Managing Excessive Pubic Hair: Tips for Teens Facing Challenges

Pubic hair issues

I'm currently a high school freshman, and everything about my development seems normal.
However, I have a concern: my pubic hair is quite abundant.
The hair length ranges from 8 to 12 centimeters, is curly, and appears particularly thick, especially compared to my peers.
This has caused several issues.
First, I often experience hair getting caught, which forces me to go to the bathroom to fix it.
As a result, I have developed a habit of pushing the hair to the sides before putting on pants.
This leads to a second issue: it looks unkempt.
My hair extends to my stomach, and there is a small patch on my thighs.
When I wear underwear, the hair on my thighs is not fully covered unless I wear boxers, but I’m not used to that style and feel uncomfortable in places where I need to change, like hot springs, swimming pools, or locker rooms.
Usually, when I take off my pants, my hair flares out, and I have to quickly avoid being seen.
For my first question, how can I trim my hair without it becoming coarse? I’ve tried trimming it once, but it grew back thicker and itchier, so I’ve been hesitant to cut it again, fearing it will become even coarser.
Secondly, I haven’t encountered this yet, but I might in the future: is hair removal something that should be done regularly, like every few months? I understand that hair removal involves pulling it out from the root, which I might not be able to do myself.
How long does it take to grow back, and is it painful? What is the difference between professional removal and trimming? Does professional removal result in less itching when it grows back? Does any cream prevent the hair from becoming coarse?
Thirdly, if I have a girlfriend in the future, will girls typically care about this? Will my situation cause any issues in that regard, such as tangling, sticking, or odor? I’ve researched and compared myself to others.
I’m not gay, but I’ve discussed this with friends.
Generally, other people don’t seem to have a problem with their hair, but I feel like I have an extra layer of “thickness.” When comparing a single hair, there isn’t much difference except for slightly longer length and coarser texture.
However, I seem to have more curliness, which makes it appear darker and thicker.
I inherited this from my dad; at my age, my pubic hair looks similar to his.
He probably won’t grow more, but since I’m still developing, I hope I won’t have more than him in the future! We’ve talked about this, but he doesn’t seem to care and doesn’t think it’s an issue.
He jokes about it, feeling that he’s too old to be embarrassed.
I feel like I’ve been cursed by genetics.
In conclusion, this is my personal reflection.
Thank you, doctor, for patiently reading this.
I hope to receive effective information, and I would greatly appreciate any additional methods that could help me.

You, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/20

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Actually, my perspective may align with your father's, because from your description, the impact of excessive hairiness on you seems to stem primarily from psychological aspects rather than any real-life issues.
Personally, I believe it shouldn't be a concern.
Perhaps you stand out more among your peers right now, but as an adult, that could become one of your defining features.
When feeling dissatisfied, we often focus only on the negatives, but in hindsight, we may realize that things aren't so bad after all.
If this is truly a source of psychological distress, I recommend clearly communicating your concerns to your father; discussing it with him would be beneficial since he has experienced similar situations.
If you do decide to pursue hair removal, it may be necessary to consult with a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, and keep in mind that it would likely be an out-of-pocket expense.

Reply Date: 2021/09/20

More Info

Managing excessive pubic hair can be a common concern for many teenagers, especially during the developmental years when physical changes are taking place. It’s important to understand that variations in hair growth, including pubic hair, are completely normal and can be influenced by genetics, hormonal changes, and individual body types. Here are some tips and insights that may help you navigate this situation:

1. Understanding Hair Growth
Pubic hair typically begins to grow during puberty due to hormonal changes in the body. The amount, thickness, and curliness of hair can vary greatly from person to person. If you notice that your hair is thicker or longer than your peers, it may simply be a genetic trait inherited from your parents. It’s worth noting that everyone develops at their own pace, and what you are experiencing is not unusual.

2. Hair Trimming and Grooming
If you are concerned about the length and thickness of your pubic hair, trimming can be a good option. Using scissors specifically designed for grooming can help you manage the length without causing irritation. It’s important to be cautious when trimming to avoid any accidental cuts.
- Trimming Tips:
- Use sharp, clean scissors to avoid pulling or tugging on the hair.

- Trim while the hair is dry to get a better idea of the length.

- Consider using a mirror to see what you are doing clearly.

If you have previously experienced itchiness after trimming, it could be due to the hair growing back. When hair is cut, it can sometimes feel sharper as it grows out, which may lead to discomfort. Regular trimming can help manage this.

3. Hair Removal Options
For more permanent solutions, you might consider hair removal methods such as waxing or laser hair removal.
- Waxing: This method removes hair from the root and can lead to finer regrowth over time. However, it can be painful, especially for sensitive areas. It’s advisable to seek professional help for waxing to ensure it’s done safely and effectively.

- Laser Hair Removal: This is a more permanent solution that reduces hair growth over time. It typically requires multiple sessions and can be costly, but many find it to be worth the investment for long-term results.

4. Hygiene and Comfort
Maintaining good hygiene is essential, especially when dealing with thicker hair. Regular washing and using a gentle soap can help prevent any odor or discomfort. If you are concerned about odor, consider wearing breathable fabrics and ensuring that you dry the area thoroughly after bathing.

5. Social Concerns and Relationships
It’s natural to worry about how your body hair might be perceived by others, especially in intimate situations. However, it’s important to remember that everyone has body hair, and preferences vary widely among individuals. Open communication with a partner about comfort levels and grooming preferences can help ease any concerns.

6. Seeking Professional Advice
If you continue to feel uncomfortable or if hair growth seems excessive, consider consulting a healthcare professional or a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice and rule out any underlying hormonal issues.

Conclusion
In summary, managing excessive pubic hair is a personal choice and can be approached in various ways depending on your comfort level. Whether you choose to trim, wax, or explore other hair removal options, the key is to find what works best for you while maintaining good hygiene. Remember, it’s completely normal to have concerns about body hair, and you are not alone in this experience. Embrace your body’s changes and seek support when needed.

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