Yes, pubic hair often thins, becomes finer, and turns gray or white with age due to hormonal changes (decreased androgens/estrogen) and reduced melanin, similar to scalp hair, with significant changes often seen after menopause, though genetics play a big role. While some loss is normal, a sudden, significant loss can signal an underlying issue, so consulting a doctor is wise if you're concerned, noteAxia Women's Health and Healthline say.
Estrogen plays a role in controlling the growth of pubic hair. As menopause occurs there is a reduction in the amount of estrogen that is available in our system. This slows down hair growth. It means that women may notice less pubic hair or thinner pubic hair as they age.
Pubic area
Loss of pubic hair may indicate low testosterone, low estrogen, imbalanced DHT, or combinations of hormone fluctuations. This type of hair loss commonly occurs with age. Yet, if it happens suddenly or severely, it may signal another underlying condition and should be evaluated.
Changes to Your Pubic Hair
This may result in a loss of pubic hair so that your pubic hair becomes thinner and more sparse. Similarly, just as the hair on your head becomes grey with time so may your pubic hair because of a reduction in the amount of melatonin or pigment in the hair follicles.
For girls, puberty typically ends around age 15 to 17 years. For boys, it tends to end around age 16 to 17 years. Again, every child is different, so these ages can vary.
As an ob-gyn, I want you to know that pubic hair is normal. Whether to groom or let it grow is your choice—no one else's. And there is no reason to apologize about your pubic hair, to your ob-gyn or anyone else.
Many people find that when they enter the menopause the hair on their head starts to thin. And it is equally as common to lose pubic hair too, as well as hair on the legs, arms, and elsewhere on the body. This is predominantly due to hormonal changes.
Removing pubic hair is not necessary to keep the vulva or vaginal area clean. Pubic hair can help protect the skin and prevent chafing. Hair removal is a personal preference. Some people do not remove any of their pubic hair, and others may remove only the hair that grows outside of the bikini line.
Let me introduce: Full bush in a bikini. Those words—repeated over and over again with varying emphasis—were trending on TikTok in January 2025, in what could have been the app's final days. It began with a video by artist Sujindah that has been viewed more than 14 million times.
Patients with ophiasis pattern alopecia typically notice:
Electrolysis and laser hair removal can remove pubic hair long-term, but they tend to be more expensive. American Academy of Dermatology.
By the time you turn 30, you have a 25% chance of displaying some balding. By age 50, 50% of men have at least some noticeable hair loss. By age 60, about two-thirds are either bald or have a balding pattern. While hair loss is more common as you get older, it doesn't necessarily make it any easier to accept.
You have body hair almost everywhere on your skin. Most of this hair is vellus hair. The only places where hair doesn't grow are: Your lips.
Just like with the hair on your head, as you grow older, the hair on your pubic region will begin to thin out and turn grey. "Just like any other part of your body with skin, glands, and hair follicles, the appearance of the vagina is affect[ed] by the aging process and how well you [take] care of it," Dr.
For men, grey hairs normally start at the temples and sideburns. Women tend to start greying on the hairline, especially at the front. The most rapid greying usually happens between ages 50 and 60.
No Shaving, No Problem
The good news is, if you never shave your pubic hair, nothing drastic happens. Pubic hair grows to a certain length and then stops, so you're not going to end up with a never-ending forest. In fact, going without shaving can reduce the risk of skin irritation, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs.
White pubic hair is not inherently alarming, especially in older individuals. However, if accompanied by other abnormalities, it may indicate underlying health concerns. Consult a physician to investigate and address possible causes, including: Vitamin B12 Deficiency.
Overall Hair Thinning
Hair thinning during perimenopause typically occurs as a diffuse pattern affecting the entire scalp rather than concentrated areas. Women often notice gradual hair density reduction, making the scalp more visible through their hair, particularly under bright lighting.
During menopause, your body makes less estrogen. Without estrogen, the lining of your vagina can become thinner and less stretchy. Your vaginal canal can also narrow and shorten. Less estrogen also lowers the amount of normal vaginal fluids and changes the acid balance in your vagina.
Gen Z's approach to pubic hair is diverse, with a growing trend of embracing natural body hair, challenging older norms, but many still prefer some form of grooming like trimming over complete removal, with personal preference and comfort being key drivers, influenced heavily by social media trends. While some opt for "au naturel" looks, many in Gen Z trim for a "bikini-shaped bush," balancing naturalness with neatness, and views vary significantly, with TikTok promoting both naturalness and styling.
Your Pubic Hair Serves a Purpose
It provides protection against friction that can cause skin irritation in this sensitive area. It helps reduce the amount of sweat produced around the vagina. It helps block your vagina from the following bacteria and infections: Sexually transmitted infections.
Other studies have found that hygienic purposes are the most common motivations for pubic hair removal. These results suggest that along with their pubes, women may be getting rid of important microbial niche and protection against recurrent UTIs.