Complete shaving of pubic hair. Well, let’s be honest, it has long been fashionable, even a social obligation, the norm to follow—but imposed by whom, exactly?
In 2026, mindsets are changing and more and more people are choosing to keep some of their intimate hair. Whether by choice, laziness, or a desire for better well-being.
But ultimately, maybe it’s no coincidence: science and experience show us that complete shaving is probably not the best option for intimate areas. So here are 5 good reasons to keep at least a few millimeters of pubic hair.
1. The Protective Role of Pubic Hair
Pubic hair is not there by chance. Nature has entrusted it with several essential roles for our intimate health.
First and foremost, they form a physical barrier against bacteria and other potentially harmful microorganisms. Like a protective forest, pubic hair limits direct access of pathogens to the delicate skin of our intimate areas.
They also play a crucial role in thermal regulation. By maintaining a stable microclimate, they help balance the bacteria in the area, thus preventing certain infections.
Medical research confirms that people who maintain moderate pubic hair have fewer urinary and genital infections than those who shave completely. This is not a minor detail when it comes to intimate health.
2. The Nightmare of Ingrown Hairs
Who hasn’t suffered from an ingrown hair in the pubic area? These little nuisances appear when a hair, instead of growing outward normally, curls and grows under the skin.
Close shaving is the main cause of this phenomenon. By cutting the hair below the skin’s surface, it creates ideal conditions for the hair to curl back and grow inward during regrowth. Pubic hair, naturally thicker and often curly, is particularly prone to ingrown hairs.
The statistics are clear: over 60% of people who completely shave their pubic hair report ingrown hair problems. These issues can range from a simple red bump to a cyst requiring medical intervention.
The risk is significantly higher for people with curly or kinky hair, those who shave or wax regularly, and in certain areas (beard for men, bikini/legs/armpits for women).
By keeping a minimal hair length (even just 2-3mm), you drastically reduce this risk while maintaining a neat and groomed appearance.
3. Daily Comfort
Let’s admit it: regrowth after a full shave is anything but comfortable. The itching, tingling, the feeling of rubbing against underwear... The discomfort can last several days and requires almost daily maintenance if you want to keep a full shave.
By keeping a few millimeters of hair, you avoid that unpleasant phase. Short hair is flexible enough not to itch while remaining short enough not to cause excessive sensation.
Comfort also extends to sports activities. Active people often report a significant reduction in irritation and chafing during running, cycling, or other sports when they choose short hair rather than a full shave.
4. The Natural and Harmonious Look
In 2026, self-acceptance and naturalness are making a strong comeback. Beauty standards are evolving toward more authenticity.
Well-maintained but present hair offers a more natural and harmonious look. It’s a middle ground between the wild look of unkempt hair and the sometimes artificial or prepubescent appearance of a full shave.
Recent surveys on intimate preferences also show a clear trend: the majority of people now prefer a partner with well-maintained hair rather than a full shave. Naturalness has reclaimed its place, even in intimacy.
Keeping a well-maintained hair length is just as valid and stylish today as shaving everything clean or not shaving at all.
5. The Balance Between Hygiene and Health
Contrary to some common beliefs, full shaving is not necessarily more hygienic. In fact, sometimes it’s even the opposite.
Micro-cuts caused by shaving create entry points for bacteria. Moreover, the complete absence of hair increases skin-to-skin contact and therefore friction, sweating, and maceration.
Short, well-maintained hair allows for effective cleaning while preserving the natural protective functions of hair. It’s the best of both worlds: optimal cleanliness and natural protection.
The Power to Choose Your Style: Psychological Liberation
Let's be honest, intimate care is also a matter of relationship with oneself. In 2026, the real trend is making your own choices, independent of social pressures or passing fads.
The most recent surveys show that 28% of women do not practice any form of pubic hair removal, a figure that has nearly doubled since 2013. This change marks an important turning point: we are taking back control of our bodies and our intimate choices.
Psychologists specializing in body image confirm that choosing your intimate style based on your own preferences rather than external pressures significantly boosts self-esteem and personal confidence.
As Cynthia, co-founder of billy, often tells us:
"Feeling good in your intimacy means feeling good in your skin every day. Everyone has the right to decide what suits them best."
Find Your Style: Multiple Options for Tailored Grooming
The advantage of keeping a few millimeters of hair is that you can really personalize your style. Here are the trends emerging in 2026:
The "Controlled Natural" Style (6-9mm)
Preferred by 34% of respondents, this style maintains the natural texture while keeping a controlled length. Ideal for those who want a natural but neat look.
The "Balanced" Style (3-6mm)
The most popular in 2026 with 42% of followers. This length offers a balance between protection and minimalist aesthetics. It’s the perfect choice for beginners.
The "Minimalist" Style (1-3mm)
Chosen by 24% of people, this style keeps just enough length to avoid the downsides of a clean shave while offering an almost smooth look.
With billy and its 5 cutting lengths (0mm, 3mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm), you can easily switch styles depending on your mood. It’s this freedom of choice that makes all the difference.
What Our Users Think: Testimonials
Marie, 28 years old
"After years of full shaving and battling ingrown hairs, I tried trimming to 3mm with my billy. Not only is it so much more comfortable, but my partner finds it more natural and sensual. I won’t go back."
Thomas, 34 years old
"Honestly, for me, cutting my testicles while shaving had almost become a routine... Until I tried my billy. No more cuts, no more irritation, and as a bonus, it takes me 2 minutes in the shower once a week. Why did I wait so long?"
Alex, 26 years old
"I always thought everyone preferred full shaving, so I followed it religiously. But when I dared to give up that habit and keep 3mm with my billy, I was surprised to receive nothing but compliments. It's liberating not having to shave daily, it takes less time, and it's more comfortable."
A Brief History of Intimate Hair: Where Does This Obsession with "Completely Shaved" Come From?
Let's be honest, the idea that the pubic area must be completely shaved didn't come out of nowhere. This norm, which seems "natural" to us, actually has a fascinating history that says a lot about our societies.
Did you know that in ancient Egypt, full hair removal was already practiced? Wealthy men and women removed all their hair to display their social status and for hygiene reasons in the hot climate. In Greece and Rome, it was the same: being smooth was a sign of wealth and distinction.
Then surprise! In the Middle Ages, the trend completely reversed. Hair was kept and even valued. Christian influence encouraged keeping the body "natural," and hair removal even became suspicious, sometimes associated with prostitution. Hair served as protection against diseases and as a "natural veil" for intimate parts.
The big comeback of hair removal happened in the 20th century, driven by several waves:
- Fashion evolution (shorter skirts, swimsuits, bikinis) exposed the body more.
- The launch of the first women's razor by Gillette in 1915 was accompanied by ads hammering that hair is "unsightly."
- The idea that a hairless body is more "youthful," more "pure," and more "feminine" took hold in people's minds.
But the final blow came in the 90s and 2000s. Mainstream pornography, with its completely hairless actresses, set a new standard that quickly spilled over into popular culture. Without really questioning this trend, many adopted it as if it had always existed.
In the 90s and 2000s, mainstream pornography featured completely hairless actresses, establishing a new "popular norm."
The most interesting part? This standard is not just aesthetic. It also reflects social structures where hair is still seen as a masculine attribute, and where the female body must meet certain standards to be "acceptable."
In 2026, we are finally beginning to understand that these standards are not set in stone. They change with eras, cultures, and social movements. And that's a good thing: everyone should be able to choose their style without external pressure.
The Ideal Solution: Controlled Grooming with billy
In 2026, the trend is no longer about extremes but balance. Controlled grooming with a suitable trimmer like billy allows you to achieve the ideal length that preserves all the benefits of pubic hair while offering a clean and well-groomed look.
By 2026, people should be able to choose their pubic hair style without shame.
Billy's technology now allows you to precisely maintain the length of your choice, usually between 3 and 6mm, without the drawbacks of traditional shaving:
- More daily comfort
- Lower health risks
- A natural yet neat appearance
- Easy and quick maintenance (under 2 minutes)
- Easy to avoid cuts thanks to the safe ceramic blade
- 0 ingrown hairs
- A pleasant experience with the soft-touch finish and ergonomic design
Conclusion: Your Hair, Your Style
In 2026, it’s time to break free from aesthetic diktats that push us toward practices sometimes harmful to our health and comfort. Pubic hair has its purpose, and smart maintenance combines aesthetics, well-being, and health.
The trend now is body acceptance and making informed choices rather than conforming to artificial standards. With billy, you finally have the freedom to choose exactly the style that suits you, without compromising on health or comfort.
And you, what will your approach to intimate care be this year? Feel free to share your experience or questions in the comments – at billy, we’re open to all discussions, especially the most intimate ones.
FAQ - Everything you wanted to know about pubic hair maintenance
Is there an "ideal" length for pubic hair?
No, there’s no universally ideal length! It’s a matter of personal preference and comfort. That said, between 3 and 6 mm seems to be a good compromise for most people: short enough not to be bothersome but long enough to avoid irritation and ingrown hairs. With billy, you can easily test different lengths (0, 3, 6, 9, or 12mm) to find what suits you best.
Is keeping pubic hair less hygienic?
Let’s be honest, it’s a persistent myth! Well-maintained hair is not less hygienic than a fully shaved area. On the contrary, it can even offer some protection against bacteria. The important thing is to maintain good daily hygiene, no matter your style choice. Short, well-kept hair is just as easy to clean as shaved skin.
I still get ingrown hairs even without shaving completely. What can I do?
If you have particularly sensitive skin, even a short trim can sometimes cause ingrown hairs. Here are some tips that might help:
- Gently exfoliate the area 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells
- Moisturize your skin well after showering
- Wear cotton underwear that lets your skin breathe
- Try a slightly longer length with your billy (for example, go from 0mm to 3mm)
My partner prefers me completely shaved. What should I do?
Communication is key! Talk openly with your partner about why you prefer to keep a few millimeters of hair (comfort, health, etc.). You could suggest a compromise, like trying a very short length (3mm) with billy, which gives an almost smooth look while avoiding the downsides of a full shave. Remember, it’s your body, and your comfort matters too.
How can I easily maintain my pubic hair daily?
It's super easy with billy! A quick pass 2 to 4 times a month (it takes less than 2 minutes) is usually enough to maintain the desired length. The most convenient way is to do it in the shower – billy is 100% waterproof. No need for creams, foams, or special lotions, just a quick trim and you’re done.
I have very sensitive skin. Can keeping short hair help?
Absolutely! If you have sensitive skin, keeping a length of 3 to 6mm can make a huge difference. Irritations after shaving, small bumps, and itching are often caused by shaving too close to the skin. billy’s ceramic blade is specially designed to be gentle on sensitive skin, and by keeping a bit of length, you avoid direct contact with the skin.
Is the "fully shaved" trend disappearing in 2026?
We are indeed seeing a return to more natural and diverse intimate styles. Statistics show that the percentage of people opting for moderate maintenance rather than a full shave increases every year. In 2026, the real trend is having the choice and doing what we like, not what magazines or movies tell us. Many discover they prefer a maintained style that’s not completely shaved, both for comfort and aesthetics.
How long does it take for pubic hair to regrow after a full shave with a blade razor?
Regrowth varies from person to person, but generally, you can expect about:
- 1-2 days to feel the first regrowth (the "tingling" stage)
- 5-7 days to reach about 1-2mm
- 2-3 weeks to reach 3-5mm
- 4-6 weeks for full regrowth
If you want to switch from a full shave to maintenance with billy, it's best to wait at least a week of regrowth before the first use.
Can the billy trimmer cause cuts like a razor?
No, that's actually one of billy's great advantages! Its ceramic blade is specifically designed to prevent cuts, even on the most sensitive and delicate areas like the testicles or labia. The anti-cut technology allows the blade to effectively trim hair without ever nicking the skin. However, this is not foolproof, especially on the testicles where the skin is sometimes thinner than billy's protection, so it's still necessary to use good technique to ensure zero cuts.
How do I maintain my billy so it lasts a long time?
It's super simple! After each use:
- Rinse the head under water (billy is 100% waterproof)
- Let it air dry
- Change the blade every 3 to 6 months depending on how often you use it
With these simple little steps, your billy will stay efficient and hygienic for a long time.
Share on your networks: