How To Shave Your Private Parts

The Complete Guide to Pubic Hair Grooming: Safety, Health, and Best Practices
Pubic hair grooming has become increasingly common in modern society, with many people choosing to trim, shave, or remove their pubic hair for aesthetic, hygienic, or personal preference reasons. However, as grooming practices have evolved, so too has our understanding of the health implications and best practices for safe intimate grooming. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about pubic hair care, from the health considerations to step-by-step grooming techniques for all genders.
Growing Trend: Recent surveys indicate that over 80% of women and 50% of men in Western countries have removed some or all of their pubic hair at least once. However, emerging research suggests that complete removal may carry certain health risks that should be considered before making grooming decisions.
Understanding Pubic Hair: Purpose and Health Considerations
Before diving into grooming techniques, it's important to understand why pubic hair exists and what role it plays in your body's natural functions.
The Natural Functions of Pubic Hair
Protection
Pubic hair acts as a natural barrier, protecting the delicate genital skin from friction, bacteria, and potential pathogens. It cushions against rubbing during physical activity and sexual intercourse, reducing the risk of abrasions and skin irritation.
Temperature Regulation
Like other body hair, pubic hair helps regulate temperature in the genital area, keeping it neither too hot nor too cold for optimal reproductive health.
Pheromone Distribution
Pubic hair helps trap and distribute pheromones—chemical signals that play a role in sexual attraction and arousal.
Health Considerations and Risks
Important Health Information: A growing body of research suggests that pubic hair removal, particularly complete removal, may increase certain health risks. Studies have found associations between regular grooming and increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), skin infections, and other complications. The removal process can create micro-tears in the skin that may serve as entry points for bacteria and viruses.
According to research published in medical journals, pubic hair removal has been linked to:
- Increased STI risk: Studies show that individuals who remove pubic hair may have a slightly elevated risk of certain STIs due to micro-abrasions in the skin
- Skin infections: Folliculitis, ingrown hairs, and bacterial infections are more common in groomed areas
- Skin irritation: Razor burn, bumps, and allergic reactions to grooming products
- Minor injuries: Cuts, nicks, and abrasions from grooming tools
These risks don't mean you shouldn't groom—they simply mean you should do so safely and with full awareness of best practices.
Grooming Methods: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices
There are several methods for managing pubic hair, each with distinct advantages and considerations. Your choice should depend on your personal preferences, skin sensitivity, and desired results.
Method 1: Trimming with Electric Clippers or Scissors
The Safest Option
Trimming keeps hair short and manageable without removing it completely, maintaining the natural protective benefits while achieving a groomed appearance. This is considered the safest grooming method by many healthcare professionals.
✓ Pros
- Lowest risk of cuts and infections
- Maintains natural protection
- No razor burn or ingrown hairs
- Quick and easy maintenance
- Less irritation
✗ Cons
- Doesn't provide completely smooth result
- Requires regular maintenance
- May need special trimmer for sensitive areas
Best for: Those who want a groomed appearance without the risks of complete removal, people with sensitive skin, and anyone new to pubic grooming.
Recommended tools: Use a dedicated body grooming trimmer with adjustable guards, or carefully use grooming scissors with rounded tips. Never use the same tools on your face and pubic area—maintain separate grooming equipment for hygiene.
Method 2: Shaving with a Razor
For Smooth Results
Shaving provides the smoothest result but requires careful technique and proper preparation to avoid irritation, cuts, and ingrown hairs.
✓ Pros
- Smoothest results
- Affordable and accessible
- Can be done at home
- Results last several days
✗ Cons
- Higher risk of cuts and nicks
- Razor burn and irritation common
- Ingrown hairs frequent
- Requires frequent maintenance (every 2-3 days)
- Can cause micro-abrasions
Best for: Those who prefer completely smooth skin and are willing to invest time in proper technique and aftercare.
Recommended products: Use a dedicated razor for intimate grooming—ideally one designed specifically for sensitive areas. Pair with a high-quality intimate shaving cream or gel and follow with soothing aftershave balm to minimize irritation.
Method 3: Waxing or Sugaring
Longer-Lasting Smoothness
Waxing and sugaring remove hair from the root, providing smooth results that last 3-6 weeks. These methods are best performed by professionals for intimate areas.
✓ Pros
- Results last 3-6 weeks
- Hair grows back finer over time
- No razor bumps or stubble
- Less frequent maintenance needed
✗ Cons
- Painful process
- Higher cost (especially professional services)
- Risk of burns from hot wax
- Possible ingrown hairs
- Requires hair to be certain length
- Risk of skin infections if not done properly
Best for: Those seeking longer-lasting results and willing to tolerate temporary discomfort. Professional waxing is strongly recommended over at-home attempts in the pubic area.
Method 4: Depilatory Creams
Use with Extreme Caution: Depilatory creams use chemicals to dissolve hair and can cause severe burns or allergic reactions in the sensitive genital area. Many products explicitly warn against use on genitals. If you choose this method, use only products specifically formulated for intimate areas and always perform a patch test first.
Method 5: Laser Hair Removal or Electrolysis
Permanent or Semi-Permanent Solutions
Professional laser treatments and electrolysis offer long-term hair reduction or removal. These methods require multiple sessions and significant financial investment but can provide lasting results.
Best for: Those committed to long-term hair removal and able to invest in professional treatments over several months.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Safely Trim or Shave Pubic Hair
Whether you're grooming for the first time or refining your technique, following these steps will help you achieve the best results while minimizing risks.
For Trimming (Recommended Starting Point)
Gather Your Tools
You'll need: a dedicated body trimmer with guards, good lighting, optionally a handheld mirror for better visibility, and clean towels. Never use facial grooming tools on your pubic area—maintain separate equipment for hygiene purposes.
Choose Your Length
Start with a longer guard setting (6-9mm) to see how you like the length before going shorter. You can always trim more, but you can't add hair back! Many people find that a short trim (3-6mm) provides a groomed appearance while maintaining the natural benefits of pubic hair.
Trim When Dry
Unlike shaving, trimming works best on dry hair. Make sure the area is clean and completely dry before beginning. Stand or sit in a comfortable position with good lighting.
Trim Systematically
Work in sections, moving the trimmer against the direction of hair growth for the closest trim. Hold the skin taut with your free hand to create a smooth surface. Take your time, especially around sensitive areas and skin folds.
Clean and Moisturize
After trimming, shower to remove loose hairs. Pat the area dry and apply a gentle, fragrance-free intimate moisturizer if desired. Clean your trimmer thoroughly according to manufacturer instructions.
For Shaving (Advanced Grooming)
Pro Tip: If you're new to pubic shaving or haven't shaved in a while, always trim the hair short with scissors or clippers first. This prevents razor clogging and makes the shaving process much smoother and safer.
Pre-Shave Trimming
If hair is longer than about 5mm, use grooming scissors with rounded tips or a trimmer to shorten it first. This crucial step prevents razor clogging and reduces pulling during the shave.
Soften Hair and Skin
Take a warm shower or bath for at least 5-10 minutes before shaving. Warm water softens both hair and skin, making the shave smoother and reducing the risk of cuts. This is the single most important step for preventing irritation.
Apply Shaving Product
Use a generous amount of shaving gel or cream specifically designed for sensitive skin. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to further soften the hair. Never shave dry or with just water—this significantly increases irritation risk.
Use the Right Razor
Use a clean, sharp razor dedicated exclusively to pubic grooming. Multi-blade razors designed for sensitive skin work well. Consider razors specifically shaped for navigating intimate curves, which can be more maneuverable than standard designs.
Critical Safety Rule: Never use the same razor for your face, legs, underarms, and pubic area. Maintain a separate razor exclusively for intimate grooming to prevent cross-contamination and maintain optimal hygiene. Replace blades regularly—dull blades increase irritation and infection risk.
Shave with Care
Hold skin taut with your free hand and shave in the direction of hair growth (with the grain) using light, gentle strokes. Rinse the blade after each stroke. For the closest shave, you can carefully shave against the grain after the initial pass, but this significantly increases ingrown hair risk.
- Use short strokes rather than long sweeping motions
- Don't apply pressure—let the razor's weight do the work
- Rinse frequently to prevent clogging
- Take your time, especially around sensitive areas and folds
- Use a handheld mirror to see difficult areas
Rinse and Inspect
Rinse thoroughly with cool water to close pores and remove all shaving product. Gently pat (don't rub) the area dry with a clean towel. Inspect for any missed spots or nicks.
Aftercare is Essential
Apply an alcohol-free, fragrance-free aftershave treatment or soothing gel with aloe vera. Products containing witch hazel can help prevent ingrown hairs. Avoid tight clothing for several hours to reduce friction on freshly shaved skin.
Preventing and Treating Common Grooming Issues
Razor Burn and Irritation
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention: Always shave after a warm shower, use plenty of shaving cream, shave with the grain, and don't apply pressure. Use a sharp, clean razor.
Treatment: Apply cooling aloe vera gel or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. Avoid further grooming until irritation heals. Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear.
Ingrown Hairs
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention: Exfoliate the area 2-3 times per week with a gentle intimate exfoliating scrub. Shave in the direction of hair growth. Moisturize daily with products containing salicylic acid.
Treatment: Don't pick or squeeze ingrown hairs. Apply warm compresses several times daily. Use specialized ingrown hair treatments. If infected or not improving after a week, consult a healthcare provider.
Cuts and Nicks
Immediate Care
For minor cuts: Rinse with cool water, apply pressure with clean gauze, and use a styptic pencil or alum block to stop bleeding. Apply antibiotic ointment and keep the area clean.
Seek medical attention if: Bleeding doesn't stop after 10 minutes of pressure, the cut is deep, signs of infection develop (increased redness, warmth, swelling, pus), or you have concerns about the injury.
Folliculitis (Infected Hair Follicles)
Watch for These Signs: Small red bumps or pus-filled blisters around hair follicles, tenderness or pain, itching, or crusting. Folliculitis can result from bacteria entering follicles damaged by grooming.
Treatment: Keep the area clean and dry, apply warm compresses, use antibacterial washes, and avoid further grooming until healed. If symptoms persist or worsen after 3-4 days, see a healthcare provider who may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.
Grooming Considerations for Different Genders
For Women and People with Vulvas
The vulvar area has many folds, sensitive skin, and varied topography, requiring extra care during grooming:
- Labia majora and minora: These areas are extremely delicate. If shaving, hold skin taut and use very gentle, careful strokes. Many people prefer to simply trim these areas rather than shave completely.
- Around the clitoris: Exercise extreme caution in this highly sensitive area. Trim only—never shave directly around the clitoris.
- Perianal area: If grooming near the anus, be especially careful and consider professional waxing instead of home shaving.
- Menstruation: Many people find they're more sensitive during menstruation. Consider timing grooming for other parts of your cycle.
Use a handheld mirror to see difficult areas clearly. Consider using specialized lighting for better visibility in the shower or bath.
For Men and People with Penises
Male genital grooming requires navigating irregular terrain and loose, sensitive skin:
- Shaft: When shaving the shaft, ensure the penis is fully erect or gently stretched to create a taut, smooth surface. Use extreme care around the frenulum (the sensitive band of tissue on the underside).
- Scrotum: The scrotal skin is incredibly thin and wrinkly. Hold the skin very taut while carefully shaving or trimming. Many men prefer just trimming this area to minimize injury risk. Consider using specialized trimmers designed for this area.
- Base and pubic mound: This flatter area is easier to shave but still requires care around the base of the penis.
- Perianal area: Use extreme caution or consider professional grooming for this difficult-to-reach area.
Popular Approach: Many men find that trimming the pubic area short (3-6mm) and shaving or closely trimming only the shaft and base provides a groomed appearance with minimal complication risk. This approach, sometimes called "manscaping," has become increasingly common.
Post-Grooming Care and Maintenance
Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours)
- Moisturize: Apply fragrance-free, alcohol-free moisturizer or specialized intimate aftercare products
- Avoid irritants: No perfumed products, tight clothing, or excessive sweating
- Skip sexual activity: Wait at least 24 hours after shaving to allow skin to recover
- No swimming: Avoid pools, hot tubs, or ocean swimming for 24-48 hours to prevent infection from chlorine or bacteria
- Wear breathable fabrics: Choose loose, cotton underwear to minimize friction and allow air circulation
Ongoing Care
- Exfoliate regularly: Use a gentle intimate area exfoliator 2-3 times per week to prevent ingrown hairs
- Moisturize daily: Keep the area hydrated with appropriate products
- Maintain tools: Clean and sanitize grooming tools after each use; replace razor blades regularly (after 5-7 uses maximum)
- Wait between grooming: Allow 2-3 days between shaving sessions to let skin recover
When to Avoid Grooming
Postpone grooming if you have:
- Active skin infections, rashes, or irritation
- Open cuts or wounds in the area
- Sunburn
- Recent waxing (wait 2-3 weeks before shaving)
- Plans for sexual activity within the next 24 hours
- An upcoming medical appointment where the doctor needs to examine the area
Important Medical Note: If you have a planned surgery or medical procedure in the pelvic area, do not shave immediately before—healthcare providers prefer to handle any necessary grooming using sterile techniques to minimize infection risk.
Sexual Health Considerations
Grooming and STI Risk
Research indicates a correlation between pubic hair removal and increased STI risk, though the relationship is complex. The proposed mechanism is that grooming creates micro-tears in the skin that can serve as entry points for pathogens.
To minimize risk while grooming:
- Always use clean, sharp tools and proper technique to minimize skin damage
- Wait 24-48 hours after grooming before sexual activity
- Consider trimming rather than complete removal as a compromise
- Practice safer sex regardless of grooming status—use condoms and dental dams appropriately
- Get regularly tested for STIs according to your healthcare provider's recommendations
Grooming Before Sexual Activity
If you groom for aesthetic reasons before sexual encounters, timing matters:
- Best timing: Groom 2-3 days before planned activity to allow any minor irritation to resolve
- Avoid same-day grooming: Freshly shaved skin is more vulnerable to irritation and micro-tears during friction
- Communicate: Discuss grooming preferences with partners—many people don't expect or require complete hair removal
- Use protection: Condoms and quality lubricants help protect sensitive, recently groomed skin during activity
Alternatives to Traditional Grooming
If traditional shaving or trimming doesn't work for you, consider these alternatives:
Embrace Your Natural State
There's absolutely nothing wrong with leaving your pubic hair in its natural state. Despite social pressures, pubic hair is normal, healthy, and serves important biological functions. If you're comfortable with your natural hair, there's no medical reason to remove it.
Minimal Grooming
Consider a "tidy up" approach: trim just the areas visible outside underwear or swimwear, leaving the rest natural. This provides a groomed appearance in clothing while minimizing grooming-related complications.
Professional Services
For special occasions or if you struggle with at-home grooming, professional waxing salons, especially those specializing in intimate waxing (Brazilian, Hollywood, etc.), can provide expert service with less risk of injury than inexperienced at-home attempts.
Premium Grooming Products for Intimate Care
Explore our carefully curated collection of intimate grooming products, including specialized trimmers, soothing aftercare treatments, and gentle skincare solutions. All products selected for safety and effectiveness in sensitive areas.
Conclusion: Making Informed Grooming Choices
Pubic hair grooming is a deeply personal choice with no "right" or "wrong" answer. Whether you choose to trim, shave, wax, or leave your pubic hair completely natural, the most important factors are your personal comfort, safety, and informed decision-making.
Key takeaways for safe grooming include:
- Understand both the benefits and risks of hair removal
- Use proper technique and dedicated tools to minimize complications
- Prioritize hygiene and aftercare to prevent infections
- Listen to your body—if a method causes persistent problems, try a different approach
- Remember that grooming is optional—natural pubic hair is healthy and normal
- Never feel pressured to groom to meet someone else's expectations
If you experience persistent skin issues, unusual symptoms, or concerns about your grooming practices, don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist who specializes in intimate health. They can provide personalized advice based on your skin type, health history, and concerns.
Your body, your choice—whatever grooming approach makes you feel most comfortable and confident is the right one for you.
Medical References and Research
Source: https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-shaving-or-waxing-my-pubic-hair-affect-my-std-risk-3133066
Referenced in multiple dermatology journals
Referenced in: https://www.kmobgyn.com/skin-care-down-there-tips-for-surviving-the-summer/
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/how-risky-is-it-to-shave-down-there/a-49352380
Source: https://youngmenshealthsite.org/guides/removing-pubic-hair/
Source: https://www.insider.com/how-to-prevent-razor-bumps-when-shaving-your-pubic-hair-2020-10
Referenced in multiple sexual health publications
Referenced in health education materials
Source: https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/lifestyle/hygiene-and-beauty/how-to-shave-pubic-hair
Source: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a9523926/pubic-hair-questions-tips/
Sources: https://www.manscaped.com/blogs/grooming/how-to-shave-your-pubic-hair-the-complete-guide, https://www.beardbrand.com/blogs/urbanbeardsman/manscaping
Referenced across multiple medical grooming guides
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist for personalized guidance on intimate grooming and skin health concerns.