The bush is back! The return of a fuller look down there

At the John Galliano for Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2024 haute couture show earlier this year, models were wearing sheer lace and tulle dresses with merkins underneath. Mer-whats?

A merkin is a toupée for the pubic area and is made from real human hair carefully embroidered onto silk tulle (for more detail go to @fashionfaguette). In this particular show, they masqueraded pretty convincingly as exposed pubic hair.

The John Galliano for Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2024 haute couture show that featured sheer dresses with merkins underneath.Credit: snapperimages.com

As with the hair on our heads, trends in pubic hair fashion change and those who embraced full laser hair removal might now have to adopt their own merkin if they are stretching for a fashion moment.

According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, hair-removal lasers “emit a low-energy beam of light that penetrates the skin. This energy is then absorbed by the melanin responsible for the pigmentation of the hair, heating the follicle and essentially destroying its structure.” In other words, the procedure sends hair follicles into a prolonged state of dormancy, and while those who’ve gone the full laser Brazilian will eventually experience some regrowth, it won’t have its original vigour.

For those who have gone down the non-permanent hair removal path, i.e. waxing or shaving, there are more options, not to mention good reasons for growing pubic hair – it helps protect against bacteria, traps the pheromones that make us more attractive to prospective sexual partners, and acts as a buffer that reduces friction during sex.

To get started, just grow the hair out and treat any stubborn ingrown hairs with Tend Skin ($38). The majority of hair follicles will be at different points in their growth phase, so the regrowth might look a bit patchy initially. To hasten the process, vitamin products such as Viviscal ($77) help to encourage hair growth. Just remember that they work on hair everywhere!

For day-to-day care of pubic hair, condition it with natural oils, such as coconut oil, to soften the hair and moisturise the skin beneath. And remember, going au naturel doesn’t mean you have to go completely wild (of course, if that’s your preference, go forth!) with many woman-scaping options available. You can trim your hair shorter with dedicated clippers; just make sure the pubic area is clean, exfoliated and dry to help reduce ingrown hairs.

Returning to the full bush may also mean having to groom your bikini line – if that’s your style. Do this by holding the skin taut with one hand while trimming with the other. Try Philips Bikini Genie Bikini Trimmer ($94) or head to your favourite waxer for the shape your heart desires.

ASK STEPH

What is the best way to apply false lashes?

To give lashes an instant boost, apply single falsies to the outer edges of your real lashes. Pick a set that with a range of lengths, so you can experiment with the finish you want, then apply mascara to your natural lashes to help them blend with the falsies. Try Ardell Naked Extensions ($25).

Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.

Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday.