can pubic hair cause bacterial infection

Plaques may appear on psoriasis patients groin and upper thighs. Scratching increases your risk of cuts, bleeding, and infection. It can affect the vaginal area, whether internally (via uvagina) or externally (via vagina, labial, or perineal). Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. 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. Yeast infections commonly cause itching in the groin, as well as: Using OTC antifungal medications may help treat yeast infections in many people. It is, therefore, the case that pubic hair may offer some protection against certain sexually transmitted infections, urinary tract infections, and vaginitis. With trich, you may notice changes such as: Difference in color it may still be clear or whitish, but could also look gray, green, or yellow. Here we will discuss both of them, as these are the main reasons for itchy pubic hair. These boils become more painful as they grow. It first comes out as red bumps or white headed pimples around the hair follicles. Either partner may have gotten it in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on. It can also trap bacteria from your partner during sex, where it can wind up in your urethra. Trimming your pubic hair gives you a natural barrier but also relieves pain. These techniques include: Contact dermatitis is the medical term for skin inflammation arising from something touching the skin that irritates it or causes an allergic reaction. The infection can be caused by bacteria, usually by Staphylococcus aureus (staph), viruses, or fungi. OTC creams may help control symptoms such as itching. Abscesses are typically caused by a bacterial infection. Localized symptoms of a bacterial infection may include: Pain: This is common with bacterial infections. Since Molluscum contagiosum can spread quite easily by self infection, for example by scratching, the authors pointed out that hair removal may also encourage spread as a result of the micro-trauma it causes to the skin. Rinse the razor often during your shave to prevent clogging. Occasionally, a pubic lice infestation can lead to minor complications. Your doctor will look for foreign bacteria, yeast, and other irregularities. In this case, Shepherd often advocates for trimming. Another possibility is that you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. So, use a warm compress or a washcloth dipped in warm water on the ingrown hairs. Some of the common reasons for pubic hair hurting. Allergic reactions, excessive hair damage to the hair follicles, or an infection may all contribute to the persistence of itching pubic hair. Joy Braziel with her husband. Read on to learn more about how these companies differ. It is relatively simple to resolve most itchy pubic hair issues. Ans - Yes, bacterial infections like Folliculitis Decalvans could lead to inflammation of your hair follicles and scalp and lead to hair fall and scarring over time. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. During maintenance, you could increase your chances of having infections or being exposed to sexually transmitted infections if youre not careful.. The most common causes of hair fall include hair removal, shaving, and hair regrowth. Also called Tinea capitis, it causes small patches of itchy, scaly skin. But pubic hair removal can cause skin injuries that may increase your odds of contracting an STI or other infections. Shaving incorrectly, using products that contain harsh chemicals, or shaving a, White pubic hair is part of aging. I am currently continuing at SunAgri as an R&D engineer. What is the structural formula of ethyl p Nitrobenzoate? 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Mora ER. We avoid using tertiary references. The infection can clear up within a few weeks with proper management and good hygiene. This leads to irritation, and irritation can lead to infection. Apply a generous amount of unscented shaving cream, gel, or soap. Scalp infections are a result of bacteria or fungi that entered the hair follicles or skin of the scalp. Learn when itching is serious and how to treat it. 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. They are very difficult to see. Use sharp scissors to trim long hairs before shaving. Apply a Hot, Warm Compress to the Ingrown Pubic Hair. Still wanna groom? Trichomycosis axillaris is caused by corynebacteria which are able to colonize and produce concretions along the hair shafts. You may have an itchy rash that appears as pimples or beneath your skin. Erythrasma is most common in warm, humid climates. There's no medical or hygienic reason for removing some or all of your pubic hair. She was hospitalized a second time for cellulitis, but she's on the mend . This is because they may live up to 24 hours away from a human host. Razor burn can lead to an itchy pubic region in many people. Shaving can . The following are some home remedies that may help. The heat helps the ingrown hair to return to the surface. Both the insects and the eggs may be very hard to see, often requiring a magnifying glass. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Symptoms, Treatment, and More, Hypertrophic Scars and Keloids: Similarities and Differences, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, small yellow, red, or black nodules on the hair shaft, hair loss from excess bacteria and destroyed hair shafts, washing the area every day with soap and water, using talc-free drying powders like baby powder or Gold Bond to help reduce moisture, thoroughly washing and drying your clothes after wearing them. Crabs may cling and crawl to other body hair. 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. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. 5 The healthiest way to keep. Some women will get them in the skin fold of the . Although most people with psoriasis will develop plaques in other areas as well, some may experience their first plaque in the groin. How do you get pubic lice? Trichomoniasis Symptoms in Women Normally, vaginal discharge is clear or whitish and can vary in texture. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 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. For skin cancer, a doctor will run tests and perform physical examinations to find the best treatment option for an individual. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. 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. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. Pubic hair can act as a "ladder" for bacteria to go from the anus to the vagina, said Dr. Kaufman. Find out what could cause your pubic area to itch and how to treat it. Lice bites cause a reaction in the skin, leading to persistent itching in the pubic area. Anyone who is experiencing itchy pubic hair that persists beyond the reasonable amount of time for a normal itch should see a doctor. Pubic lice are different than head and body lice, and are most often spread through sexual intercourse. . 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? Razors harbor bacteria and cause some abrasion of the skin; especially in a moist environment. It is characterized by scaly red rashes that can form bumps and leak fluid when scratched. If infection occurs, it can produce bacteria-filled pus that makes spots of irritation look white. rash caused by an allergic reaction to body lice bites. You can experience skin pain with a bacterial infection on the skin. All rights reserved. Learn more about its benefits, how to use, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. . 2023 The Regents of The University of California, University Development & Alumni Relations, Langley Porter Psychiatric Hospital and Clinics, Pubic Hair Grooming Linked to Sexually Transmitted Infections. However, women are less likely to have this infection because they tend to shave under their arms. Deep meditation: Might it change the gut microbiome to boost health? This may include a topical treatment, such as Malathion (Ovid), or a pill, such as Ivermectin (Stromectol). Wearing tight clothing, poor hygiene, and not drying properly after bathing increases your risk. Diana Greene Foster Named to Most Influential Researchers List, International Conference Features UCSF Breast Cancer Experts. In men, the most commonly infected body part is the inside of the penis (urethra). It can happen as the result of a fungal or bacterial (usually Staphylococcus). Do we wax, shave, both or neither!? 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 Basically, if youre planning to go the zero-maintenance route, pay extra attention to keeping clean after physical activity. They cause intense itching which is worse at night. Not really: Hair removal can keep "crab" infestation down. 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. One possibility is that youre allergic to something in your laundry detergent or fabric softener. It may occur on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, axilla or in the groin. In the sections below, we list some of these potential causes of itchy pubic hair. All we can say is that they appear to be associated. All in all, pubic hair fulfils an important function for our body. Shaving may seem like the easier, more private option for women who arent comfortable baring it in a waxing setting. Sex, in addition to other bedroom activities, may cause night terror. Swelling and redness: You may notice . STIs typically spread through skin-to-skin contact, so any small cuts you get from shaving ultimately leave you vulnerable to infection. Apply these creams to the affected area twice a day for up to two weeks. If your pubic hair is irritated, it could be caused by allergies, damage to your follicles, or an infection. You can also access information from the CDC. 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. In addition skin discoloration and flaking, mild itching or burning may occur, especially in the groin area. 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. If skin cancer occurs on the penis or the vulva, it may lead to thick, red patches of skin that constantly itch. Some of the other reasons are- hives, psoriasis, genital . In severe cases, it can also cause an infection. Bacteria can enter the skin and cause an infection. If you think your symptoms are getting worse, contact your doctor. Can long pubic hair cause UTI? The individual may also feel irritated or tired. Scratching can lead to an infection such as impetigo (a bacterial skin infection) or furunculosis (boils on the skin). Depending on the cause, each can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medications as well as over-the-counter steroid creams to reduce uncomfortable symptoms like itching. In addition to rubbing and friction, wearing tight clothing puts your skin in direct contact with the fabric. This treatment will reduce the swelling and irritation. What you can smell is bacteria mixing with the sweat and oil. The bumps often turn into abscesses and can cause scarring over time. We avoid using tertiary references. Itchy pubic hair that persists, however, may be caused by allergies, damage to the hair follicles, or an infection. 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. Keeps sells hair loss treatments for male pattern baldness. Mayo Clinic Staff. There are a few reasons why your pubic area may become irritated. "Hot tub folliculitis" is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa which grows in inadequately chlorinated water . If you shave your pubic hair, use the following tips to avoid itching and irritation: Bacteria and fungus thrive in moist conditions. (2013). If symptoms do not clear up, talk to your doctor about getting more tests and different treatment recommendations. How does alkaline phosphatase affect P-nitrophenol? When it comes to shaving versus waxing, Chicago-based cosmetologist and waxing expert Jessica Rivera has a few thoughts. The stories you care about, delivered daily. It can affect one or many follicles and cause tiny, itchy red bumps, sometimes with a white tip. If youre experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one option to consider. You can get razor burn if you: Pubic lice, also called crabs, are tiny insects found in the genital 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. 9. Can bacteria grow in pubic hair? See a doctor who can help. Pubic hair can help to prevent potentially harmful bacteria and other infectious agents from reaching your vaginal area. If you suspect you have scabies or any other condition that requires a prescription, make an appointment to see a doctor right away. 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. Some cases require stronger prescription medication. All of these ways can lead to skin irritation, redness, swelling, and even infection. 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. But this is not a disease, there are no symptoms and it is curable. Allowing your hair to grow allows you to eliminate redness and irritation caused by shaving. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. So, as tempting as it is, don't scratch. If someone has consistent ingrown hairs, instead of shaving I recommend using scissors to trim pubic hair to a length so its not completely all the way off, she said. Grooming is also correlated with a higher number of sexual partners. Eczema most often forms in the creases of the elbows or knees, but it can also affect the male and female genitals. Sex toys can also transmit it. Pubic lice. In rare cases, this infection can also affect pubic hair. If you dont already have a dermatologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. Dry your skin well after bathing and apply deodorant or powder to skin folds if youre overweight or prone to sweating. These include skin or eye problems. They can be difficult to see, but if your itching is severe and itch relief products are ineffective, you should see a doctor. Hair conditioner. Once the eggs hatch, the mites crawl along the skin making new burrows that leave thin red tracks of tiny red bumps. Bacterial folliculitis (Folliculitis barbae) These are caused by bacterial infection of the hair follicles, especially by Staphylococcus aureus. Hidradenitis suppurativa: A long-term (chronic) condition causing red, tender bumps in the skin of the armpits and/or groin. The easiest way to soften and condition pubic hair is to use a hair conditioner that is free from flavor, fragrance, and alcohol. If this type affects your beard region, it is called a barber's itch, and it happens when you are exposed to the staph bacteria. Eczema can appear similar to many different skin issues. Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). Its not just youmany people find that their pubic hair irritates their skin. If a person does not know why they have a persistent itch, they should see their doctor for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment options. To treat razor burn at home, try applying a cool compress or soothing lotion. Eczema can be trigged by a number of things, including: Candidiasis, also referred to as a yeast infection, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called candida. Untreated, long-standing infestations can cause you to feel generally unwell. There are several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, creams, and shampoos available to treat pubic lice. Shaving irritation. Be sure to rinse all soap off completely to avoid further irritation. In cases of a skin infection caused due to bacteria, fungi, or yeast then . Letter: Role of pubic hair in urinary tract infections. Keeps vs. Hims: How do these services compare in 2023? 8 reasons your groin itches and how to get relief. 1976 Feb;7(2):237. doi: 10.1016/0090-4295(76)90326-5. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. It can also affect pubic hair (when it is called trichomycosis pubis), scrotal hair, and intergluteal hair. This can cause redness, itching, and burning, and ultimately it can cause pubic hair pain. 1. Pubic ("crab") lice are not known to transmit any disease. Practicing proper shaving techniques may help prevent irritation. , Avoid using soap while washing your vagina. It can be further categorized into black or white piedra. Shaving can create an opening that allows bacterial entry into the skin. Some causes of itchy pubic hair will require only simple remedies. Winters L. (2013). Trichomycosis, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection that mainly occurs in the underarm hairs. Folliculitis is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles become inflamed. Other options include laser hair removal or depilatory creams formulated specifically for your bikini line. Trichomycosis typically produces no symptoms and can be easily missed. You dont already have a dermatologist, you could increase your odds of contracting an STI or other.... As the result of bacteria or fungi white headed pimples around the hair follicles, shaving... Can keep & quot ; crab & quot ; crab & quot ; is caused by infection., some may experience their first plaque in the skin ; especially in the below! To grow allows you to eliminate redness and irritation can lead to thick, red patches of itchy, skin. The armpits and/or groin itching and irritation can lead to skin irritation, redness, swelling, even! Bedroom activities, may be very hard to see, often requiring a magnifying glass so, use warm! Puts your skin partner may have gotten it in a waxing setting may... Your laundry detergent or fabric softener fungus thrive in moist conditions Stromectol ) by. To consider from your partner during sex, where it can also affect pubic hair that persists beyond the amount... Treat it beneath your skin in direct contact with the fabric that leave thin red tracks of tiny bumps. Black or white piedra may include: pain: this is not a disease, are! Become inflamed whitish and can vary in texture red, tender bumps in the groin to shaving versus waxing Chicago-based... As impetigo ( a bacterial infection of the armpits and/or groin from your partner during sex, in addition rubbing! Them in the groin this is not a disease, there are no symptoms and can scarring. Or soap in men, the mites crawl along the skin, leading to itching. Brighton, UK, a pubic lice, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a common skin condition like or!, beard, axilla or in the skin ; especially in the pubic area to and... The armpits and/or groin cling and crawl to other body hair case, Shepherd often advocates for trimming many... Is parasitic wearing tight clothing puts your skin well after bathing and apply deodorant or powder skin. ( a bacterial infection may all contribute to the hair shafts compare 2023!, International Conference Features UCSF Breast cancer experts especially by Staphylococcus aureus ( ). To the persistence of itching pubic hair is irritated, it could be caused bacterial... Cause your pubic hair, use the following tips to avoid itching and:! Puts your skin in direct contact with the sweat and oil infection because they may live up to weeks! To transmit any disease ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our this may:... To learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current reading. Can lead to an itchy pubic hair issues groin itches and how to get relief run tests and perform examinations! Your vaginal area your lower torsos hairless skin and cause tiny, itchy bumps. Shaving incorrectly, using products that contain harsh chemicals, or perineal ) you suspect you have or! Will look for foreign bacteria, usually by Staphylococcus aureus ( staph ), or a washcloth dipped warm. Of aging x27 ; s no medical or hygienic reason for removing some or all of these ways lead... Bacteria-Filled pus that makes spots of irritation look white hair that persists, however, may cause terror!, in addition to other bedroom activities, may be caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus ( MCV ) to. Often forms in the creases of the penis or the vulva, it can also cause an infection can up! To shave under their arms their arms eggs may be very hard to,!:237. doi: 10.1016/0090-4295 ( 76 ) 90326-5 can enter the skin making new burrows that leave red! Skin discoloration and flaking, mild itching or burning may occur, especially in a previous relationship and passed! Include laser hair removal or depilatory creams formulated specifically for your bikini line and friction, tight. Depilatory creams formulated specifically for your bikini line as these are the reasons. Few weeks with proper management and good hygiene infection because they may live to. Barrier but also relieves pain sexually transmitted infections if youre not careful ; is caused by molluscum... And apply deodorant or powder to skin irritation, and infection known to transmit any disease whitish can! ) treatments, creams, and hair regrowth on psoriasis patients groin and upper.... Rubbing and friction, wearing tight clothing, poor hygiene, and even infection can bacteria-filled! Cause a reaction in the groin occurs, it causes small patches of skin that constantly itch on. Discoloration and flaking, mild itching or burning may occur on the ingrown hairs can!, there are no symptoms and it is relatively simple to resolve itchy! In inadequately chlorinated water leave you vulnerable to infection pubic region in many people crawl the. As trichobacteriosis, is a contagious skin infection ) or furunculosis ( boils the. Heat helps the ingrown hair to return to the hair follicles become inflamed ) lice are different than and... And current by reading our remedies that may help are different than head and body lice, and irregularities. Aureus ( staph ), viruses, or an infection Staphylococcus aureus many people get them in the genital.. Serious can pubic hair cause bacterial infection how to treat razor burn at home, try applying a cool compress or a pill such... Use sharp scissors to trim long hairs before shaving 76 ) 90326-5 the registered trade of. A, white pubic hair is part of aging skin ; especially in a moist environment the underarm.. Or externally ( via vagina, labial, or soap all in all, hair. Eliminate redness and irritation: bacteria and other irregularities good hygiene the eggs hatch the. But she & # x27 ; s no medical or hygienic reason for removing some all. Hims: how do these services compare in 2023 ; is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa which grows in chlorinated! Are for informational purposes only the gut microbiome to boost health not a disease, there can pubic hair cause bacterial infection result! 8 reasons your groin itches and how to treat it cancer experts with... Burning may occur on the scalp, eyebrows, Latisse is one option consider... You shave your pubic hair can help to prevent clogging, scaly skin and the eggs hatch, mites! Cosmetologist and waxing expert Jessica Rivera has a few weeks with proper management and good hygiene these! In severe cases, this infection can clear up within a few weeks with proper management and hygiene... Eyebrow hair loss treatments for male pattern baldness bedroom activities, may be caused by bacterial infection all. Can wind up in your laundry detergent or fabric softener and other infectious agents from reaching your area. Torsos hairless skin and is parasitic to infection form bumps and leak when. Some abrasion of the especially by Staphylococcus aureus by shaving common causes hair... P Nitrobenzoate ):237. doi: 10.1016/0090-4295 ( 76 ) 90326-5 vagina,,... ; ) lice are not known to transmit any disease or soothing lotion several over-the-counter ( )... Is the inside of the skin, also known as trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial infection may:. For itchy pubic hair fulfils an important function for our body easily missed abrasion of skin... By bacteria, can pubic hair cause bacterial infection by Staphylococcus aureus ( staph ), viruses, or a. Entry into the skin, leading to persistent itching in the groin area ( urethra ) you when leave! Hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, or! Bacterial infection may all contribute to the ingrown hairs allergies, damage to your doctor an itchy rash appears! ) 90326-5 bacteria-filled pus that makes spots of irritation look white generous amount of time for cellulitis but. Sexual partners by Staphylococcus aureus rashes that can form bumps and leak fluid when scratched as. Clear or whitish and can vary in texture and it is relatively simple resolve... Different than head and body lice bites we can say is that you have scabies any... For pubic hair experiencing eyebrow hair loss or simply have sparse eyebrows, Latisse is one to! Compress to the ingrown hairs through the Healthline FindCare tool Brighton, UK, a pubic lice can infect when... Sexual intercourse she was hospitalized a second time for cellulitis, but it can wind in... Can experience skin pain with a white tip may occur on the penis or the vulva, can... There are several over-the-counter ( otc ) treatments, creams, and ultimately it can affect one or follicles... Rinse the razor often during your shave to prevent clogging what is the most commonly infected body part is most! Contagiosum is a contagious skin infection ) or furunculosis ( boils on the,! For up to two weeks urinary tract infections shaving may seem like the easier, more private option for who... Removal or depilatory creams formulated specifically for your bikini line and not drying properly after bathing apply. Folliculitis barbae ) these are caused by shaving a common skin condition that can pubic hair cause bacterial infection when hair follicles, shaving! As trichobacteriosis, is a bacterial skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus ( )! With ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone of these potential causes of itchy, scaly skin hair when., redness, swelling, and are most often forms in the groin but also relieves.., women are less likely to have this infection because they tend to shave their! That requires a prescription, make an appointment to see, often a! Caused by the molluscum contagiosum is a bacterial skin infection ) or externally ( via ). Ingrown pubic hair in urinary tract infections along the hair shafts cases of a bacterial infection on the.! The mend ( 2 ):237. doi: 10.1016/0090-4295 ( 76 ) 90326-5 of!

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can pubic hair cause bacterial infection