Armpit hair, also referred to as axillary hair, starts to develop during puberty as the pituitary gland triggers androgens in the ovaries and testicles, activating the apocrine sweat glands that associate with hair follicles in the armpit area.
From infancy to adulthood, hair undergoes several transformations. Lanugo hair in babies gives way to vellus hair in childhood, often called “peach fuzz” for its short, thin, lightly colored appearance. At puberty, vellus hair becomes terminal hair-thicker, stronger, and darker-shaped by androgen sensitivity that influences where terminal hair grows on the body, including armpits.
What armpit hair does for the body
Armpit hair plays a role in pheromone production, helping trap odor from sweat and potentially aiding sexual attraction. A 2018 study with 96 heterosexual couples found stress-relief benefits to smelling a partner’s natural scent, suggesting an alluring effect of the body’s natural musk. Armpit hair also reduces friction by preventing skin-to-skin contact during activities like running and walking, mirroring the role of pubic hair in reducing friction during sexual activity.
Benefits of keeping armpit hair
Not shaving armpit hair can help trap odor in the hair, potentially strengthening pheromone effects. It may also reduce friction during physical activity and may contribute to more natural body odor dynamics that some people find preferable.
Benefits of shaving or removing armpit hair
Shaving can reduce armpit sweating for some people because hair can hold onto moisture. It can also make odor more accessible to soaps and cleansing products by exposing skin to regimen products. A 2016 study in men showed that removing underarm hair by shaving significantly reduced axillary odor within 24 hours, with earlier research reporting similar findings.
Health considerations and reasons armpit hair might not grow
If armpit hair doesn’t grow, this may be due to genetics or health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, or abnormalities in the thyroid or pituitary gland. Laser hair removal can suppress regrowth for 6-12 months after a full treatment course. Waxing and shaving do not permanently stop growth, though repeated waxing can weaken some follicles over time.
Growth cycle and how to wax effectively
Hair grows in three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Underarm hair shows the most visible growth during the anagen phase, but cycles vary by person. For best waxing results, wait until underarm hair is about 1/4 inch long, use hard wax for sensitive skin, and pull the wax off quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth while keeping the skin taut. High-quality products can make a difference in comfort and results.
How to sugar your underarms from home ☼ hand mold and flick technique
Practical tips for growing out or maintaining armpit hair
- Patience is vital; growing out body hair takes time and differs between individuals. Give yourself weeks to months to see full growth.
- Practice good hygiene: wash regularly with a gentle cleanser to keep hair and skin fresh and manage odor.
- Keep hair hydrated with a nourishing moisturizer or oil to prevent dryness and itchiness.
- Exfoliate gently to prevent ingrown hairs and support healthy skin as hair grows.
- Embrace your natural rhythm and avoid comparing yourself to others; genetics largely determine hair density and growth rate.
- Confidence matters: cultivate a mindset that supports your personal choice about armpit hair, whether natural, trimmed, dyed, or shaved.
If your goal is to reduce underarm hair long-term, options include laser hair removal or electrolysis, though these procedures require professional treatment and multiple sessions. If you simply want to experiment with growth, enjoy the journey and respect your body’s signals. Changes in body hair are common, and most slow or stabilize without medical concern. In cases of sudden, patchy hair loss or accompanying symptoms such as fatigue or irregular periods, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
In the broader context of puberty and body hair, armpit hair typically emerges during adolescence, influenced by hormonal activity and genetics. The Wolfsdorf Axillary Hair Staging system provides a standardized method for assessing pubertal progression and androgenic activity in pediatric populations, underscoring that armpit hair presence is a natural part of development.
Overall, armpit hair serves multiple functions-from pheromone dynamics and friction reduction to personal choice in grooming. Whether you keep, trim, shave, or dye, your approach should reflect your comfort, aesthetic preferences, and health considerations.
How to sugar your underarms from home ☼ hand mold and flick technique
Notes on growing out armpit hair for personal expression
If you’re curious about dying or styling armpit hair, remember that personal expression is a valid aspect of body autonomy. The journey can involve self-acceptance, experimentation, and community support, celebrating diverse choices and comfort levels with body hair.