If your hygiene is compromised, you can feel itchy down there. Poor hygiene is not the only reason for itchy pubic hair. It may be due to other factors like razor burn or contact dermatitis, a type of eczema that causes skin inflammation when you touch a particular substance. Nature can offer some calming options. There are simple home remedies that can help get relief from itchy pubic hair. But before trying out some home remedies for itchy pubic hair, let’s take a look at possible causes of itchy pubic hair.

What are the causes of itchy pubic hair?

“Itchy pubic hair refers to an uncomfortable sensation in the pubic area that prompts the urge to scratch,” says gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Chetna Jain.

Apart from poor hygiene, here are some common causes of itchy pubic hair:

1. Razor burn

If you have recently shaved your pubic area, razor burn may be the reason for the itching. Razor burn appears as a red rash with tiny breakouts that may feel raw or sensitive.

2. Contact dermatitis

Just started using a new product that came into contact with your genital area? The itching could be due to contact dermatitis. Soaps, lotions, and other hygiene and skin care items can induce contact dermatitis or skin irritation.

3. Tinea cruris

Tinea cruris, often known as jock itch, is an infection of the genital, pubic, perineal, and perianal skin caused by a pathogenic fungus called dermatophytes, as per research published in StatPearls. Jock itch causes a rash that is extremely irritating and has a scaly dark pink or reddish border. It can also be extremely uncomfortable.

4. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a stubborn non-contagious autoimmune skin ailment characterised by thick, elevated areas of red skin with silvery scales. Patches can form anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly observed on the elbows and knees, according to a study published in the Clinical Medicine journal. The patches can be irritating, unpleasant, and even crack and bleed.

5. Eczema

Atopic dermatitis is the most prevalent kind of eczema. It is distinguished by scaly red rashes that might develop lumps and leak fluid when scratched, as per research published in StatPearls. Eczema typically appears in the creases of the elbows or knees, but it can also affect the male and female genitalia.

6. Yeast infection

Candidiasis, often known as yeast infection, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called candida. Candida fungi flourish in warm, moist environments, which is why they are usually found in skin folds and the vaginal region. Wearing tight clothing, practicing poor hygiene, and failing to properly dry after showering all raise your risk.

Symptoms of itchy pubic hair

Here are some common signs of itchy pubic you can’t miss:

• Persistent itching: A continuous urge to scratch the pubic area.
• Redness: The skin in the pubic area may appear red or inflamed.
• Rash: Small red bumps or a rash may develop in the affected area.
• Bumps or blisters: Raised bumps, pimples, or even blisters may form, potentially filled with fluid.
• Dry or flaky skin: The skin may become dry, flaky, or scaly.
• Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling in the pubic region can occur.
• Pain or discomfort: The area may become tender or sore, especially after scratching.
• Burning sensation: A burning feeling might accompany the itching, particularly if the skin is irritated or broken.
• Crusting or oozing: In cases of infection or severe irritation, the skin may ooze clear or yellowish fluid and form crusts.
• Hair loss: Excessive scratching or infection can lead to temporary hair loss in the affected area.

Home remedies for itchy pubic hair

Here are some effective home remedies to get relief from itchy pubic hair –

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve itching and irritation, as per a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology. It also helps moisturise the skin as it is rich in amino acids.

How to use:

• Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
• Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Gently wash it off with running water.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has nutritional and medicinal properties that moisturises the skin and have antimicrobial properties that can prevent infections, as per a study published in Heliyon. It helps to soothe skin from itching and irritation.

How to use:

• Apply virgin coconut oil to the itchy area.
• Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Gently wash it off with running water.

3. Greek yogurt

Greek yogurt is a popular home remedy for yeast infections which causes itchy pubic hair. A probiotic yogurt supports the development of good bacteria in the vagina. These bacteria can kill yeast while keeping your vagina healthy. A study published in the Archives of Gynaecology and Obstetrics found the honey and yogurt combination to be more efficient at treating vaginal yeast infections than over-the-counter antifungal medications.

4. Baking soda bath

Baking soda baths may help treat yeast infections and itchy skin disorders. As per a study published in Mycopathologia, baking soda has antifungal effects. Another study published in the Current Microbiology indicated that baking soda could kill Candida cells, which cause yeast infections.

How to use:

Add 1/4 cup baking soda to your bath, or make a paste and apply it to your skin to treat itchy skin.

5. Cold compress

“A cold compress can numb the area and reduce inflammation and itching,” says Dr Jain.

How to use:

Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the itchy area for 10 to 15 minutes.

Before attempting any home remedies, particularly those requiring insertion into the vagina, it is important to contact a healthcare expert. Certain remedies may cause discomfort or allergic responses. If you encounter any harmful effects, discontinue usage. Also, home remedies can help with symptoms, but they are not a substitute for medical therapy for itchy pubic hair.