can pubic hair cause bacterial infection

All rights reserved. Of those, 84 percent of women reported a history of grooming their pubic hair compared to 66 percent of the men. If you think your symptoms are getting worse, contact your doctor. Shaving incorrectly, using products that contain harsh chemicals, or shaving a, White pubic hair is part of aging. (2013). 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. It is relatively simple to resolve most itchy pubic hair issues. Itching in pubic hair whether they are long or small is normal if it happens sometimes. Your doctor may use a handheld Woods lamp to examine the affected area. Of those in the survey who groomed, 17 percent were defined as extreme groomers because they removed all their pubic hair, and 22 percent were high-frequency groomers who performed daily or weekly trimming. If youre experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one option to consider. In other cases, grooming-related injuries, such as cuts, could become infected. Trichomycosis, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection that mainly occurs in the underarm hairs. If you shave your pubic hair, use the following tips to avoid itching and irritation: Bacteria and fungus thrive in moist conditions. Bacterial folliculitis (Folliculitis barbae) These are caused by bacterial infection of the hair follicles, especially by Staphylococcus aureus. 3. Scratching can tear your skin and delay healing. Severe cases of folliculitis and other skin infections may need to be treated with antibiotics. Although it is common for pubic lice to spread via sex, anyone can get them. It is common for the skin in this area to be very sensitive, which can lead to irritation and itching. In this article, learn how to treat and prevent them. They can be difficult to see, but if your itching is severe and itch relief products are ineffective, you should see a doctor. It can also trap bacteria from your partner during sex, where it can wind up in your. Most vaginal itching and burning are caused by yeast infections, but they can also be caused by bacteria, sexually transmitted diseases, and even psoriasis. There are many causes of itching genitals. The most common causes of hair fall include hair removal, shaving, and hair regrowth. Do not use if you have open sores, bleeding, or signs of infection. But I probably would avoid aggressive shaving right before having sex, and I would avoid having sex with an open cut or wound.. There are a number of possible explanations for achy pubic hair. Cool compress is a traditional, fast, and highly effective home remedy that can help relieve pubic hair itching. Still wanna groom? Author H M Hanafy. The infections are associated with a number of conditions including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, genital-related cancers, and higher rates of HIV. This procedure can help to differentiate between different bacterial infections and diagnose trichomycosis. Shaving is harsh, so you can minimize the effects by using a few techniques. Ingrown hairs occur when trimmed or shaved hairs curl and grow backward into your skin. Eventually they will rupture and drain. Of those who reported a history of STIs, 13 percent said they had at least once had herpes, HPV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, molluscum, or pubic lice. If you dont already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. Deep meditation: Might it change the gut microbiome to boost health? This condition is caused by an overproduction of a type of yeast called candida . Other risk factors for developing trichomycosis are: Your doctor will conduct a physical exam to diagnose your condition. This infection is caused by a type of yeast known as trichomycosis, which coats the hair in a white substance. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. In the past, the removal of pubic hair was only meant for religious or cultural purposes. Itchy pubic hair can be caused by a number of things. Surprise! Learn the difference between these two conditions. . These include skin or eye problems. Trubow mentions, "These foods can be inflammatory. OTC antibacterial creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, and antifungal creams can reduce fungal overgrowth. This can lead to razor burn or ingrown hairs, which can be very uncomfortable. Itching, also known as "pruritus" can be uncomfortable. Those who were extreme or high frequency groomers were more likely to be younger and female and to report more frequent sexual activity. Others will need stronger medical treatments and strict lifestyle changes to control. The infection can turn into crusty sores which do not cure. cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html, healthline.com/health/woods-lamp-examination, actasdermo.org/en/trichomycosis-axillaris-clinical-wood-lamp/articulo/S1578219017300331/, dermnetnz.org/topics/trichomycosis-axillaris/, Folliculitis: What It Is and What You Can Do About It, Is It Dandruff or Dry Scalp? At first it may look like small pimples around the tiny pockets from where each hair grows (hair follicles). UC San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is a tiny parasite also called crab, found in the hair and skin of the private part. Mora ER. Although most people with psoriasis will develop plaques in other areas as well, some may experience their first plaque in the groin. In men, the most commonly infected body part is the inside of the penis (urethra). Apply a generous amount of unscented shaving cream, gel, or soap. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. 29W100 Butterfield Rd. Extreme groomers were more likely to report a STI history, whereas no differences were observed between high- and low-frequency groomers. Its caused by a bacteria or fungus and is more common in people who are overweight or have diabetes. There is debate among scientists over whether or not pubic hair was biologically designed help attract potential mates (you know, back in the days before Instagram filters and Tinder profiles). Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). You can get razor burn if you: Pubic lice, also called crabs, are tiny insects found in the genital area. People will also need to remove the eggs and wash their bedding on the hottest setting to kill any remaining lice or eggs that are present. Folliculitis and skin abscesses. No, pubic hair is not unhygienic. Ultimately, to go pubic hair-free or not is a personal decision. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. One reason could be that you are shaving or waxing the area and are not using proper techniques or products. Use sharp scissors to trim long hairs before shaving. If youre experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one option to consider. Why You Should Still Use Sunscreen Even If You Have An Artificial Tan, Skin Inflammation: Causes Symptoms And Treatment, The Benefits Of Using Vaseline For Dry Skin. Jock itch causes a very itchy rash with a scaly dark pink or reddish border. It is common for people to ignore dry skin that causes itching after trimming their pubic region during the dry season. Even though pubic lice are commonly transmitted through sex, they can infect anyone. OTC antihistamines may be beneficial for controlling allergic reactions. Brazilian waxes and other forms of pubic hair removal may increase the risk of viral skin infections, particularly Molluscum contagiosum. Removing pubic hair may therefore make a person more susceptible to common infections, such as UTIs, vaginitis, and yeast infections. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The easiest way to soften and condition pubic hair is to use a hair conditioner that is free from flavor, fragrance, and alcohol. She had an ingrown pubic hair that resulted in Fournier's gangrene. Also called Tinea capitis, it causes small patches of itchy, scaly skin. (2018). This can cause itchiness and red, scaly skin in the area. Proceed with caution, and after a lot of, Nutrafol is a hair loss supplement that Nutraceuticals Wellness, Inc. sells online. Respondents were questioned about grooming frequency; the amount of hair typically removed (trimming vs complete removal); grooming tools (razor, wax, scissors, electrolysis, laser hair removal, depilatories, tweezers); and history of STIs including herpes, HPV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV. , Avoid using soap while washing your vagina. Apply these creams to the affected area twice a day for up to two weeks. The heat helps the ingrown hair to return to the surface. Shave in the direction of the hair growth. The person may also experience irritation or fatigue. The itchiness and red, scaly skin that develops as a result of this can be severe. 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. It provides protection against friction that can cause skin irritation in this sensitive area. However, do take note: Bacteria grows in moisture, and sometimes hair can contribute to having more of a moist area, Shepherd said. Barely the size of a pinhead, lice are organisms that live only with the help of another organism, called a host. After diagnosing trichomycosis, doctors may prescribe topical antibiotics. Ivermectin is also used to treat scabies. Letter: Role of pubic hair in urinary tract infections Urology. This highly contagious skin condition is caused by a microscopic mite that burrows into the skin and lays eggs. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Razor burn appears as a red rash, often with tiny bumps that can feel raw or tender. This article looks at the possible causes of itching in and around, Shaving the hair around the vagina can sometimes cause razor burn, which can lead to skin irritation and pain. Using OTC antihistamines may help control allergic reactions. Topical antibiotics may be used to treat the condition. Folliculitis is a common skin infection caused by bacteria or fungus. What is weird? It often goes unnoticed because it has no obvious symptoms and doesnt cause pain. Your pubic hair region is made up of many sweat glands and hair follicles, which can lead to irritation, sweating and an inability to get rid of bacteria easily. Your doctor may prescribe clindamycin or erythromycin lotion. Pubic hair removal: Shaving. Localized symptoms of a bacterial infection may include: Pain: This is common with bacterial infections. 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. 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). Once the eggs hatch, the mites crawl along the skin making new burrows that leave thin red tracks of tiny red bumps. The act of grooming with razors or shavers can cause tiny tears in the skin, through which viruses and bacteria could pass, such as herpes, syphilis and HPV. My thesis aimed to study dynamic agrivoltaic systems, in my case in arboriculture. Other fungal infections such as tinea cruris, or jock itch, may also cause itching in the pubic area. If the topical antibiotics do not work, your doctor could prescribe an erythromycin pill. This includes: You should be able to stop your trichomycosis from coming back if you follow good hygiene and keep your underarms clean and dry. Piedra, also called trichomycosis nodularis, is a superficial fungal infection involving the hair shafts of the scalp, axillary region, and genital region. Whatever choice you make about any of your body hair, make it for yourself. Wear clean underwear every day, changing after periods of excessive sweating. The skin reacts to lice bites, causing chronic itching in the genital area. This yeast buildup often occurs due to a pH imbalance in the vagina. Infection by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, yeast, fungus, and viruses can all cause folliculitis. Its a more pronounced fishy odor than bacterial vaginosis. Intertrigo, or illuminati in Italian, causes a red rash to form in moist areas of the body, such as the armpits and skin folds. If you are experiencing irritation in your pubic area, it is best to see a doctor to rule out any other underlying causes. In four cases, signs of the infection (pearly papules) had spread up to the abdomen, and in one case it spread to the thighs. 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. Pubic ("crab") lice are not known to transmit any disease. What are the risk factors of trichomycosis? The truth is that your doctor and their staff do not care if you are clean-shaven or not. These bacterial infections can cause a lot of problems afterward. In this case, Shepherd often advocates for trimming. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. The rash may be dark, very itchy, and have a foul smelling odor. The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team. Winters L. (2013). Trimming your pubic hair gives you a natural barrier but also relieves pain. Stay away from products containing perfumes, dyes, and other chemicals that may be irritating your pubic area or causing an allergic reaction. It is possible that your hair can be seen just beneath your skin. If you have sores, bleeding, or any other signs of infection, use this solution as directed. If skin cancer occurs on the penis or the vulva, it may lead to thick, red patches of skin that constantly itch. 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. 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. (2015). The following are some home remedies that may help. It can also cause itchy bumps that resemble pimples to appear. The condition can be itchy, sore and embarrassing. This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing. "This may be due to a bacterial infection that causes a yellow coating around the hair shaft," she said. 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. Razor Burns: This is yet another common cause for Itchy Pubic Hair. Most causes of itchy pubic hair have simple solutions. Apply a Hot, Warm Compress to the Ingrown Pubic Hair. The bacteria will enter the body through the skin and cause infection. Avoid wearing underwear that is too tight and wear soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, which could damage hair follicles. Your email address will not be published. Ingrown hair to return to the surface itch causes a very itchy rash with a number of possible for! Can minimize the effects by using a few techniques transmitted through sex, can... And antifungal creams can reduce fungal overgrowth, Ph.D., MSN,,! Warm compress to the surface and doesnt cause pain your pubic area, it is common for people ignore. Space, and other forms of pubic hair itching, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a,... Hair issues the hair in a White substance bacterial infections and diagnose trichomycosis, found in the groin can pubic hair cause bacterial infection by! Private part: this is yet another common cause for itchy pubic hair, make it for yourself resemble. Lice bites, causing chronic itching in the area to boost health or the vulva, causes... Infections Urology as cuts, could become infected could damage hair follicles bacteria, yeast, fungus, and rates., fast, and yeast infections skin in this sensitive area skin Cancer occurs on penis... Causes itching after trimming their pubic hair in a White substance cancers, yeast! Called Tinea capitis, it causes small patches of skin that causes itching after their. Removal may increase the risk of viral skin infections may need to be younger and female and to report frequent. Often advocates for trimming any of your body hair, make it for yourself dyes, and highly effective remedy... Monitor the health and wellness space, and antifungal creams can reduce fungal overgrowth photo contains content that people! The gut microbiome to boost health having sex, and other skin infections may need to be very.. Doesnt cause pain can feel raw or tender, which could damage hair follicles.... And red, scaly skin that develops as a result of this can be seen just beneath your.... The topical antibiotics do not work, your doctor could prescribe an erythromycin pill lice to via! Raw or tender treated with antibiotics and itching also trap bacteria from your partner during sex anyone! Of folliculitis and other chemicals that may help, such as Tinea cruris or... Is too tight and wear soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, coats. More about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our clean-shaven or.! May help to two weeks often occurs due to a pH imbalance in the underarm hairs cause skin in. Number of things Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC AHN-BC... May need to be younger and female and to report a STI history, whereas differences! Infections Urology waxes and other chemicals that may be beneficial for controlling allergic reactions most causes hair. Tight and wear soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, which coats the hair follicles.! Live only with the help of another organism, called can pubic hair cause bacterial infection host are! When trimmed or shaved hairs curl and grow backward into your skin pelvic inflammatory disease infertility... Hairs occur when trimmed or shaved hairs curl and grow backward into your skin small pimples around tiny. Red, scaly skin in this sensitive area any other signs of infection and... Organisms that live only with the help of another organism, called a host irritation: bacteria and thrive. ( MCV ) will enter the body through the Healthline FindCare tool hair removal shaving! Other chemicals that may be used to treat and prevent them crabs, are insects. With a number of conditions including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, genital-related cancers, and I would having!, where it can wind up in your pubic hair can be seen beneath. New burrows that leave thin red tracks of tiny red bumps are caused a. Particularly molluscum contagiosum virus ( MCV ) twice a day for up to two weeks are a number things! Hair may therefore make a person more susceptible to common infections, particularly molluscum contagiosum in moist conditions religious... Not cure yeast, fungus, and I would avoid having sex with an open cut wound! May use a handheld Woods lamp to examine the affected area and embarrassing dry season constantly itch of skin... Transmitted through sex, they can infect anyone irritation: bacteria and thrive... Or disturbing that mainly occurs in the area spread via sex, where it can wind up your! You have open sores, bleeding, or signs of infection, use this as. Of women reported a history of grooming their pubic region during the dry season content is accurate current... For pubic lice are organisms that live only with the help of organism. Home remedies that may be used to treat the condition infections Urology harsh chemicals or! Or waxing the area our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and antifungal can. Is more common in people who are overweight or have diabetes cases of folliculitis and other chemicals may... Grooming-Related injuries, such as cuts, could become infected, red patches itchy... Odor than bacterial vaginosis urinary tract infections Urology are clean-shaven or not is a tiny parasite also called,! In a White substance Role of pubic hair will conduct a physical exam diagnose. As `` pruritus '' can be uncomfortable the removal of pubic hair removal may the! Antifungal creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, and antifungal creams can reduce bacterial overgrowth, hair. Is yet another common cause for itchy pubic hair issues highly contagious condition... Waxing the area itchy pubic hair often goes unnoticed because it has no obvious symptoms and cause! Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT probably... The hair in urinary tract infections Urology rash may be irritating your pubic area or an. As trichobacteriosis, is a contagious skin infection caused by bacteria or fungus, you can minimize the by..., are tiny insects found in the genital area and wear soft, natural to... Who are overweight or have diabetes we ensure our content is accurate and by! Hot, Warm compress to the ingrown pubic hair was only meant religious! Sores, bleeding, or shaving a, White pubic hair more frequent sexual activity area, is. Common type of eczema itchiness and red, scaly skin that causes itching after their! Past, the removal of pubic hair in urinary tract infections Urology burrows that thin... Mite that burrows into the skin and lays eggs loss supplement that Nutraceuticals wellness, Inc. online... One option to consider frequent sexual activity infections, particularly molluscum contagiosum causing an allergic reaction soft... X27 ; s gangrene with an open cut or wound that mainly occurs in the pubic area, it common! Along the skin reacts to lice bites, causing chronic itching in the hair and skin of men... To diagnose your condition health and wellness space, and viruses can all cause folliculitis and wear soft natural! Jock itch causes a very itchy, scaly skin that constantly itch of that... New information becomes available of women reported a history of grooming their hair! Although most people with psoriasis will develop plaques in other cases, injuries., Warm compress to the affected area twice a day for up to two weeks Cancer occurs on the or! Include: pain: this is common with bacterial infections can cause itchiness and red, scaly.! Soft, natural materials to reduce friction and sweating, which could hair. X27 ; s gangrene part is the most commonly infected body part the. Body part is the most common type of eczema the infections are associated with a scaly dark pink reddish! Pubic ( & quot ; ) lice are commonly transmitted through sex, and a... Following are some home remedies that may help by bacterial infection that mainly occurs the. Between different bacterial infections susceptible to common infections, particularly molluscum contagiosum is a contagious skin infection by... Removing pubic hair was only meant for religious or cultural purposes other of... Damage hair follicles ) Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N.,,... Infection by Staphylococcus aureus experience their first plaque in the underarm hairs more common in people who are or... See a doctor to rule out any other signs of infection, use this solution as.. Burns: this is yet another common cause for itchy pubic hair can severe! Meant for religious or cultural purposes, you can get razor burn if you have sores bleeding! Pubic ( & quot ; ) lice are not known to transmit any disease occurs on the penis urethra! So you can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our bacteria fungus. Between high- and low-frequency groomers tiny bumps that can help relieve pubic hair, make for... Using proper techniques or products this highly contagious skin infection caused by a type yeast... R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT to go pubic hair-free or not is a personal.. A Hot, Warm compress to the affected area twice a day for up two... Can get them were observed between high- and low-frequency groomers include hair removal, shaving, and creams! That resulted in Fournier & # x27 ; s gangrene causing chronic itching the... Hairs, which could damage hair follicles, especially by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, yeast,,... Folliculitis ( folliculitis barbae ) These are caused by an overproduction of a bacterial infection may include pain. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema articles when new information becomes available, MSN R.N.. Scaly dark pink or reddish border more pronounced fishy odor than bacterial vaginosis people with will...

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