Body hair? Don’t care! 22% of women are shaving and plucking less frequently

September 13, 2023

Is armpit hair the new fashion trend for women? A poll has ascertained that women are more likely to embrace their body hair today—with one in five saying they’re actually content to let their leg, armpit, and bikini lines grow, reports Study Finds.

The survey of 2,000 adults suggests body hair trends have been changing in recent years, with 22% of women now “more likely” to leave body and facial hair unshaven when it suits them. For some, this approach is liberating, as 14% say their body and facial hair allows them to express themselves.

However, the findings suggest that many are keeping their body hair due to wider concerns around removal methods and painful past experiences. Half are worried they’ll get skin irritation or have an allergic reaction from hair removal products; while 33% fear they’ll get spots, and 31% worry that the process will hurt.

The research was commissioned by Philips, makers of the Facial Hair Removal 5000 Series, to look at changing attitudes towards body hair.

“Women today are much more concerned with finding the best hair removal tool for them, especially when it comes to their face. Rightly so, as incorrect facial hair removal can lead to hyperpigmentation, irritation and, in the worst-case scenario, even scarring,” says Dr. Kemi Fabusiwa, who is working with the brand and has an interest in skincare, in a statement.

Of the 87 percent of women who say having facial hair bothers them, 19 percent choose to remove their “peach fuzz” because it prevents them from having a smooth base for their skincare and makeup. However, 62% of women have tried to physically remove hair from their face—with 73% using tweezers to do so.

The study, conducted by OnePoll, also found 12% have risked injury using scissors, while 12% have attempted to pull it using their nails. Another 2% have even resorted to using tape to rip off their facial fuzz.

“We know that every individual woman’s grooming routine is as unique as they are,” says Chloé Fallon, a spokesperson for Philips. “And all women should feel able to express themselves via their body hair in whatever way makes them feel most confident. If or when they choose to remove their facial hair, we want them to feel confident in their method of removal—and not reach for the dangerous, painful, or unsuccessful techniques we know people have resorted to in the past.”

Research contact: @StudyFinds