The State of the Bush: Pubic Hair Trends, History & Your Grooming Choices
By Dr. Debra Durst, MD – Founder, RevitalyzeMD
So Why Are We Talking About Pubic Hair?
Let’s talk about “the bush.” Where we’ve been. Where we are. Where we’re going. This isn’t just about grooming—this is about cultural identity, body autonomy, and how women have navigated societal expectations around their bodies for centuries.
Today, more women are asking the question: Do I really need to remove it?
Spoiler: You don’t. Unless you want to.
Curious about the latest trends and the state of the bush? Watch our most popular video to get the full scoop on everything pubic hair.
A Brief History of Pubic Hair: From Ancient Queens to Brazilian Wax Queens
Ancient Civilizations
- In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, hair removal was common, tied to hygiene and status.
- Cleopatra was said to practice sugaring for smooth, hairless skin.
- Some cultures associated pubic hair with fertility and maturity, rather than shame or secrecy.
Middle Ages – Renaissance
- Lice outbreaks led some women to remove pubic hair.
- Yet in many artworks, body hair was visible—suggesting natural pubic hair was widely accepted.
The 20th Century: Razor Blades to Runways
- 1915: Gillette released the first women’s razor.
- 1940s: Skimpy swimsuits led to more trimming.
- 1960s–70s: The bush reigned during the sexual revolution and feminist wave.
- 1990s–2000s: Enter the Brazilian wax—influenced by adult films and pop stars (thanks, low-rise jeans).
Today: The Bush is Back
From #BushPride to editorial photo shoots—natural pubic hair is making a visible comeback. Not as a trend, but as a statement of autonomy.
Why Do We Even Have Pubic Hair?
Evolutionary Benefits:
- Protective barrier: Guards against bacteria, friction, and irritants.
- Reduces chafing: Especially during sex or exercise.
- Holds pheromones: Chemical signals that influence attraction.
Fun Facts:
- Pubic hair is coarser and curlier because of flattened hair follicles.
- It follows a shorter growth cycle (anagen phase of 3–4 months).
Common Myths Busted:
- Shaving doesn’t make it grow back thicker—it just feels that way.
- Removing it isn’t more hygienic—in fact, hair can protect against infections.
- Everyone removes it? Definitely not. Grooming is deeply personal and culturally specific.
What’s “Normal” Today? Trends, Social Media & Expectations
Pop Culture’s Influence
- Porn and celebrities drove the hairless trend in the 2000s.
- Now, major brands like Billie, Dove, and Thinx showcase natural body hair.
Social Media & the Rise of #BushPride
- Instagram and TikTok are filled with creators embracing natural grooming.
- The conversation has shifted to body autonomy—what you want, not what culture dictates.
Cultural & Gender Perspectives
- Some cultures prefer full removal for religious or beauty standards.
- Others see the bush as a symbol of natural beauty and power.
- Double standards exist: Women are often expected to remove it, men not so much.
Your Grooming Options—And What Doctors Want You to Know
Shaving
Pros: Inexpensive, accessible.
Cons: Nicks, razor burn, ingrown hairs.
Pro Tips: Use a clean razor, shave with the grain, moisturize after.
Waxing & Sugaring
Pros: Smooth for weeks.
Cons: Painful, pricey, ingrowns still possible.
What to Expect: It’s not that bad, but maybe pop an ibuprofen first.
Laser Hair Removal
Pros: Long-term results.
Cons: Costly, not ideal for all skin/hair types.
Is It Worth It? If you’re ready to commit to the smooth life, yes.
Going Natural
Pros: Zero upkeep, skin-friendly.
Cons: Societal pressure still exists (but who cares?).
Care Tips: Keep it clean, trim as needed, exfoliate to prevent buildup.
What Medical Experts Say:
Dermatologists and gynecologists agree:
- Shaving and waxing can cause microtears, increasing infection risk.
- Pubic hair serves a purpose, and removing it should always be an informed choice.
Where Are We Headed? The Bush Renaissance
The future is fuzzy—in the best way possible.
Brands are embracing hair in ads.
Sustainability plays a role—less shaving = less waste.
Self-care redefined: Women are choosing what feels best, not what’s trendy.
The Bottom Line: Your Bush, Your Business
Whether you wax religiously, shave sometimes, or proudly go full bush—you’re doing it right.
Final Thoughts: Let It Grow—or Let It Go
The state of your bush is nobody’s business but your own. Choose what makes you feel confident, clean, and in control. Hair or bare—it’s all beautiful.
Want more real, raw conversations about your body and health? Subscribe to the RevitalyzeMD Podcast, and follow @RevitalyzeMD for tips on sexual wellness, hormones, and regenerative aesthetic care.
Ready to smooth things out? Visit our Laser Hair Removal Treatment Page to learn about the benefits, see patient success stories, and book your consultation. Take the first step toward lasting confidence today!