Pubic Hair: What Do Men and Women Prefer?

In this article, the LOVE Team explores what men and women like best when it comes to pubic hair grooming . These preferences depend on fashion, health, and personal comfort. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, so it’s important to consider how these preferences play out in everyday life and in your intimate relationships.

People's views on pubic hair are constantly changing. This is often a reflection of different eras, cultures, and how bodies are represented within society. What is nowadays considered to be acceptable or even attractive wasn’t necessarily viewed in the same way even just a couple of years ago, and vice versa.

Pubic hair has been subject to distinct practices as far back as ancient times. In Egypt, full hair removal was a common practice, often associated with purity, hygiene and beauty rituals. Women used a sugar and resin mixture to remove hair, a technique not far from modern western practices. In both ancient Greece and Rome, the absence of pubic hair was often associated with youth and elegance.

Fast forward to the 20th century, more specifically the 60s and 70s, sexual liberation encouraged a return to an au naturel look. Being proud about one’s pubic hair became almost like a rebellious symbol against rigid, more modest beauty standards.

In the 90s and early 2000s, we saw another change taking place. The ever growing influence of the porn industry showcasing hairless bodies popularised the notion that a complete lack of body hair is a synonym for cleanliness and desirability. This trend featured highly in the fashion industry, where swimwear and underwear became smaller and smaller, leaving less room for hair.

Nowadays, there isn’t necessarily one dominating standard for pubic hair. Although hair removal remains a common practice, we’ve also witnessed a lot of body positive and feminist movements that highlight the importance of the ability to choose freely, explaining the uptick in a return to natural pubic hair. How people choose to groom themselves down there is no longer a simple question of aesthetics, but also a symbol of self confidence and a way of rejecting imposed beauty standards.

When it comes to pubic hair, everybody has a preference. Recent studies and anonymous testimonials have given us a bit of insight into pube preferences among men and women.

Preferences and trends amongst men are incredibly diverse. According to multiple recent surveys, around 40% of men say that they regularly maintain their pubic hair (trimming or shaving, either partially or fully), whereas 30% of men prefer to leave it as is, and the remaining 30% alternate depending on their partner’s preferences and their mood.

One anonymous testimonial reveals, "I find less hair to be more pleasant both visually and to the touch. But that’s just me. Other men might like a bushier look."

Another shares a different view, "For me, pubic hair isn’t an issue. What matters is the personality and that my partner cares enough to take care of their body."

With regard to style, men tend to opt for more discreet forms of maintenance (a light trim) or simply shaving around the edges, rather than full hair removal. Not every man does the same thing though, and this shows us that grooming your pubic hair can be seen as a form of self care, just like beard trimming or getting a hair cut.

Preferences and practices amongst women are also extremely varied. Studies show that around 50% of women opt for partial hair removal (landing strip, brazilian, freestyle), 20% opt for full removal, and 30% like to keep things natural.

Each woman has a different reason for their choices: some make their decision for purely aesthetic reasons, or for a feeling of ‘coolness’, others see pubic hair grooming as an obligation that they’d rather buy into. One woman described her experience saying “I spent a long time following trends, but nowadays I feel more free and comfortable with leaving my pubes how I like them. I’ve stopped conforming to other’s expectations.”

This diversity is accompanied by a larger movement of self acceptance. Nowadays, many women claim that hair should not be linked to their sensuality, but is simply a personal choice regarding their body.

Many healthcare professionals believe that the state of your pubic hair can have an impact on your health and well-being.

Properly caring for your pubic hair is not just about looking good; it’s also a question of hygiene and comfort. Regular grooming can reduce the risk of skin infections and reduce unwanted odours, for example. However, choosing the right hair removal method is important, as some techniques can lead to skin irritation, ingrown hairs, or other complications.

Experts advise handling the process gently, using products and tools that are appropriate for your skin type and sensitivity. For example, those who prefer shaving should use sharp blades and proper techniques to minimise cuts and irritation. When considering hair removal methods, selecting options that suit your skin sensitivity can help avoid adverse reactions.

In terms of hygiene, regular cleaning with mild products can keep the area healthy while maintaining the skin’s natural balance. You should be drying the area thoroughly after cleaning to prevent bacteria growth in moist conditions.

Personal comfort is also an important factor when it comes to choosing a pubic hair style. What is comfortable for one person might not be for another, affecting not only the choice of hair removal method but also how often it is performed.

While aesthetics are a personal matter, they should not take precedence over health and well-being. It’s up to you to find a balance between aesthetic preferences and healthy practices, as each body is unique and deserves to be treated with care and respect.

You should be asking yourself questions like, "Am I making this choice for myself, or to meet others' expectations?" and "How do I truly feel about my body?" These questions can help differentiate between what we think we want and what genuinely contributes to our well-being and self-esteem.

Saying "your body, your choice" is about valuing your personal decision-making when it comes to your physical appearance. Everyone should be embracing their own definition of comfort and aesthetics, free from external judgments. This approach not only promotes self-acceptance but also respects the choices of others, contributing to a more open and inclusive society.

The best method varies based on individual preferences, skin type, and grooming goals. Options include shaving, waxing, depilatory creams, and laser or electric hair removal. Each method has its pros and cons—for example, shaving is accessible but can lead to ingrown hairs, while laser hair removal offers longer-lasting results but requires a greater investment.

To minimise irritation and the risk of ingrown hairs, use a sharp razor, shave in the direction of hair growth, and apply a moisturising shaving gel. After shaving, applying a lotion or gel with aloe vera can soothe the skin. Gently exfoliating the area regularly can also help prevent ingrown hairs.

For shaving, choose razors designed for sensitive skin and hydrating shaving gels. If waxing, opt for products formulated for sensitive areas. For daily maintenance, prefer gentle cleansers and avoid scented products that might irritate. Light natural oils can be used to moisturise the skin and maintain its elasticity.

Depilatory creams can be used, but it's crucial to select formulas specifically designed for sensitive areas. Always perform a patch test on a small area to check your skin's reaction before more extensive application. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid chemical burns.

Laser hair removal provides a long-term reduction in hair growth, with many experiencing a significant decrease after several sessions. Drawbacks include the cost, the need for multiple treatments, and less effectiveness on very light hair or very dark skin. Consulting with a qualified professional can help determine if it’s the right option for you.

The way you choose to groom your pubic hair is a deeply personal journey, shaped by a mix of personal preferences, social norms, and health considerations. Ultimately, how you manage this intimate part of your body is entirely up to you. Whatever your decision, it’s the right one as long as it makes you happy and comfortable in your own skin. Embrace your individuality and respect others', for in the diversity of choices lies the beauty of the human experience.