The societal norm of extensive body hair removal for women is shifting, with a growing number embracing a more natural aesthetic. This trend has been highlighted by public figures, such as actress Phoebe Bridgers, whose unshaved legs at the Venice Film Festival in September drew attention and praise for inspiring others to feel unashamed about body hair.
Experts emphasize that maintaining a natural look requires intentionality and proper skin care, rather than a neglectful appearance. Aesthetician Shantelle Clark suggests treating body hair similarly to scalp hair, focusing on an "intentional" presentation to avoid an unkempt impression.
Managing Hair Regrowth
Dr. Ross Perry, Medical Director of Cosmedics, notes that longer, well-maintained body hair can appear more deliberate than short stubble, which can sometimes look patchy due to different hair growth stages. He also points out that shaving can lead to dry, irritated, or bumpy skin. Medical aesthetician Dr. Gizem Seymenoglu adds that evenly grown-out hair can appear softer and more intentional than the coarser, uneven stubble stage.
Prioritizing Skin Health
Embracing natural body hair should not come at the expense of skin care, according to Dr. Perry. He advises focusing on maintaining healthy skin through gentle cleansing and moisturizing, particularly on areas like the legs that are prone to dryness. Aggressive scrubbing or excessive product use is unnecessary.
Preventing Ingrown Hairs
Aesthetician Sana Khan recommends using a gentle exfoliant to keep skin supple and remove dead skin cells, which is crucial for those choosing to forgo hair removal. This practice can also help prevent ingrown hairs. Khan uses a plant-based bristle body brush for gentle exfoliation but cautions against over-exfoliation, which can cause irritation, redness, or peeling. Dr. Perry echoes this, stating that gentle exfoliation a few times a week can reduce the likelihood of trapped hairs, but advises against vigorous scrubbing on freshly treated skin.
Moisturizing for Softer Skin and Hair Growth
Consistent moisturizing is key to avoiding pain and irritation, even when not removing body hair. Ms. Khan explains that well-moisturized skin, potentially with aloe vera, can combat dryness beneath body hair and contribute to a better overall appearance. Dr. Perry reiterates the importance of a gentle body wash followed by moisturizer to keep skin hydrated. Dr. Seymenoglu notes that moisturizing can help keep skin softer and allow hair an easier path to the surface, suggesting application after a shower while skin is slightly damp to lock in hydration.
Essential Products and Clothing Choices
While shaving products may become obsolete, experts stress the continued importance of skincare products used in the shower. Ms. Clarke highlights the benefit of moisturizing shower gels for preventing irritation and maintaining cleanliness. She also suggests considering vitamin supplements, specifically Vitamin D and B12, for healthy hair growth.
Edy Kurowska, founder of Edy London, advises that growing out hair doesn't mean doing nothing; a weekly brush-up and trimming of any overgrown strands can maintain a styled fullness. Dr. Perry adds that loose-fitting clothing can help minimize discomfort and irritation, especially in areas prone to friction and sweating after hair removal. He concludes that healthy-looking skin is paramount, whether one chooses to display body hair or not, and that the trend reflects a welcome shift away from pressure to remove hair due to social expectations.