How to Trim Pubic Hair for Men: What to Do & Not to Do

Trimming your pubic hair is a completely personal choice, and whether you choose to go au naturel or keep it closely trimmed, it's important to know how to do it properly – which is where our guide comes in handy.

It shouldn't be an awkward or embarrassing topic to discuss, as trimming your pubic hair is a common grooming habit for many of us. Not only can it make you feel more confident, but it can also improve hygiene and reduce the risk of irritation and even infection.

Whether you've never really given the topic much thought or you want to make sure you're doing it right, we've listed out the do's and don'ts of trimming down there for men so that you don’t have to worry about any mishaps.

Naturally, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is whether or not you even need to trim your pubic hair. The answer is entirely up to you and what makes you feel most comfortable.

Some men prefer to keep their pubic hair trimmed and neat, while others may prefer a more natural look. Ultimately, it's your body hair and your choice.

However, there are some potential benefits to trimming, such as:

There are also some potential downsides to trimming, so it's important to keep these in mind before you get out the trimmer:

But it's a choice that many men make and are happy with, so if you, too, are considering trimming your pubic hair, read on for a guide on how to do it right.

There aren't many steps involved in the routine, but it's important that you follow them carefully to avoid injury or discomfort.

Many men opt to use an electric trimmer, razor, or scissors depending on their preferences, but the general steps remain the same:

You should never trim your pubic hair while it's dry; otherwise, you're in for a not-so-pleasant experience.

Take a warm shower or bath beforehand in order to soften the hair and open up the pores, making it easier and less painful to trim.

Plus, you'll want your skin and hair to be clean before getting started. It's natural for sweat and bacteria to build up in the pubic region, so it's important to start with a clean slate.

If it's your first time shaving down there or you haven't trimmed in a while, you'll want to start by trimming the hair down with scissors. You won't be able to take a razor or electric trimmer right to the long hair, so you need to take the time to trim it down first.

If you're using scissors, make sure they are sharp and clean. Don't use dull or dirty scissors, as this can lead to irritation or infection.

You should cut it so it's about 1/4 inch long – this is a good length for shaving or using an electric trimmer.

To make the shave smoother and reduce the risk of irritation, use a shave cream or gel to lather up the area.

You can use a regular shaving cream, but there are also products specifically formulated for pubic hair that may be gentler and safer for the sensitive skin in that area.

After lathering up, it's time to start shaving. Always make sure you are using a clean and sharp razor or a clean and fully functioning electric trimmer.

Start shaving in the direction of hair growth, making sure to take your time and not rush. It may also help to use one hand to pull the skin taut while shaving with the other hand.

The key here is to work in sections and not overdo it in one area. This will help reduce the risk of irritation or ingrown hairs.

You should rinse off the razor or trimmer as you go to avoid the buildup of hair and product.

Once you're done, rinse off the area with lukewarm water, making sure to remove any remaining shaving cream or hair.

Afterwards, dry the area gently – ideally patting with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing or using harsh movements, as the skin in this area can be sensitive after shaving.

To prevent any irritation or dryness, apply a gentle moisturiser or aftershave balm to the area. A product with no added fragrance is best, as this can potentially irritate the skin.

Now that you know the general steps for how to trim your pubic hair, it's important to also know what not to do and the common mistakes to avoid.

A lot of men might be tempted to try and 'shortcut' the time or process, but this can lead to a lot of discomfort and even injuries. To keep it simple: follow the steps and don't cut corners.

Some common mistakes to avoid include:

The frequency of trimming will depend on your personal preference and how quickly your hair grows.

If you want to keep it completely trimmed, you'll likely need to trim every few days or at least once a week. But this will also depend on your hair growth, as some men may only need to trim every couple of weeks.

The key is to pay attention to your body and how you feel. If it's getting too long or causing discomfort, then feel free to trim as needed.

If you haven't shaved your public hair before, you won't be familiar with the feeling of regrowth – and it can be quite uncomfortable or itchy. It's the same as when you shave your face, but arguably more sensitive.

The best way to avoid itching from regrowth is to exfoliate the area. This will help remove any dead skin cells and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, which can contribute to itching.

You should also try using a gentle moisturiser or aftershave balm every day. This will help soothe the skin and reduce any dryness or irritation. Lotions with calming ingredients, like aloe vera, can also help.

And don't forget to let the area breathe. Avoid wearing tight boxers (especially at night) to allow the skin to breathe and reduce friction.

Trimming your pubic hair is a personal choice, but it's also important to do it safely and carefully. Make sure you follow the proper steps to do so and don't try to take shortcuts or rush the process.

For more tips on grooming and personal care, head over to the rest of our blog for more advice on how to look and feel your best.