Now that you're a woman, it's natural to want to be proud of your appearance, even in your more private areas.
Pubic hair is there for a reason and it's different for everyone. Pubic hair absorbs extra moisture (from sweating) and protects the special organs underneath. Some girls have lots of it; others have little, but sometimes it can get very 'bushy'! Don't worry; it's completely normal and nothing to be ashamed of!
How we deal with our pubic hair is different, too. Some girls choose to keep it natural and let it grow, while others prefer to remove it.
HOW DO I SHAVE MY PUBIC HAIR?
Shaving all your pubic hair all the time can be quite a mission. It can also be very uncomfortable when it grows back again! Most times it's okay to trim it and shave or wax the areas that will be exposed by the bikini line.
When shaving:
- Make sure your razor is clean and sharp enough to give you a smooth shave - but be careful of nicking (cutting) your skin
- Lather the area well to soften the hair and create a lubricating shaving lather
- Warm the blade by holding it under a running hot tap for a while
- Shave in the direction of the hair to prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs
If shaving is not for you, there are other inexpensive hair removal options you could consider:
- Hair removal lotions are available over the counter and tend to remove hair for longer than shaving. NB: Skin around the pubic area is very sensitive so try this on a portion of your leg before attempting pubic hair.
- Waxing is also a good idea in the long run and you can get it professionally done at certain spas or salons. It can be quite painful though!
Decide which method is more comfortable for you and go for it.
HOW DO I EXFOLIATE DOWN THERE?
The skin that makes up the labia (lips) covering your vagina is very sensitive and should only be washed with mild soap and water - no scrubbing or exfoliating is needed.
Many women who remove hair on their bikini lines will exfoliate to help prevent painful ingrown hairs. We recommend using a washcloth or sponge in the bath or shower to gently rub the skin on your bikini line, carefully avoiding your vagina.