How to stop itching from hair growing back

Does your crotch itch refuse to quit? It might be your pubes. Whether you rock a bald eagle or slay a glorious bush, pubic hair can get super itchy.

Here’s why your “hair down there” might be bothering you, plus the best ways to ditch the itch.

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Lots of things can lead to discomfort down under. Here are 12 possible causes of your pubic itch.

1. Razor burn

Feel the (razor) burn? In addition to those annoying red or discolored bumps, a bad pubic shave can up the itch factor.

You increase your risk of razor burn if you:

• shave too fast
• use a dull razor
• shave too often
• don’t use enough soap or shaving cream

Shaving your pubes isn’t always the safest choice for dodging irritation.

2. Crabs

Pubic lice (aka crabs 🦀) are tiny insects that like to set up camp in your groin area. As well as being creepy AF, pubic lice can turn your crotch into a total itch-fest.

The most common way to contract crabs is through sex. But you can also contract them if you share towels, bedding, or clothes.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis develops when your skin reacts to an irritant and becomes dry, scaly, or bumpy. This can lead to a threat level midnight scratch attack.

In addition to itching, skin irritation can trigger:

• redness or discoloration
• burning
• inflammation

4. Allergic dermatitis

As much as we may like sweet-smelling soaps, fragrant soaps can cause allergic contact dermatitis, according to DermNet NZ.

Symptoms can also include:

• pain
• itching
• blisters
• burning
• redness or discoloration

It’s not just skin or hair products — you can contract allergic dermatitis from poison ivy, poison oak, or latex, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

The latex in condoms might also have led to your current itching. You can purchase latex-free condoms online.

Or if, y’know, you rubbed poison ivy on your crotch (it takes all sorts).

5. Scabies

Lice aren’t the only critters you have to watch out for — scabies can also do your coochie or d*ck dirty.

Microscopic mites burrow into your skin and cause this rash (yikes). They usually like to set up shop on or near your butt, breasts, knees, and genitals (seriously, you guys are super weird).

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, you might contract scabies from close contact or sharing towels, sheets, or clothes with a person who contracted it.

6. Psoriasis

This chronic autoimmune condition causes thick, scaly patches on your skin. Its effects can develop anywhere on your body. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, inverse psoriasis is a severe type that usually hits your genitals the hardest.

There’s no cure for psoriasis at the moment. But you can soothe and manage its effects by using meds and ointments or undergoing light therapy.

FYI: Psoriasis is not contagious.

7. Jock itch

Jock itch is the fungus among us. Or at least the fungus among our genitals (sorry, “Incubus,” this album title is taken).

It can cause an itchy rash that might be painful. It’s more common in #TeamPeen, as moisture can get trapped between your thighs and scrotum.

You may have at a higher risk for jock itch if you:

• have obesity
• wear wet or tight clothing
• live in a wet or warm environment
• don’t dry your private parts after bathing
• contract athlete’s foot or a fungal infection of your nails

8. Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition that can cause scaly red or discolored rashes to pop up anywhere on your body. Sorry, that does also include your peen or hoo-ha.

Eczema can be hereditary, but the following may make it flare up:

• stress
• dry skin
• chemicals
• hella hot weather
• cold environments

9. Yeast infection

According to DermNet NZ, yeast infections are yucky to say the least. In addition to itching, you might experience:

• a red or discolored rash
• painful pee
• abnormal or smelly vaginal discharge

Candida — the yeast that causes the infection — thrives in moist, warm environments. Sub-par hygiene and wet or tight clothing can lead to a yeast infection.

We also looked at the risks of having sex when you’ve contracted a yeast infection.

10. Folliculitis

Infected hair follicles are common in your pubic area due to shaving, chafing, and friction, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. You can also contract it in pools or hot tubs that don’t have enough chlorine.

Folliculitis can cause tiny red or discolored bumps that itch like cray. The bumps can form whiteheads, so people often confuse it with acne.

11. Intertrigo

Jock itch is one type of intertrigo — but there are others.

This rash tends to affect places of your body where skin traps moisture or rubs together. Sadly, your nether regions are a prime locale for the bacteria or fungus that cause it.

Intertrigo is more common in folks who have obesity or diabetes, according to a 2014 research review. But anyone can contract it.

12. Extramammary Paget disease

This rare form of cancer can develop on your genitals or anus.

According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, it’s most common in people who’ve already experienced menopause. But it can develop in anyone.

A trademark symptom of extramammary Paget disease is skin lesions that burn or itch, according to Stanford Healthcare.

There are lots of ways you can cure your itchy trouser perm at home. Here’s the lowdown on how to soothe itching on your P or V.

1. Wear clean undies

Underwear can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

According to a 2010 study, unclean undies can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV) and other itchy infections.

So, be sure you wash your tighty-whities on the reg and replace them once a year.

2. Avoid scratching

Scratching can tear your skin and delay healing. In severe cases, it can also cause an infection.

So, as tempting as it is, don’t scratch.

3. Stay away from irritant chemicals

Steer clear from harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. Stick to high quality body washes, shampoos, and lotions that don’t have added fragrances or parabens.

P.S. Always avoid using hair removal products down there. It’s a one-way ticket to fire crotch. (Trust us.)

4. Shave safely

Poor shaving technique can cause a rough case of razor burn.

Following these tips may prevent your skin around your groin from misbe-shaving (not sorry):

• Never dry shave. It increases your risk of nicks and irritation.
• Exfoliate before you shave. It sloughs off dead skin cells and makes your razor work better.
• Choose high quality shaving cream. Soap doesn’t always lubricate the area well enough.
• Use cooler water. When your water is 🔥, it softens your skin. This increases your risk of cuts.
• Go with the grain. This might not give you the closest shave ever. But it’s easier on your skin.

You can try other methods of pubic hair removal that irritate your skin less — learn more here.

5. Keep it dry

Fungus and bacteria love warm, wet environments.

Ditch the polyester undies and choose cotton — it breathes better. You can also sleep commando, so your bits have time to air out (boy, is the Sand Man in for a treat).

6. Hydrocortisone cream

Anti-itch creams can soothe scratchy skin.

Try to find a brand that has at least 1 percent hydrocortisone which helps inhibit inflammatory response. You can purchase one-percent hydrocortisone products online.

7. Over-the-counter (OTC) lice medication

Lice meds can kill those pesky pests. But they can also make your skin flaky and dry. Be sure to get a genital-specific OTC medication if lice have invaded your pubes. (You suckers don’t pay rent! Get out!)

Pro tip: If you have head lice, rinse your hair out in the sink. This means that the medication won’t get all over the rest of your body.

8. Antihistamines

Antihistamines combat allergic reactions. They’re great for reducing inflammation, itchiness, and redness. You can purchase antihistamines online as topical creams or in oral form.

Your pubes may itch for a bunch of different reasons. These include unsafe shaving techniques, infections, and chronic conditions like psoriasis or eczema.

Sometimes, a home remedy, OTC cream, or simple lifestyle change can help you manage the itching.

But you should talk with your doctor if the itching doesn’t let up, or you suspect an underlying condition might be behind your symptoms.

There's nothing worse than your legs itching like crazy after shaving. As it turns out, it's a pretty common problem to have. "Shaving causes the hair follicles to become irritated, and after shaving, the hair follicles continue to grow under the skin, thus causing irritation, itchiness, or painful red bumps," says dermatologist Dr. Annie Gonzalez. "Shaving incorrectly, folliculitis, or razor burn can also cause the skin to itch after shaving."

Whether it's from dry skin, irritating skin products, or a dull razor, it's nothing a little extra time spent on your skincare routine can't fix.

Below, dermatologist provide a handful of tips for beating the itch, post-shave.

"Usually itchy skin from shaving is due to chemical or mechanical irritation, and occurs most often in those with more prominent follicles," says Dr. Jordan C. Carqueville, MD, the medical director at The Derm Institute of Chicago. "Those with a little extra skin that surrounds the entry point of the follicle will see buildup around the follicle, not over it. Shaving can be very irritating to those little skin 'mountains.' "

Carqueville says that, because this post-shave itch often affects those with sensitive skin, it should be treated accordingly. A high alcohol content in shaving gel or cream or aftershave may dry skin out, causing it to itch or feel tight. Fragrances and other ingredients may be irritating or cause an allergic reaction, ranging from mild to severe.

Choose products containing little to no alcohol if you can. Instead, look for moisturizing and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, natural oils, vitamin E, and glycerin.

Ursa Major Stellar Shave Cream $26.00

If fragrance tends to irritate your skin, opt for fragrance-free products or those with essential oils or natural fragrance. However, we can be allergic or sensitive to any ingredient, man-made or natural. And what causes a reaction for one person may not for another.

Instead of using aftershave to soothe and refresh post-shave, try using cool water (it's gentler). Finish your shower by switching to cold water or splash some on at the sink.

If you prefer an aftershave, choose one with ingredients that fight bacteria to help prevent pimples and ingrown hairs.

Remaining shaving cream or gel might cause redness, dryness, and itchiness post-shave. Be sure to rinse your skin thoroughly, making sure all traces of product are gone. After coming out of the shower or bath, pat skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing, which can cause further irritation. 

Deodorants and deodorant soaps are strong bacteria fighters, but they can really strip skin of natural oils and zap moisture. Moisturizing deodorant soaps with natural and essential oils help prevent odor without stripping your skin. Deodorants with cream bases tend to be gentler and provide some ingredients to hydrate and replenish over watery roll-on and spray deodorants, where alcohol is often the first ingredient.

Similarly, fragrant products can also cause irritation. "Use fragrance free products after shaving on the legs if your skin gets irritated from fragrance," advises Gonzalez. "You should also look for products that do not contain alcohol, as a high amount of alcohol in products may cause the skin to itch or feel dry. Also, always moisturize after shaving. If you do not moisturize after shaving, the skin will be dry, which often leads to itching."

Shaving exfoliates skin, and we really need to moisturize and protect it afterward. Dry skin often leads to itching. Using a couple drops of pre-shaving oil under shaving cream or gel not only provides moisture power, but helps create another barrier on the skin, allowing the razor to glide instead of tug. Finish off with a moisturizing aftershave lotion, oil, or balm.

Well-hydrated skin will not only feel smoother, it will look it, too. Without moisturizing, skin can become dry and flaky, again, leading to itchiness. 

Dr. Bronner's Organic Lavender Lotion for Hand & Body $10.00

Even between shaving, moisturizing can soften your skin. In areas with thicker hair, like the underarms or bikini zone, hair is more coarse and can poke you until the next shave. A daily dose of lotion or oil might help soften hair a bit, making it less prickly. Or, when you're in the shower, you can also use a little bit of conditioner to soften the hair. Just make sure to rinse it off. 

Hot water might feel good in the bath or shower, but it depletes skin moisture. Use warm water instead. Hot tubs, tanning beds, or a lot of direct sunlight can also cause itch and irritation to freshly-shaved skin. The high chlorine content in pools and hot tubs, along with the high temperatures, are not skin friendly. "Hot water while showering and shaving can reduce the skin’s moisture content, leading to dryness and irritation," says Gonzalez. "Shower with lukewarm water instead. You should avoid hot tubs and swimming pools after shaving, as chlorine can cause itchy, red skin."

Tanning, either by bed or beach, can cause nasty burns not to mention dry, itchy, flaky skin.

Exfoliating can help reduce the itch, as long as you plan ahead.

"At bed time, use a lotion or pads that contain a mild acidic component — lactic or salicylic acid — so that in the morning, if you shave it won’t sting as bad," says Carqueville. The acids, she explains, will reduce buildup around the pore so that when you shave, the irritation will be minimized.

"Do not wear tight-fitting clothes, as the friction of your shaven skin rubbing against clothes can irritate the skin," says Gonzalez.

As Gonzalez explains, hair provides some protection from chafing and rubbing. When it's gone, skin is more susceptible to chafing from clothes that rub against your skin. The friction created from hairless thighs rubbing together when wearing a skirt sans hose (especially when it's hot or humid) can also cause discomfort. 

And be sure to take note of whether the problem is getting worse, which Carqueville says could be indicative of a deeper problem. "Watch out for pustules or painful red bumps, as that can be a sign of bacterial infection," she says.

Aloe vera gel not only soothes skin, but it helps remove any stinging. Using gel directly from an aloe plant is the best way to go. If not, make sure the store-bought gel you use actually contains aloe vera and not just green coloring. We're partial to Sun Bum's Cool Down Hydrating After Sun Gel, $10.

Key Ingredients

Aloe vera is a naturally derived ingredient known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. The aloe plant's inner gel mucilage (the part that's used in skincare products) is made up of up to 99.5% water.

Another soothing ingredient? Hydrocortisone. Hydrocortisone cream is easy to pick up at the drugstore (see this version by Walgreens, $5) and works for most people quickly. It's hydrating, but it also contains medication to help stop any itching ASAP. 

Key Ingredients

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, a medicine that reduces inflammation. It's a common anti-inflammatory treatment for skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, and is available both over-the-counter and as a prescription.

If your legs or bikini zone are in desperate need of some moisture, opt for a nice soak in an oatmeal bath, which is sure to provide relief. There's a reason why babies with diaper rash and people with chicken pox soak in oatmeal baths. Don't let the fancy name confuse you: It's just ground up oatmeal. You can buy colloidal oatmeal at the store—like Aveeno's Soothing Bath Treatment, $9—or you can make it at home (as long as you follow a recipe).

Key Ingredients

Colloidal oatmeal is ground oatmeal, which is then placed in a liquid medium for better application.

FAQ

• What causes itchy skin, post-shave?

  Myriad things cause itchy skin, from hot water to drying (i.e. non-moisturizing) products. It can also be the result of something more serious, like keratosis pilaris.

• What's the easiest way to combat itchy skin after I shave?

  The best way is to avoid products that are too drying, and to moisturize your skin with a fragrance-free oil or lotion post-shave.

• Might itchy skin be indicative of a deeper problem?

  Itchy skin could be the sign of a drying product, but it could also be a sign of keratosis pilaris, which occurs when the skin produces excess keratin that blocks hair follicles