

There are two reasons why every human should be thankful for pubic hair. For one thing (and this is especially the case for women), although they say that a little extra weight in the genitalia region provides more “cushion for the pushin,’” that actually applies to pubic hair too; the reason why is it helps to make the friction that comes with intercourse a more comfortable experience. Another reason to appreciate pubic hair? It can decrease the chances of infections being transmitted, including STIs/STDs.
To me, both of these provide enough just cause to want to share additional information on pubic hair, just as much as I possibly can. And while in the past, I’ve tackled things like, “Here Are The Pros And Cons About Different Types Of Pubic Hair Maintenance,” “Pubic Hair Turning White? It Could Mean More Than Just Aging.,” and “Yep. Pubic Hair Has Trends (And Specific Needs) Too.,” today I’m going to get into some things that you may have randomly questioned about your vulva’s hair that you didn’t know who (or how) to ask about.
Are you ready to learn more about pubic hair than you’ve possibly ever known before? Here ya go.
1. Pubic Hair Is Darker than the Hair on Your Head
It’s pretty common for pubic hair to be darker than the hair that is on your head. One reason is because its cuticle layers are thicker. Another is because the melanin that is in the hair follicles that are on your head is less than the melanin that is in the hair follicles that are around your genitalia. Then, once your hair follicles start to die off and less melanin is produced, your pubic hair starts to turn white or gray. It’s pretty common for you to see your first gray pubic hair in your 30s or 40s, by the way.
2. Pubic Hair Can Only Grow but So Long
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you never trimmed your pubic hair, for most people, not much. And by that, I mean that pubes tend to stop growing somewhere between ½”-1 ½ “; that’s because its growth cycle phase is much shorter than the one on your head.
3. Pubic Hair Makes Sex Feel More Comfortable
Here’s an interesting way to look at pubic hair — some health experts refer to it being a form a dry lubricant because it’s so much easier for hairs to rub against each other than skin. And when you’re having sex with someone, you definitely want the movements to be as effortless and comfortable as possible. So yes, if you’ve heard somewhere that pubic hair reduces friction during intercourse, that’s not a myth; that is absolutely correct.
4. Pubic Hair and Pheromones Work Hand in Hand
Since pubic hair is thicker, that explains why it tends to be a different texture from the hair that is on your head as well. And the curliness of it? That can actually work in your favor…at least as far as bedroom activities are concerned. That’s because some health experts believe that the curls of pubic hair make it easier for them to trap the kind of pheromones that make you more (sexually) appealing to your partner.
And since many men tend to really enjoy the natural scent of a healthy woman’s vagina while a man’s pheromones help to put women in a better mood while making her hornier in the process — well, those both sound like good reasons to keep at least a little curly hair going on down there.
5. A Good Amount of People Remove Hair Before Sex (Especially Oral Sex)
Several years back, while I was in a session with a married couple, the wife mentioned that she was glad that she was finally receiving cunnilingus more often. What the husband immediately said in response, I must admit, it tickled me: “Well, that’s what tends to happen over here when the jungle turns into a golf course.” He’s not alone in feeling that way, either, because studies reveal that most people are likely to receive more oral sex when they groom regularly, down below.
What I find to be interesting is what that actually looks like based on gender. While a whopping 73 percent of men prefer that there is no (pubic) hair on a woman, only 56 percent of women prefer that to be the case (personally, I am not one of them; I just need things to be well-manicured). Something that didn’t surprise me is the fact that young people seem to be more caught up in all of this than older people are. That tracks.
6. Shaving Is Most Preferred. Waxing Isn’t As Popular As You Might Think.
Several years back, a study on pubic hair was conducted at the University of California-San Francisco. A little over 3,300 women between the ages of 18-65 were asked about their pubic hair maintenance practices, and 62 percent said that they either shaved or waxed off all of their pubic hair, while 22 percent trimmed, and only 16 percent did nothing. Their findings also revealed that going completely bald was most popular among white, college-educated women.
Meanwhile, a similar study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Texas. It featured almost 1,700 women between the ages of 18-40. What they shared is that 77 percent preferred to remove pubic hair by shaving it off, while only 16 percent waxed, which is kind of a trip when you think about how popular the Brazilian wax continues to be. Hmph.
7. Pubic Hair Can Intensify Clitoral Stimulation
If you’ve ever attempted plucking a pubic hair (maybe because one is ingrown or something), you already know how uncomfortable that is. That’s because each pubic hair follicle is attached to a nerve, and that is what makes this point make so much sense.
Yet one more reason why you might want to keep some pubic hair around is if your partner gently pulls or tugs on the ones that are on your pubic mound, that could actually intensify how stimulated your clitoris becomes. Try it. You just might like it.
8. Pubic Hair Needs an Exfoliant and Conditioner
As for me personally, when it comes to self-care and maintenance for my skin, two things that I try to get a few times a year is a back facial and a vajacial (which I agree with one author who said that it should actually be called a vulvacial since the treatment focuses on the outer part of the vagina). The back is because, even though I adore my African Net Sponges, since I can’t actually see all of my back, I like having an esthetician thoroughly tend to it. And my vajacials — well, not only does it pamper my vulvar skin that is waxed, it can also soften my pubic hair and remove/prevent any ingrown hairs and hyperpigmentation that may be going on in that space.
That said, if you want to treat your vulvar skin yourself, use some exfoliating gloves to exfoliate that area and then apply some conditioner to your pubic hair in order to soften it up a bit. As far as the gloves go, apply gentle pressure and rub in circular motions. Also, if you recently had a wax appointment, wait 48 hours before exfoliating, so that you don’t irritate that part of your body. Conditioner-wise, a regular conditioner is fine; just make sure to avoid having it get inside of your labia or into your vagina as much as possible, so that the ingredients of the conditioner don't irritate it.
9. Apparently, a Hot Trend Is Full Bushes in Bikinis Right Now
It’s your hair, so do with it what you will. That said, though, I must admit that I did “pause and ponder” when I recently read that a pubic hair trend right now is rocking full bushes while in a bikini. Honestly, that leaves me with so many questions that I’m just gonna say that if you’re — pardon the pun — big on trends, that’s what’s hot with pubes, so…go with God on this one. LOL.
10. Pubic Hair Thins with Age
A hormone that’s produced at an accelerated rate during puberty is something that is known as androgens. Although males produce them more, we have them as well, and a part of what they do is help our bodies to produce pubic hair. Anyway, as we age (especially once we’re post-menopause), our bodies tend to produce fewer androgens, which can result in thinning pubic hair and even pubic hair loss. After menopause, this will start to become more obvious.
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If you already knew about all of this, I’m impressed. Do me a solid and spread the word to others.
Something that never ceases to amaze me about the human body is that all of its parts serve super relevant and necessary purposes.
As you can see, pubic hair is not exempt. Not at all.
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Adrian Marcel On Purpose, Sacrifice, And The 'Signs Of Life'
In this week's episode of xoMAN, host Kiara Walker talked with R&B artist Adrian Marcel, who opened up, full of heart and authenticity, about his personal evolution. He discussed his days transitioning from a young Bay Area singer on the come-up to becoming a grounded husband and father of four.
With honesty and introspection, Marcel reflected on how life, love, and loss have shaped the man he is today.
On ‘Life’s Subtle Signals’
Much of the conversation centered around purpose, sacrifice, and listening to life’s subtle signals. “I think that you really have to pay attention to the signs of life,” Marcel said. “Because as much as we need to make money, we are not necessarily on this Earth for that sole purpose, you know what I mean?” While he acknowledged his ambitions, adding, “that is not me saying at all I’m not trying to ball out,” he emphasized that fulfillment goes deeper.
“We are here to be happy. We are here [to] fulfill a purpose that we are put on here for.”
On Passion vs. Survival
Adrian spoke candidly about the tension between passion and survival, describing how hardship can sometimes point us away from misaligned paths. “If you find it’s constantly hurting you… that’s telling you something. That’s telling you that you’re going outside of your purpose.”
Marcel’s path hasn’t been without detours. A promising athlete in his youth, he recalled, “Early on in my career, I was still doing sports… I was good… I had a scholarship.” An injury changed everything. “My femur broke. Hence why I always say, you know, I’m gonna keep you hip like a femur.” After the injury, he pivoted to explore other careers, including teaching and corporate jobs.
“It just did not get me—even with any success that happened in anything—those times, back then, I was so unhappy. And you know, to a different degree. Like not just like, ‘I really want to be a singer so that’s why I’m unhappy.’ Nah, it was like, it was not fulfilling me in any form or fashion.”
On Connection Between Pursuing Music & Fatherhood
He recalled performing old-school songs at age 12 to impress girls, then his father challenged him: “You can lie to these girls all you want, but you're really just lying to yourself. You ain't growing.” That push led him to the piano—and eventually, to his truth. “Music is my love,” Marcel affirmed. “I wouldn’t be a happy husband if I was here trying to do anything else just to appease her [his wife].”
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
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Pack A Travel Case With These 12 Items For Amazing 'Summer Vacation Sex'
It’s kind of funny that while I’m literally in the process of writing this article, the Los Angeles Times published “How to get lucky on your family vacation” hours prior. LOL. Although this year marks a bit of a dip in the amount of Americans who plan on taking a summer vacation (because this administration ain’t making coin-keeping easy, y’all) — it’s still being reported that around 53 percent will do so in the name of rest, relaxation and spending quality time with their loved ones.
And for many, the loved ones category absolutely includes their bae. And if that is the case, that probably means that sex is somewhere on the menu.
Yep. I actually read one survey (that consisted of 2,000 people) that said folks tend to have twice as much sex while they are on vacation than they do when they’re at home. It makes sense too when you factor in that you have less to do (unless you’re traveling with those folks who act like you need an itinerary for every damn thing — and we all know one…SMDH), which makes you less stressed out, which makes it easier to feel sexy and to want to get sexual.
And so, in the spirit of that indeed being the case, I want to make sure that you carve out a corner of your suitcase or carry-on to include at least half of the following 12 things that are on this list — things that can help to make “summer vacation sex”…that much hotter, y’all.
1. Edible-Grade Sunscreen
It can’t be said enough that, no matter how melanated you may be, your skin needs sunscreen. Not only to protect yourself from the risk of skin cancer (which 1 in 5 Americans will get in their lifetime) but from premature aging that can come from sun damage too. That said, if the urge arises to have sex outside somewhere, I did find some edible-grade sunscreen, in case you’re either worried about what sex in the sun will do to your skin or how all of the chemicals in sunscreen will affect your (digestive) system. The company is called Sky & Sol and you can read up on them here.
2. Flavored Lip Balm
If you’ve ever wondered why your lips are so susceptible to being chapped, it’s because they don’t contain any oil glans to keep them moisturized. This is especially important to keep in mind when the weather is extremely cold or hot because that can do a real number on the sensitive skin that your lips are made out of. That’s why it’s essential to stay well-hydrated and to also keep some lip balm in tow. Lip balm is especially designed to moisturize your lips, reduce chapping, exfoliate, soothe irritation and protect your lips from UV damage. As a bonus, lip balm will also help to keep your lips super soft and kissable; especially if you get the flavored kind. #wink
3. Condoms
I’m still out here, literally shaking my damn head, that reportedly, only one-third of men and one-fourth of women use condoms (and even many of those folks don’t do it consistently). It can’t be said enough that if you’re not in a monogamous (married) or exclusive (dating) relationship where you both are getting regularly tested and are on some other form of birth control (unless you want to get pregnant) — you absolutely should be using condoms and, as a woman, you should not solely rely on your partner to have some that are ready and available.
Not just because you should be responsible for your body and health but because not all condoms are made equal, so you should bring along some that you prefer/enjoy. If you’d like a lil’ help picking those out, check out “These Are The Kinds Of Condoms Your Vagina Would Actually Prefer.”
4. Crotchless Swimsuit
Packing some sexy lingerie? I certainly hope that goes without saying. If you’ve got a hot tub around, though and you want to “get it in” without getting totally naked (so that nosey people won’t see every damn thing), you do know that there are some crotchless swimsuits out in these streets, right? An example of one is here. Of course, you can always do what Beyoncé said in “Drunk in Love” and just move ish over to the side but…I’m just giving you another creative option…if you wanted one.
5. Blindfolds
If you’d like to cultivate an atmosphere of mystery or anticipation, a simple blindfold will do the trick. There is another reason why I think they are great for summer vacation (sex) trips, though — if your hotel room doesn’t come with blackout curtains and you want to have a quickie or two without the room being so bright, putting on a blindfold can solve that “problem” too.
6. Waterproof Sex Toys
Who said that you have to wait until you get to your hotel room to engage in some foreplay? If you bring a couple of sex toys around, you can tease each other practically anywhere — and if they are waterproof, that includes in the ocean or pool. Some, you can pair up with your smartphone in order to stimulate your partner from just about anywhere. Whew, chile.
7. Homemade Sex Toys Too
Speaking of sex toys, you’d probably be amazed at how many things in your house can double up as one. A spatula or wooden spoon is great for spanking. A necktie, some tights and a pair of clothespins work well for BDSM (use your imagination, sis). An electronic toothbrush is its own vibrator. A string of (lubricated) pearls in between your thighs? Girrrl…GIRL. Oh, and cop a silicone ice tray that comes in different shapes.
When you are rubbing ice in the shape of fruit, flowers or even animals over each other’s bodies, you’ll be surprised by how the combination of the cold with the texture of the space of the ice will stimulate you (make the ice out of juice instead of water for an extra sweet treat!).
8. Portable Charger
I don’t know what took me so long to get a damn portable charger but it’s one of the best things that ever happened to me. What I personally purchased is the ANKER Zolo Power Bank, 20,000mAh 30W High-Speed Portable Charger. I can throw it in my purse, it charges fast, I can use more than once before needing to recharge it; plus, it complements most devices. A great thing to keep in mind, so that your sex toys don’t end up going out on you while you’re…wherever you are.
9. Massage Oil Candle
Going through security at the airport can be a HEADACHE. And while, how long it can take, oftentimes varies on the airport you’re at and the time you are traveling (you can read more about that here), the process is going to be especially annoying if they have to go through your bags. Since you can currently only pack a quarter-sized bag of liquid products on your carry-on, my two cents would be to leave the massage oil at home and pack a massage oil candle instead.
That way, you can still engage in some temperature play (check out “Hot Sex: 10 Super Sultry Reasons To Bring Wax Play Into Your Bedroom”) while you’re on the road without going through any security hassle hang-ups. Some edible massage oil candles are located right here.
10. Wine Cooler Sleeve
Say that you end up going on a wine tasting tour while you’re on vacation and you end up purchasing a bottle or you simply want to toast with some champagne but you’re not sure how to store the bottle. Did you know that there are wine cooler sleeves that are lightweight, portable and will help to keep your bottles cold without condensation for hours on end? A brand that comes highly recommended is here.
11. Rose Petals
I think there are a few reasons why rose petals are oftentimes used to create a sexy mood. Red symbolizes love and passion. Rose petals are soft to the touch. The scent of them is considered to be an aphrodisiac as well. For all of these reasons, bring along some fresh rose petals for your hotel bed. If you put a damp paper towel in something like a small Tupperware container and then place the rose petals inside of that, they won’t dry out quickly which will make them feel great once you’re ready to start rolling around in them (you can also keep them in your hotel room’s fridge to further extend their shelf life).
12. Mints
Morning sex. Outdoor sex. Whatever kind of sex — it’s always going to be better when your breath and his smell good. And just so you don’t have to lug around a big bottle of mouthwash, pack some mints. Altoids are always going to be my number one draft pick — yet go with whatever are your personal faves. They’re the perfect hack for unbelievable summer vacation sex. Wouldn’t you agree? Enjoy!
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