can pubic hair cause bacterial infection

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Using antibacterial soap can also help to eliminate bacteria. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida on the skin. However, it can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as pubic lice or vitiligo. If your pubic area itch does not go away with over-the-counter itch relief products, it may be caused by pubic lice. Shave in the direction of the hair growth. Pubic lice (crabs) also causes itchiness which is often worse at night. Either partner may have gotten it in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on. People with psoriasis may develop plaques in their groin and upper thighs. Gut-brain connection: 3 fatty acids may be linked to tau-mediated damage, Study in humans confirms link between Parkinson's and gut bacteria imbalance, Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Stem cell treatment may prevent worsening of symptoms, How to treat and prevent ingrown pubic hair, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Causes and remedies for itchiness after shaving, How to treat and prevent razor burn near the vagina, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, shaving with warm water to soften the hair, using hypoallergenic shaving creams or gels, shaving slowly and evenly in the direction of the grain of the hair, not against it, detergents, dyes, or fabric softeners in the underwear, chemicals in soap, lotion, or other skin care products a person uses, biologics (usually for people whose conditions do not respond to other treatments). Dhar AD. . 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. To keep your pubic region soft and healthy, use a foaming product that includes Jojoba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Grapeseed Oil, and a variety of essential oils. The stories you care about, delivered daily. There are several reasons why your pubic hairs may itch. Some women will get them in the skin fold of the . If your itchy pubic area is caused by a fungal infection, you risk spreading the infection to other parts of your body by touching it. It is a tiny parasite also called crab, found in the hair and skin of the private part. No, pubic hair is not unhygienic. In 10 cases, other linked skin conditions were identified, including: Ninety-three percent of the 30 patients had had their pubic hair removed, either by shaving it off (70%), having it clipped (13%) or waxing it off (10%). Like shaving, waxing also causes microscopic tears of the skin, increasing your chances of contracting an infection or STI. Being comfortable with yourself and your body is most important. Ingrown hairs occur when trimmed or shaved hairs curl and grow backward into your skin. Trichomycosis, also referred to as trichomycosis axillaris or trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection of the underarm hairs. A version of this story was published March 2018. People can have trichomoniasis for months without showing any symptoms. Most causes of itchy pubic hair have simple solutions. When a problem is averted, methods of prevention can be useful. Ingrown pubic hairs are a common problem but may be more likely to affect those who shave or wax. Here are some steps to prevent itchy pubic hair: Although scratching an itch may bring momentary relief, it can cause more damage and irritation in the area, which may only make symptoms worse. Over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone creams can be used treat minor irritation and itching. Impetigo is a common skin infection that may be caused by either Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. The study involved 7,580 people who responded to a questionnaire about their pubic hair grooming practices, grooming injuries, sexual behaviors and STI history 56 percent were men, the rest were women. When the pubic hair begins to grow back, there are several remedies for itching. When it comes to shaving versus waxing, Chicago-based cosmetologist and waxing expert Jessica Rivera has a few thoughts. Folliculitis is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become inflamed. Stay away from products containing perfumes, dyes, and other chemicals that may be irritating your pubic area or causing an allergic reaction. Hair follicles can be damaged by: Touching or rubbing your skin frequently Wearing tight clothing Shaving The initially infected follicle may occur as a result of an ingrown hair, caused by a follicle blocked by sweat and dead skin cells. For skin cancer, a doctor will run tests and perform physical examinations to find the best treatment option for an individual. (2016). If youre experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one option to consider. a shield against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. It can affect the vaginal area, whether internally (via uvagina) or externally (via vagina, labial, or perineal). Required fields are marked *. To do so, wear loose fitting, natural materials to promote air circulation and towel off properly after taking a shower or going swimming. Some causes of itchy pubic hair will require only simple remedies. Avoid spending time in wet clothing, such as bathing suits or sweaty workout clothes. Waxing experiences are different for each woman depending on the texture and growth patterns of their own pubic hair, Rivera said. Treatment for itchy pubic hair will depend on the underlying cause. What are the risk factors of trichomycosis? However, do take note: Bacteria grows in moisture, and sometimes hair can contribute to having more of a moist area, Shepherd said. If you recently shaved your pubic area, razor burn may be to blame for itching. It generally causes dryness, itching, and sensitive skin in patches on the body, including the groin. This can lead to skin conditions like folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Your email address will not be published. Trichomycosis typically produces no symptoms and can be easily missed. Having pubic hair is normal and has its benefits. You can get razor burn if you: Pubic lice, also called crabs, are tiny insects found in the genital area. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD), merckmanuals.com/en-ca/home/skin-disorders/fungal-skin-infections/jock-itch-tinea-cruris, cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/candidiasis/index.html, merckmanuals.com/en-ca/home/skin-disorders/bacterial-skin-infections/folliculitis-and-skin-abscesses, rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/4192/extramammary-paget-disease, psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/specific-locations/genitals, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pubic-lice-crabs/symptoms-causes/syc-20350300, aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/scabies If you are prone to vaginal or yeast infections, I would consult with your doctor before getting a Brazilian wax.. Anyone uncertain about what the underlying issue is should contact a dermatologist for allergy testing. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. It can also be spread in environments like classrooms, daycares, and nursing homes. Deep meditation: Might it change the gut microbiome to boost health? You can get razor burn if you: don't use enough lubricant, like shaving cream or soap shave too fast shave too often use an old or clogged razor Pubic lice (crabs) Pubic lice, also called. It is published online in the British Medical Journals Sexually Transmitted Infections. It may be possible to reduce allergy symptoms by using hypoallergenic products such as detergents, soaps, and lotions. Still wanna groom? Pubic hair can help to prevent potentially harmful bacteria and other infectious agents from reaching your vaginal area. Abscesses are typically caused by a bacterial infection. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. There are many different types, including folliculitis, impetigo, lichen planus, and ringworm. STIs typically spread through skin-to-skin contact, so any small cuts you get from shaving ultimately leave you vulnerable to infection. A boil can develop on the labia (lips of the vagina), in the pubic region (where pubic hair grows) or in the vulvar area around your vagina. (2017). Avoid wearing underwear that is too tight and wear soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, which could damage hair follicles. The truth is that your doctor and their staff do not care if you are clean-shaven or not. A wax professional should be sure to have a client fill out a pre-wax form asking questions about medications and health conditions, Rivera said, as certain skin care prescriptions like Accutane can make your skin surface dangerously prone to burns. OTC antibacterial creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, and antifungal creams can reduce fungal overgrowth. Jock itch is a fungal infection that affects the skin folds in the genital area. Apply a generous amount of unscented shaving cream, gel, or soap. My thesis aimed to study dynamic agrivoltaic systems, in my case in arboriculture. This can cause itchiness and red, scaly skin in the area. Wearing tight clothing, poor hygiene, and not drying properly after bathing increases your risk. Thanks to the porn industry, razor blade commercials and just about every lingerie advertisement weve ever seen, were often left confused about what to do about the hair down there. 29W100 Butterfield Rd. The rash may be dark, very itchy, and have a foul smelling odor. Last medically reviewed on October 24, 2018. If it does not appear to be, Vulvar and vaginal itching are common and often due to irritation or infections. (2017). Itching, also known as "pruritus" can be uncomfortable. If you are experiencing irritation in your pubic area, it is best to see a doctor to rule out any other underlying causes. Hepatitis: Maintaining personal hygiene is the key to staying healthy. Be sure to rinse all soap off completely to avoid further irritation. Shaving may seem like the easier, more private option for women who arent comfortable baring it in a waxing setting. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. It could also lead to permanent hair loss and scarring as a result of cicatricial alopecia. Intertrigo is a rash that typically affects skin folds where your skin rubs together or traps moisture, such as under the fold of the stomach or the groin. However, a smaller number of adults may also have recurring forms of the condition. If you have ingrown hairs on your pubic hair, your hairs may be painful. Hair removal can also irritate your skin, leading to skin infections such as cellulitis and folliculitis. Other risk. Trichomycosis axillaris is a superficial bacterial infection of underarm hair. Use of antibiotics; An antibiotic ointment can be used in case the ingrown pubic hair leads to an infection. Scratching also increases the risk of other issues, such as cuts and infection. Ultimately, to go pubic hair-free or not is a personal decision. Some cases require stronger prescription medication. Waxing, tweezing, depilatories, and even laser removal and electrolysis should not be done on sensitive skin because they may be too harsh and cause long-term damage. Intertrigo is a skin condition that causes a red rash to appear in moist areas of the body, such as the skin folds, the armpits, and the area near the groin. Scratching can lead to an infection such as impetigo (a bacterial skin infection) or furunculosis (boils on the skin). The Office on Womens Health note that around 75% of all females will develop a vaginal yeast infection at some point. As a study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine notes, eczema is most common among young children. "Pubic hair helps to fend off bacteria and unwanted. This is because they may live up to 24 hours away from a human host. You can develop razor burn from shaving pubic hair on your vulva. Grooming was also associated with a two-fold rise in risk of a lice infestation for low-intensity groomers, which the authors said suggested that lice may have difficulty breeding in partners. A red, scaly patch of skin may also form in the area that causes extreme itchiness. Do we wax, shave, both or neither!? Yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of Candida, which is a naturally occurring fungus on the skin. Hair is not a barrier to infections in the groin. If a person does not understand why they have an itch, they should consult a doctor. They know that hair growth is natural and normal. But Rowen says that as long as you have good hygiene in general, your pubic hair isnt any worse off than the hair on your head. One reason could be that you are shaving or waxing the area and are not using proper techniques or products. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. The study, led by researchers at UC San Francisco, is believed to be the first large-scale investigation into the relationship between grooming practices and STIs. If youre between the ages of 10 and 22, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor. It also includes UCSF Health, which comprises three top-ranked hospitals,UCSF Medical Centerand UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospitals inSan FranciscoandOakland, and other partner and affiliated hospitals and healthcare providers throughout the Bay Area. This yeast buildup often occurs due to a pH imbalance in the vagina. These behaviors are self-destructive to the body and can cause yeast infections. Intertrigo. "Pubic hair offers a natural barrier to keep things clean, to decrease contact with viruses and bacteria, and to protect the tender skin of the area," she said. It is possible that your hair can be seen just beneath your skin. Crabs is the common term for lice found in the pubic hair of humans. Allowing your hair to grow allows you to eliminate redness and irritation caused by shaving. The parasite passes from an infected person to an uninfected person during sex. In this article, learn how to treat and prevent them. This procedure can help to differentiate between different bacterial infections and diagnose trichomycosis. Whatever choice you make about any of your body hair, make it for yourself. In severe cases, it can also cause an infection. I love to write and share science related Stuff Here on my Website. Intertrigo, or illuminati in Italian, causes a red rash to form in moist areas of the body, such as the armpits and skin folds. There's no medical or hygienic reason for removing some or all of your pubic hair. Yeast infections are very common. "Hot tub folliculitis" is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa which grows in inadequately chlorinated water . But, if it is persistent, it can be caused by infection or allergies. Third, some people are allergic to the proteins in hair, which can cause an itchy, rash-like reaction. Soak the area in warm water to soften the hair. What is trichomycosis axillaris? You can also get crabs from sharing clothes, towels, or bedding with someone who has an infestation. Armpit abscess: When infected fluid (pus) collects in the armpit. It is characterized by scaly red rashes that can form bumps and leak fluid when scratched. Contrary to common belief, getting rid of pubic hair is not more hygienic. Intertrigo may initially develop from dermatitis. Treating genital psoriasis is tricky due to the sensitive skin in the area, but some treatment options include: Rarely, some types of skin cancer can cause itchiness in the groin. PMID: 1246800 DOI: 10.1016 . Aaron DM. This creates a setup for a bacterial skin infection. Are pubic lice an STD? They cause intense itching which is worse at night. This is because they can survive for up to 24 hours without a human host. The investigators observed patients who visited a private skin clinic between January 2011 and March 2012 in Nice, France for the purpose of their study. The most important thing after trimming your hair is to ensure that it grows back properly and that razor burn and ingrown hairs do not occur. If you have recurring ingrown hairs on your pubic area, you should get rid of them as soon as possible before going for a shave. When growing pubic hair back, hydrocortisone cream helps to prevent itching by acting as a steroid. If youre experiencing irritation from your pubic hair, there are a few things you can do to ease the discomfort. Can bacteria grow in pubic hair? But this is not a disease, there are no symptoms and it is curable. Apart from the above-mentioned reasons, shaving of pubic hair can also be a cause of itching in the pubic area. Some of the other reasons are- hives, psoriasis, genital . Also called Tinea capitis, it causes small patches of itchy, scaly skin. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Like other areas of the body, pubic hair does require regular cleaning. These types of infections can occur due to poor hygiene, excessive sweating or exposure to harsh chemicals. But it may flare up in any area of the body where hair grows, like your scalp or genitals. It doesnt hinder their ability to do their job, and it doesnt harm your health. The area may become inflamed and irritated. Waxing is more long-term, and it avoids razor bumps, Rivera told SheKnows, adding that clients only need to get waxed every four weeks. When it comes to caring for pubes, it is essential to listen to your body. Shaving is harsh, so you can minimize the effects by using a few techniques. When the hair returns to its natural location, rather than growing out of the skin, it curles back inside the skin. Keeps and Hims both offer hair loss treatment. Though plaque psoriasis is the most common type, inverse psoriasis is the type most likely to affect the genital region, including the pubis. In rare cases, the infection can occur elsewhere, such as in the pubic hair or the hair between the buttocks. 2023 SheMedia, LLC. What is weird? Apply the affected area of the washcloth by soaking it in cold water, then removing any excess water. In the pubic hair region, there are many sweat glands and hair follicles, each of which can irritate, sweat, and make it difficult to get rid of bacteria. Itchy pubic hair that persists, however, may be caused by allergies, damage to the hair follicles, or an infection. 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Itching (or the feeling of burning after shaving) is caused by hair follicles that are irritated. She warned that shaving pubic hair causes "microscopic trauma to the skin." . You can experience skin pain with a bacterial infection on the skin. The skin may ooze or drain, and it may be more sensitive or prone to bleeding. The types of grooming tool varied by sex: A higher percentage of male groomers used an electric razor compared to females (42 percent vs 12 percent), and non-electric razor use was more common among women than men (61 percent vs 34 percent). Pubic hair can act as a "ladder" for bacteria to go from the anus to the vagina, said Dr. Kaufman. The presence of hair in the pubic area, sweat, and increased sebum secretion can cause swelling and can result in swollen glands, a groin injury, or strain. The person may also experience irritation or fatigue. In other words, pubic hair is supposed to be there., Given these built-in protective benefits, embracing your womanly nature might be worthwhile. She had an ingrown pubic hair that resulted in Fournier's gangrene. Is it unhygienic? Practicing proper shaving techniques may help prevent irritation. . The infection can spread and turn into crusty sores. Jock itch causes a very itchy rash with a scaly dark pink or reddish border. In fact, the best way to stay clean is to take daily showers or baths using warm water and soap, making sure to wash in between the folds or creases of your skin and pubic hair, and completely drying the area before putting on clean, breathable underwear. Do not use if you have open sores, bleeding, or signs of infection. Switching to a new detergent or another product may also help symptoms improve. (Of course, if guys want it so much, perhaps they should pick up the salon tabbut thats another story!). We avoid using tertiary references. It can affect men and women, but most often occurs in women ages 50 to 60, according to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD). Letter: Role of pubic hair in urinary tract infections Urology. Trichomycosis, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection that mainly occurs in the underarm hairs. She was hospitalized a second time for cellulitis, but she's on the mend . Jock itch is very common and occurs most often in damp, warm environments, such as the groin of someone who has been exercising. After deciding whether or not you can withstand the pain of having a 4-inch strip of hot wax torn from your vulva, the real key is to make sure you find a clean salon with highly trained professionals. Shaving incorrectly, using products that contain harsh chemicals, or shaving a, White pubic hair is part of aging. Trichomycosis can affect multiple areas at the same time. A study found that men with male pattern hair loss consumed almost double the sugar-sweetened beverages compared with those without the condition. While some people believe pubic hair is a bad idea because it can lead to hairfall, there is a legitimate medical reason for it. It is a pox virus that causes raised, pearl-like nodules or papules on the skin which are referred to as molluscum bodies, mollusca or condyloma subcutaneous. If youre experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one option to consider. Some women work out a lot or like to go swimming, and this trapped sweat and moisture may increase the chances of getting a yeast infection.. Second, use a mild soap and warm water to cleanse the area. A pubic lice can infect you when you leave your pubic area because it lives on your lower torsos hairless skin and is parasitic. Brazilian waxes and other forms of pubic hair removal may increase the risk of viral skin infections, particularly Molluscum contagiosum. Its a more pronounced fishy odor than bacterial vaginosis. They are generally considered safe, but are best avoided by . Along with itching, contact dermatitis may also cause: Allergic dermatitis occurs when your skin has an allergic reaction to a foreign substance. Impetigo starts as red blisters that later erupt and form yellow, crusty sores. Pubic lice are resilient creatures that can live on other parts of the body, including the armpits and eyelashes. There are a few reasons why your pubic area might itch at night. (2017). We were surprised at how big the effect was, said senior author Benjamin Breyer, MD, an associate professor in the UCSF Department of Urology and of Epidemiology and Biostatistics. The finding came from new research published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections which suggested that shaving the pubic area causes micro-trauma of the skin, which raises the chance of infection by a pox virus known as Molluscum contagiosum. The pubic area is a common place for folliculitis to occur because of shaving, moisture, and friction from tight clothing or sports equipment, such as a jock strap. This can cause friction and irritation, especially when the hair is wet. What is the structural formula of ethyl p Nitrobenzoate? What to know about Nutrafol hair loss treatment. Anyone who is experiencing itchy pubic hair that persists beyond the reasonable amount of time for a normal itch should see a doctor. Learn the difference between these two conditions. In women, the most commonly infected part of the body is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra). In medical terms, contact dermatitis is the result of a skin irritation or allergic reaction that causes skin inflammation. White Piedra White piedra is a fungal infection of the hair shaft. This can lead to skin conditions like folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles. Experiencing itchy. Trichomycosis axillaris is caused by corynebacteria which are able to colonize and produce concretions along the hair shafts. What you can smell is bacteria mixing with the sweat and oil. Apply a Hot, Warm Compress to the Ingrown Pubic Hair. White Piedra is an unusual asymptomatic superficial fungal infection of the hair, characterized by the presence of numerous, discrete, soft, asymptomatic nodules loosely attached to the infected hair shafts. Top 12 vaginal hygiene tips every woman should know. Trichomycosis (trichobacteriosis): Clinical and microbiological experience with 56 cases. Scabies causes a rash with red, scratch-like lines or small bumps on the genitals or other parts of your body such as the hands and wrists. Razor Burns: This is yet another common cause for Itchy Pubic Hair. Because you are exfoliated, you will be less sensitive to it. The survey, which adjusted for age and lifetime number of sexual partners, reported that groomers had nearly twice the odds of reporting an STI and extreme groomers were at even greater risk of infection. Erythrasma is most common in warm, humid climates. Pubic hair removal has become a common practice among men and women worldwide, often driven by modern societys views of attractiveness, cleanliness and feelings of femininity or masculinity. Joy Braziel was hospitalized with a flesh-eating infection in March. It is common for people to ignore dry skin that causes itching after trimming their pubic region during the dry season. The infection can clear up within a few weeks with proper management and good hygiene. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, The amazing story of hepatitis C, from discovery to cure, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/itchy-skin/groin-itch, https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/specific-locations/genitals, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4470205/, Fast food consumption may increase the risk of liver disease. Many of the common "ingrown hairs," skin rashes, infected hair follicles as well as more serious abscesses and skin infections in the genital region can be traced back to shaving. Before applying any treatment method, you should shave the hair in the affected area. Keeps vs. Hims: How do these services compare in 2023? Here's how to get rid of hives last longer. Several things may cause contact dermatitis in the groin leading to itchy pubic hair, including: Dermatitis may present other symptoms, such as hives, flaky skin, or an itchy red rash. puhhha/Shutterstock You never go commando " Go commando when you're at home! One of the main concerns with pubic lice is that people often scratch incessantly, and this scratching can lead to a secondary bacterial infection.

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