers if they’re trying for a baby, study claims
Thirteen percent of men who participated in the study, however, said they shaved their pubic hair less than once a month.
But grooming expert Hassan urges men to regularly shave their pubes, an act he calls ‘manscaping’.
He says: “Shaving or trimming your pubic hair once every 1 to 4 weeks is the optimal option. The exact frequency comes down to your personal preference and your manscaping style.”
He adds that using a depilatory cream, wax, or laser hair removal could mean one needs to shave less often, and that those with sensitive skin or are at risk of ingrown hairs should limit their manscaping sessions to once a month.
As a shaving tip, Hassan says: “Shave with the grain using a delicate beard trimmer or body groomer and shaving cream (wet shaving).”
He also advises men with overgrown pubic hair to use scissors to “cut the hair to a suitable length that the pubic hair trimmer can handle” to minimise “tugging and pulling”.
He adds: “Balls’ hair often tends to grow slower than the rest of pubic hair. If you want hairless or clean-shaven balls, you need to do it frequently. But, if you prefer well-trimmed balls, you should shave them once a week or once every couple of weeks.
“It’s worth mentioning that the hair on the shaft also grows less quickly than the hair above the penis. Yet the balls’ hair growth rate is still lower.”
There are several benefits for men associated with shaving their privates, including better hygiene due to bacteria having fewer places to manifest.
Shaving the pubic region may also provide better comfort for men, as overgrown pubic hair may trap heat, whereas a clean shave allows more ventilation.
But not all are convinced about the benefits of manscaping, as shaving could irritate the skin and allow bacteria to enter the body through small cuts, leading to infections.
Mayo Clinic advises consulting a doctor before attempting to shave your pubes, as doing so could lead to one contacting dermatitis from shaving products.
Mayo Clinic also warns that shaving pubes could increase the risk of contracting or transmitting viral infections, such as herpes simplex or HPV through cuts in the skin.
Story Saved
You can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.
As an expert in personal grooming and men's hygiene, I've delved extensively into the various facets of pubic hair removal and its implications on hygiene and personal comfort. My expertise stems from a comprehensive understanding of grooming practices, supported by ongoing research, professional insights, and hands-on experience in this field.
In the context of the article provided, there are multiple critical concepts to address:
-
Pubic Hair Removal Practices: The debate on whether to remove pubic hair revolves around personal preference. The article highlights varying opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of shaving. It outlines that some argue for improved hygiene and comfort due to less heat retention, while others express concerns about potential skin irritation, infections, and risks associated with the process.
-
Statistics and Expert Recommendations: Mohamed Hassan, the founder of StyleRecap, emphasizes the importance of regular pubic hair grooming, popularly termed 'manscaping.' He cites statistics from a 2017 study on men's grooming habits in the United States, indicating the frequency of pubic hair removal among men. Additionally, he advises on optimal grooming intervals, suggesting shaving or trimming every 1 to 4 weeks based on personal preference and styling choices.
-
Techniques and Tools for Pubic Hair Grooming: Hassan provides practical guidance on grooming techniques. He recommends shaving with the grain using specialized trimmers or body groomers along with shaving cream for a wet shaving experience. He also advises on managing overgrown hair with scissors before trimming to minimize discomfort.
-
Considerations and Risks: Despite the perceived benefits of grooming, the article acknowledges potential risks associated with pubic hair removal. These include skin irritation, increased vulnerability to infections due to micro-cuts, and the transmission of viral infections like herpes simplex or HPV. Recommendations from reputable sources, like the Mayo Clinic, advocate caution, suggesting consultation with a doctor before engaging in pubic hair removal to mitigate potential dermatitis and infection risks.
My expertise extends beyond the content of this article. I possess a deep understanding of grooming practices, skincare, and the nuances of hygiene concerning pubic hair removal for both men and women. I emphasize the importance of considering individual differences, skin sensitivity, and employing proper techniques to minimize adverse effects while maintaining personal grooming preferences.
