Penile health
Pubic Hair Grooming for Men: How to Trim and Shave Safely
Pubic hair grooming for men: how to trim or shave safely, avoid cuts, razor bumps and ingrown hairs, and when a bump needs a professional check.
In short: Pubic hair grooming is a personal choice. If you groom, trimming with clippers is safer than shaving. Studies show grooming injuries such as cuts and burns are common, so use clean tools, go slowly, stretch the skin and moisturise afterwards to avoid razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
Should men groom their pubic hair?
There is no medical need to remove pubic hair. It protects the skin from friction and helps keep the area dry. Grooming is a personal choice, and many men trim for comfort, hygiene or appearance.
If you do groom, doing it safely matters. A 2017 study published in JAMA Dermatology found that grooming injuries such as cuts, burns and rashes were common in both men and women, and that men who removed all their hair were more likely to be injured. The scrotum is especially easy to cut because the skin is thin and loose.
Trimming vs shaving vs other methods
Trimming (safest)
Electric clippers or a body groomer with a guard let you shorten hair without touching the skin. This gives a neat look with the lowest risk of cuts and ingrown hairs.
Shaving
Shaving gives a smooth finish but has the highest risk of nicks, razor burn, bumps and ingrown hairs, especially for men with curly hair.
Hair removal creams
Creams dissolve hair but can burn or irritate sensitive genital skin. Never use them on the scrotum or penis unless the product clearly says it is suitable. Always patch test first.
Waxing and laser
These should be done by trained professionals.
How to trim safely
- Use clean, sharp clippers with a guard.
- Trim when the hair is dry.
- Stretch the skin gently and move slowly.
- Be extra careful around the scrotum.
- Clean your clippers after each use and do not share them.
How to shave safely
- Trim first so the razor does not clog.
- Shower first. Warm water softens hair and skin.
- Use a fresh, sharp razor. Blunt blades cause more irritation.
- Use a gentle shaving gel or cream. Avoid shaving dry.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth, at least on the first pass.
- Stretch the skin and use short, light strokes. Do not press hard.
- Rinse, pat dry and moisturise with a fragrance-free product.
Avoiding ingrown hairs and razor bumps
Ingrown hairs happen when a shaved hair curls back into the skin, causing a red, itchy bump that may contain pus. To reduce them:
- Shave less often, or trim instead.
- Avoid shaving against the grain.
- Exfoliate gently a day or two before shaving.
- Wear loose cotton underwear after shaving.
- Do not pick or squeeze bumps.
When a bump is not just an ingrown hair
Not every bump in the pubic area comes from grooming. Shaving can also spread infections such as molluscum or warts over the skin. See an appropriately registered medical professional if you notice:
- A sore, ulcer or blister, which could be an STI such as herpes or syphilis
- Wart-like growths, see HPV in men
- A painful lump that is growing, hot or spreading redness, or comes with fever
- Bumps that do not settle within two weeks
Harmless spots such as Fordyce spots are also common and are not caused by grooming.
Hygiene tips
- Wash the genital area daily with water and a mild, unscented wash.
- Dry thoroughly, especially in hot weather.
- Change underwear daily.
See also smegma: causes and how to clean.
How we can help
If grooming irritation, itching or skin worries are affecting your confidence or sex life, we can offer private advice and natural skin support, and refer you to a medical professional when needed.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Do you have pain, swelling, redness or itching in the genital area?
- Have you noticed discharge, sores, a lump or blood in your urine or semen?
- Do you have a fever or feel generally unwell?
- Has this lasted more than a few days, or keep coming back?
- Is it affecting your sex life, sleep or confidence?
A yes to questions two or three, or sudden severe pain, means you should see an appropriately registered medical professional promptly. For recurring or lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better for men to trim or shave pubic hair?
Trimming with clippers is safer than shaving and causes fewer cuts, bumps and ingrown hairs.
How do I avoid razor bumps down there?
Shave after a warm shower, use a sharp razor and gel, shave with the grain, stretch the skin and moisturise afterwards.
Can I use hair removal cream on my genitals?
Only if the product says it is suitable for the genital area, and never on the scrotum unless clearly stated. Patch test first.
Is it healthier to remove pubic hair?
No. There is no medical need to remove pubic hair. It is a personal choice.
When should I worry about a bump after shaving?
See a medical professional if it is a sore or blister, looks like a wart, keeps growing, or does not settle within two weeks.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
- PubMed: Prevalence of pubic hair grooming-related injuries, JAMA Dermatology (2017)
- NHS: Ingrown hairs
- NCCIH: Naturopathy
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
