Why We Shave: The Surprising Evolutionary Truth About Body Hair

Jan de Vries · 2026-10-20

Ever wonder why we're the only primates who bother with razors and wax? Professor Tim Coulson, an evolutionary biologist, has spent years digging into this very question. And his findings might make you look at your grooming routine a little differently. ### The Hairless Ape Humans are weird. Compared to our primate cousins, we're practically naked. Sure, we have hair on our heads, armpits, and other spots, but overall, we're the odd ones out. Coulson points out that this lack of fur is a big deal in our evolutionary story. It likely helped our ancestors stay cool while running long distances under the hot sun. But if less hair was an advantage, why do we spend so much time and money removing what's left? ### Culture, Not Just Biology The answer, Coulson suggests, lies more in culture than in biology. Our relationship with body hair is complicated. In many societies, body hair on women is seen as unfeminine or unhygienic, while on men it can be a symbol of masculinity. These norms shift over time and across cultures. For instance, in some parts of the world, body hair is celebrated, while in others, it's meticulously removed. > "We're not just removing hair; we're removing what we think it says about us," Coulson notes. ### The Anxiety Factor Why the anxiety? Coulson argues that body hair is a visible marker of our animal nature. By removing it, we distance ourselves from our primal past. It's a way of signaling that we're civilized, clean, and in control. But there's also a practical side: removing hair can reduce body odor and make us feel more comfortable in social situations. ### What Does the Future Hold? As grooming habits evolve, so does our relationship with body hair. The rise of body positivity movements and changing beauty standards are challenging traditional norms. More people are embracing their natural hair, while others still prefer a smooth finish. Coulson believes that ultimately, the choice is personal—but understanding the evolutionary and cultural forces at play can help us make more informed decisions. So next time you pick up a razor, remember: you're not just shaving; you're participating in a millennia-old conversation about what it means to be human.