A Gradual Rebellion
Recent years have seen an increasing trend in women’s restrooms across America, and it does not involve red lipstick. The razor blade hum is getting quieter. A rising number of Gen Z women—those born between 1997 and 2012—have been rejecting hair removal entirely. For these women, it’s not about avoiding a step in their beauty routine—it’s about reclaiming choice, rejecting old beauty ideologies, and feeling empowered through natural self-expression.
What was once perceived as an unchangeable hygienic hygiene practice is now being reframed as a personal preference, not a societal obligation.
The Rise of Natural Body Hair: What is Causing This Movement?
1. Shaving Feels Like a Chore
If you ask anyone in Gen Z, they might say: Shaving is not self-care—it is a chore. From skin irritation to razor bumps, not to mention taking time out of her day to do it, the outcome often does not match the effort.
2. Reframing Beauty Standards
Unlike other generations that grew up with blasted models and razor consumption as the beauty standard, Gen Z grew up with body positivity movements and unedited social media influencers. They are fighting the belief that smooth skin is beautiful.
3. Mental Health and Empowerment
Numerous women have shared their experiences where they have felt freer and a better sense of control upon quitting shaving. For some, this is part of a recovery process from body dysmorphia and the pressure to always be “perfect” rather than embrace their natural self.
The Role of Pop Culture and Social Media
It is impossible to interpret how female creators on social media like TikTok or Instagram behave without their content. The creators who strictly embrace their body hair sometimes explain to their millions of followers why they do so.
Celebrities like Lourdes Leon (Madonna’s daughter) posting a picture of her unshaven armpits, influencers doing viral “body hair reveal” videos, getting on mainstream media, are affecting how society sees this.
How to go No Shave (If You Want To)
Now that you are ready to quit shaving, this is how you do it, and do it with confidence.
How to Go No Shave Step by Step
1) Take your time – Simply allow the hair to grow out and see how it feels.
2) Always moisturize – Healthy, moisturized skin will look good with or without hair.
3) Switch to natural deodorants – This should help lessen odor if you regularly don’t irritate your armpits.
4) Don’t mind the looks – If you can ignore the looks, it just means that you will more than likely draw their attention and have them follow your lead.
5) Discover online community – Seek communities like r/BodyHair on Reddit or body-positive creators on TikTok.
Conclusion: Hair Today, Hair Tomorrow
Gen Z women are doing what many generations before them couldn’t do, they are unapologetically owning their bodies! They shave when they want and don’t shave when they don’t want to. They are making those decisions based on their own choices — not a vintage beauty advertisement or a societal expectation.
FAQs
1. Why are Gen Z women choosing not to shave?
They see it as a choice and not an obligation. For them, it’s about comfort, self-expression, and rejecting dated beauty standards.
2. Is not shaving dirty?
No. Body hair does not make someone dirty. In fact, body hair serves natural protective functions for our skin.
3. How can I feel more confident if I stop shaving?
Surround yourself with supportive voices – both online and offline — and focus on the things that make you feel good instead of worrying about what society expects.
4. Are there any side effects of not shaving?
Not usually. Just keep the skin clean and moisturized. Some folks may need to swap out products to adjust.
5. Do men support this movement?
Support varies, but in the end it doesn’t matter what they think about what you are doing for your body.
