Why Do Men Like The Brazilian? Science! (2024)

Jeb isn’t the only unpopular bush these days.

A new survey of over 5,000 people conducted by AskMen and The Huffington Post found that 41 percent of their predominantly male respondents prefer women to have no pubic hair whatsoever. Thirty-eight percent find pubic hair acceptable so long as it is “trimmed,” 15 percent have no preference, and only five percent prefer an au naturale mons pubis.

Every year, one style site or another will prematurely cry, “The bush is back.”

But the bush is not back. The menfolk have spoken and they prefer their lawns mowed. Of course, as The Huffington Post rightly put it, women don’t necessarily “give a damn what men think” when it comes to personal grooming. But is there any explanation for men’s love of the Brazilian beyond the proliferation of hairless bodies in online p*rnography?

Dr. Christopher Burris, a psychology professor at St. Jerome's University in the University of Waterloo, suspects that men may associate untrimmed pubic hair with infertility, further reinforcing cultural expectations that women trim or wax their pubic hair.

In a new study published in the Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, Burris and co-author Armand Munteanu asked a small sample of 63 Canadian undergraduates to rate seven schematic drawings of pubic hair ranging from completely waxed to landing strip to full-on 70s bush, to use the proper scientific terminology.

The subjects also completed a questionnaire about the importance of sterility and fertility for themselves and their prospective female partners.

Burris was not surprised to discover that the men were most aroused by the hairless and neatly-trimmed drawings given prevailing p*rnographic pubic hairstyles. But he also uncovered an intriguing correlation between the size of the, ahem, “pubic expanse” and men’s relative comfort with the infertility of a female partner.

“Even though our men rated more profuse public expanses as not very arousing in an absolute sense, there was variability,” Burris tells The Daily Beast. “Men who were more okay with the prospect of being in a relationship with an infertile female partner were more aroused by the three most profuse pubic expanses.”

In layman’s terms, men who didn’t care about female fertility liked bigger bushes. But why would these two seemingly random variables be connected?

For women, dramatically increased testosterone levels are associated with both fertility problems and an excess of body hair. At its most extreme, increased testosterone is associated with hirsutism in women or the appearance of body hair in a typically male pattern on the chest, legs, and face.

Based on this link between testosterone, body hair, and infertility, Burris believes that there may be “some sort of connection in men’s brains between more profuse female pubic hair and decreased female fertility, or vice versa.”

The expanded logic: Men associate less pubic hair on a female partner with greater fertility leading to increased arousal and they associate more pubic hair with testosterone, infertility and, therefore, lack of arousal.

Although the most unkempt pubic hair in the study’s set of drawings was still tidier and less expansive than the sort of excessive hair growth that accompanies a true clinical condition, it may still carry associations of infertility for men making the momentary judgments that lead to arousal.

“Just like in hand grenades and horseshoes, ‘Close enough,’ seems to count,” explains Burris.

The results of this study fall in line with decades worth of research on the intersection of perceived female attractiveness, waist-to-hip ratio, and fertility—an area of inquiry first opened up the famous evolutionary psychologist Devendra Singh in 1973. Singh suspected that the appeal of the “hourglass figure” could be explained via its associations with fertility.

If Burris’ results can be replicated with larger samples, it’s possible that the rise of bikini waxing is at least partially attributable to that same evolutionary logic.

But although Burris tells The Daily Beast that the connection between minimal pubic hair and increased attractiveness “makes sense” from a “gene-survival-via reproduction standpoint,” he cautions that it cannot account for individual patterns of arousal.

In other words, men are not necessarily evolution-obsessed automatons programmed to shut down at the mere sight of pubic hair.

“Our research documents statistical trends,” says Burris. “So if somebody says, ‘I want kids and I like a big bush,’ we can just shrug because statistically-based research seldom captures an individual’s experience exactly.”

Burris also warns that his sample size is small and culturally specific but he nonetheless maintains that the study is an important precedent for future research. As he and Munteanu write in the article, theirs is “the first [study] to offer empirical evidence” for the statistical correlation between men’s positive response to pubic hair and their relative indifference toward female infertility.

But as fascinating as the evolutionary interpretation may be, Burris notes that the bare look is so overwhelmingly popular that its rise can only be explained in conjunction with cultural factors like online p*rnography consumption.

In contrast to the unshaved starlets of the “golden age” of 1970s p*rn, the vast majority of present-day performers have neatly-trimmed pubic hair or none whatsoever. The waxed style is so pervasive that some mainstream p*rn sites have cordoned off special categories for “bush,” “classic,” or “vintage” p*rn, designed to appeal to those men who still have a soft spot for some shag carpet.

The dominance of the waxed look in p*rnography is one obvious cultural explanation for its heightened demand among young men.

“Perhaps fertility cues get some trends going but cultural factors subsequently kick in and broaden or shape the impact,” says Burris.

As for the men who responded to the AskMen/HuffPo poll, many of them claim a more altruistic motive for their Brazilian obsession: cunniling*s. “A huge number of men were quick to point out that they really, really, really don’t like going down on women who have loads of pubic hair,” the AskMen editors reported.

It’s certainly the simplest and most pleasant explanation, although one that carries with it a particular burden of proof.

The good news for women: the poll found that only about 9 percent of respondents had ever ended a date early or backed out of sex because they wandered into an overgrown lady garden. So whether it’s evolution, p*rnography, or sexual generosity that leads men to crave a bare bikini area, women may not have to humor that desire in order stay sexually active.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter whether your carpet is as elegant as the drapes in your house. Most men are just happy to be home.

Why Do Men Like The Brazilian? Science! (2024)

FAQs

Why do guys like Brazilian wax? ›

One of the best benefits of waxing is that your skin will feel smoother, and look brighter. Because the scrotum area is a naturally warm part of the body, pubic hair removal makes men feel cleaner. All of which will give you a boost of confidence in the way your look and feel inside and out.

Do guys prefer Brazilian or natural? ›

The Results Are In: For Men, The 'Brazilian' Is Still The Favorite. Just the bare facts: it turns out that when it comes to guys' preferences for women's pubic hair, less really is more.

Do men prefer Hollywood or Brazilian wax? ›

17 per cent plumped for the Brazilian, a landing strip of pubic hair, while 15 per cent liked the heart shaped 'Heart Breaker'. Just 12 per cent chose the full Hollywood, with most men saying they preferred their women to have some hair 'down there'.

Is Brazilian good for men? ›

Getting a Brazilian wax is completely safe for men, provided that you go to a hygienic and professional waxing salon. Also, you should make sure that your private area is freshly clean and dry.

Do men like a full bush? ›

A new survey of over 5,000 people conducted by AskMen and The Huffington Post found that 41 percent of their predominantly male respondents prefer women to have no pubic hair whatsoever.

Are Brazilian men touchy? ›

Physical Contact: Brazilians tend to be quite tactile people. The touching of arms and backs is a common and widely accepted practice. Generally, public displays of affection such as holding hands and kissing are acceptable. Personal Space: During a conversation, Brazilians tend to stand very close to one another.

What happens when a man gets a Brazilian? ›

A standard Male Brazilian includes the frontal pubic area (the mound), about 2 inches where the upper thigh meets the pubic area; the shaft, scrotum and inside the glutes. It is optional to leave a landing strip (patch of hair) above the shaft, which is referred to as the male Hollywood wax.

Do most men shave pubic hair? ›

Stats show that men are split right down the middle when it comes to pube grooming, so it's really all about personal preference. Some men go completely pube-less, while others just keep it trimmed. Some men don't pay any attention to it beyond keeping it clean — and either way, it's totally okay!

How long does a Brazilian last for men? ›

A fully executed male Brazilian also includes removing all hair from the scrotum, perineum, and anal region. The results typically last for about four to six weeks, so that gives you an idea of what your return on investment is.

Do men like fully waxed? ›

It's extremely, extremely soft, so it feels great when you have sex. I also think it looks sexy--all neat and clean, like you want to have sex and got ready to go for it, as if you're wearing lingerie. But, really, for me, it's more about the feel.

How much pubic hair is normal for a woman? ›

According to board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Felice Gersh, MD, there is a “basic normal amount” of female pubic hair. She explains, "Typically it should cover all of the labia majora to the inner surface of the thighs and up to the pubic bone-roughly shaped like a triangle."

Why would a woman get a Brazilian wax? ›

Long lasting: Wax pulls hair out from the root, so you'll stay smooth for longer than you would with a razor. Eventually, the hair grows back — but a Brazilian wax can keep you hair-free for three or four weeks.

How long does a Brazilian actually last? ›

After a client's first waxing, the results can last 3 to 6 weeks depending on the individual's hair re-growth rate. In most cases, hair growth is minimal during the first week or two and noticeably increases in the third and fourth week.

Are Brazilian men monogamous? ›

Perhaps in contrast to the popular image of the sexually adventurous and freewheeling Brazilian male, the most typical (58%) pat- tern was monogamy, 19% reported being in a steady relationship, but also having sex with one or more other women, and 21% reported not being in a sexual relationship.

What are the benefits of having a Brazilian? ›

A Brazilian wax exfoliates your skin's most sensitive and intimate area and removes dead, dry skin cells. Brazilian waxing also removes damaged skin cells allowing healthy new skin tissue to grow and also eliminates dirt and debris found in clogged pores in the lower body, reducing acne breakouts in the pubic area.

Do most girls shave down there? ›

Pubic hair removal is common — approximately 80 percent of women ages 18 to 65 report they remove some or all of their pubic hair.

What body size are men most attracted to? ›

According to a new study published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, women with a 'low waist-to-hip ratio (WHRs)' – commonly known as an 'hourglass figure' – are seen to have the most attractive bodies.

What is most attractive to guys? ›

Men prefer a woman who can stay calm and relaxed. Beauty is more than make-up and a fancy haircut. Men find women more attractive when they are neat and clean. Men find women who smell nice, who have clean hair and hydrated skin more attractive than a face perfectly covered in makeup.

What do Brazilians find rude? ›

Burping and making noise with plates and cutlery is considered to be poor etiquette. Brazilians tend to finish all the food they put on their plate. Taking more food than one can eat and leaving unfinished food on one's plate is considered impolite, suggesting that the person did not enjoy the food.

What are Brazilian dating habits? ›

Brazilians are, on the whole, incredibly friendly people and prefer to keep options open rather than saying 'no'. Even if you really click with your date and the feelings are intense, the laid-back Brazilian approach means that things may take some time to develop.

What is the mentality of Brazilian? ›

Brazilians tend to live in the moment and not worry about the future. While they may have plans and goals, everything is centered on the present and there is no point stressing about something that is yet to happen.

How long after a Brazilian can you be intimate? ›

Medical experts recommend waiting for 24-48 hours after any type of bikini wax. This time period is when your body can be most susceptible to outside bacteria, which can potentially cause an infection.

Do you have to be hard for a Brazilian? ›

Most people agree that for a Brazilian wax, hard wax is the best option. If your hair is coarse, multiple applications will be necessary, and hard wax allows for this. Additionally, because this area of your body is so sensitive, hard wax removal tends to be less painful.

What is the current trend for male pubic hair? ›

Male pubic hair is currently less "full bush" and more "clean-cut," which is the current trend. As a result, not all men should completely shave off their pubic hair because doing so can cause excruciating discomfort and even unpleasant skin conditions like razor burn or ingrown hairs.

What percent of females shave their pubic hair? ›

Pubic Hair Trends

According to the researchers, when asked if they removed their pubic hair, 80% of women and 39% of men removed their pubic hair near the time of the survey. Also, 3% of women and 21% of men had never removed their pubic hair.

What happens if you never shave your pubic hair female? ›

You're Less Likely To Get Rashes

If you don't shave, those things aren't really a possibility anymore, leaving you and your lady parts in peace. Indeed, Dweck listed infected hair follicles (folliculitis), rashes, and irritation (razor burn) as some of the most common issues she sees from patients who shave.

Does a Brazilian get easier? ›

We're often asked is if waxing will get easier over time. The good news is, it will! But you need to ensure you keep up with your waxing routine. Regularly book in for treatments every 4 – 6 weeks depending on your hair growth cycle.

What does it feel like after a Brazilian? ›

Initially, you may experience inflammation and redness in the area. Some, but not all, clients will experience red bumps (which will go away in a day or two). It has been my experience that clients with coarser, thicker hair seem to require more recovery time after a Brazilian wax.

What is the most painful part of a Brazilian wax? ›

"Patients tell me that the most painful areas for waxing are also the most overall sensitive areas, especially in the pubic area," Ciraldo says. Hair around the genitals and bikini line tends to be thicker than on other areas of the body, requiring more force to yank it and, thus, causing more pain.

Do guys care if you wax down there? ›

As it turns out, a lot of men see grooming down there as an intimate little treat—they don't just think you've waxed, they think you've waxed for them. Which is egocentric and cute, all at the same time.

Is getting waxed embarrassing? ›

It's understandable that there will be a little embarrassment, especially for a first-timer as you may feel slightly uncomfortable being so exposed. Rest assured, our therapists have seen it all and, like a doctor or nurse, it's their job.

Does pubic hair fall out with age? ›

As you age, your pubic hair, just like the hair on your head, will naturally start to thin and turn grey. Part of the aging process includes hair loss and the slowing of the rate of hair growth.

What is the most popular female grooming? ›

Shaving was the most popular—with half of women going totally bald to feel clean, comfortable, and sexy.

When should a girl start shaving down there? ›

There's no set time for girls to begin shaving. You can start shaving when you feel you have enough hair growth on your legs and/or armpits to shave it off.

Do you wear anything during a Brazilian wax? ›

You will not have to get completely naked for a Brazilian wax. Of course, any clothing from the waist down will have to be removed, but anything from the waist up can stay on. One thing to suggest to your clients is adequate clothing to wear for their Brazilian wax.

What does a Brazilian look like on a woman? ›

Unlike the French version, when you go Brazilian they take the hair off the top and sides of the bikini line, but also all the way under and around the back, too. (Yep, that means around your bum). If you want to feel totally smooth and hairless, go Brazilian.

What is a Brazilian trim? ›

With a Brazilian, all pubic hair is stripped from your vulva and your mons pubis — the pad of flesh directly above your genitals. You also remove any pubic hairs that grow on your thighs or up toward your belly button.

Does Brazilian wax cause sagging? ›

While its natural to feel that the constant pulling that takes place during a wax session could add to these causes, the truth is that waxing does not make your skin saggy.

How long after a Brazilian can you shower? ›

It's perfectly fine to take a cool or warm shower after your wax, however, I recommend waiting at least 5-8 hours for the skin to recover. Avoid hot showers or steam rooms after your wax. Hair follicles remain open for hours after waxing, so it's best to avoid contact with any excess moisture for at least 24 hours.

How many times can you get a Brazilian? ›

Bikini area

"For a bikini wax, those who frequent the beach benefit from waxing their bikini line every two weeks. But for a full bikini or Brazilian bikini service, you're recommended to come in every three to four weeks. This allows the proper amount of time for regrowth," Coba says.

Do Brazilians like to kiss? ›

The Kiss as a Greeting

Not only do Brazilians kiss as a way of saying, “hello,” they do it in a very specific way. The number of kisses and where they are placed can change depending on where you are in the country.

Do Brazilians kiss when they meet? ›

Brazilians will often greet with a kiss or a hug, and both men and women will frequently touch you when speaking, either patting your shoulder or placing their hand on your hand or arm to make a point.

What is the most common Brazilian last name? ›

If you ask any Brazilian what the most common last name in Brazil is, for sure the answer will be “Silva.” Silva, which in Latin means “forest” or “jungle,”was brought by the Portuguese during the colonization of Brazil.

What should I avoid after a Brazilian? ›

Chill-Out: Because the newly waxed area is more sensitive and more susceptible to invading bacteria, it's best to avoid heat, sweat, and friction after your wax. For at least 24 hours, you'll want to avoid saunas, tanning beds, and even the gym.

What not to do when getting a Brazilian? ›

Don'ts For Brazilian Wax
  1. Swim, tan, or workout for 24 hours after waxing.
  2. Use products that contain alcohol on the waxed area.
  3. Shave between waxes because that distorts the hair growth cycle.
  4. Apply lotion right before the waxing treatment.
  5. Trim hair too short (hair length should be 1/4-inch).

Does a Brazilian hurt the first time? ›

Some feel slight pain, some feel none. But the pain will never be completely unbearable and the discomfort is it's worth it and that it gets better with each session. If you're feeling uneasy, just speak with your wax pro before your appointment and she will provide you with a complete education on the process.

Do guys like it when you get a Brazilian wax? ›

They find it ultra-hot when you go hairless for their pleasure. Whether you got waxed to give your S.O. a sexy surprise or just to make sure no stray hairs peek out from your bikini while you're in Bora, it's a welcome sight in the sack, which Poks, 31, says “makes me want to get a test drive as soon as possible.”

What do guys think about Brazilian wax? ›

48% of the men pulled reported that they preferred women's hair natural with what the article called a “Bermuda triangle”(this is trimmed hair and waxed sides). 17% said they like “a landing strip”, 15% preferred a heart-shaped, and only 12% reported that they preferred a full-on Brazilian(no hair at all).

Do guys like fully waxed? ›

It's extremely, extremely soft, so it feels great when you have sex. I also think it looks sexy--all neat and clean, like you want to have sex and got ready to go for it, as if you're wearing lingerie. But, really, for me, it's more about the feel.

Do men like it shaved down there? ›

Data showed that 46% of men prefer when their partners go completely bare down there. 70% of women, on the other hand, only expect a trim to keep things neat, not total removal. And while that might not surprise many people, just how adamant guys are about their preferences may be the most shocking data point.

Is waxing your vag better than shaving? ›

Since waxing pulls hairs from the root, in the long run waxing lasts much longer than other hair removal methods- including hair removal creams and shaving. Verdict: Waxing is the clear winner here- definitely go for waxing if you hate the idea of shaving every few days.

What is a Brazilian wax and is it embarrassing? ›

While bikini waxes remove the hair around the sides and tops of where your bottom bikini would lie, a full Brazilian wax takes off all the hair from there, your labia, and your pubic bone - basically everything up, down, and around!

Does Brazilian wax mean everything? ›

Unlike the bikini wax, where hair is removed only from the top and sides of the bikini line, the full Brazilian wax removes hair from EVERYWHERE. That's the front, back, sides, and everything in between. Yep, that includes the hair between the buttocks too!

How long does a Brazilian wax last? ›

After a client's first waxing, the results can last 3 to 6 weeks depending on the individual's hair re-growth rate. In most cases, hair growth is minimal during the first week or two and noticeably increases in the third and fourth week.

Do men mind pubic hair? ›

Interestingly, 84 percent of the men surveyed had a preference when it came to a woman's pubic hair, but only 9 percent would end a date or sex because of a women's grooming habits -- so they must not care all that much. And of the men polled, a whopping 88 percent do some grooming of their own.

Do dancers shave down there? ›

And also, it's hairless. As with swimmers, athletes, gymnasts and others who wear leotards for a living, constant depilation is part of the job. That goes for men as well as women. “I choose to shave because it gives me a sense of readiness,” says dancer and choreographer Eliot Smith.

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