Why Japanese Men Care About Their Body Hair

Japanese men's appearance (Image by Freepik)

The general view of Japanese men is often associated with a clean and tidy image. However, behind that well-groomed image, there are various approaches and perceptions of Japanese men towards their body hair. Contrary to the common perception that may be embedded in our minds, concern for body hair among Japanese men is actually quite complex and diverse, influenced by cultural factors, age, fashion trends, and personal preferences.

Facial Hair: From Thin Mustache to Full Beard

Facial hair, especially moustaches and beards, is one of the most visible and frequently discussed aspects of a man’s appearance. In the past, thin moustaches and well-groomed beards, even those that were barely visible, were more common. This was influenced by traditional Japanese beauty standards that tended to emphasize a clean and tidy appearance. The image of a samurai with a thin moustache and a clean face is probably still firmly embedded in many people’s minds.

However, as time passes and Japan opens up to global culture, facial hair trends change. Today, we see more and more Japanese men growing their beards thicker and longer, experimenting with different styles, from neat, well-groomed beards to fuller, wilder beards. Age also plays a role; older men tend to be more comfortable with a fuller beard, while younger men may prefer a more manicured, minimalist style.

It is important to note that “groomed” here has a broad meaning. It does not necessarily mean being neatly shaved, but rather emphasizing cleanliness and neatness. The use of beard oils, beard balms, and beard combs is increasingly popular, reflecting the effort to care for and style the beard so that it looks neat and well-groomed, even if it is long and thick.

Illustration of a man tidying his hair

Chest and Body Hair: Between Covered and Open

Unlike facial hair, which is more visible and easily modified, chest and body hair tends to be more personal and influenced by personal preference. There is no set standard for how Japanese men should treat hair in these areas. Some men choose to shave their chest and body hair clean, while others let it grow naturally.

Cultural factors and fashion trends also play a role. While there is still a tendency for a clean and neat appearance, the influence of Western cultures that are more open to body hair is gradually changing perceptions. Certain sports, for example, may encourage men to shave their chest hair to avoid friction, while a more relaxed lifestyle may allow them to let their body hair grow naturally.

However, it is important to note that even as trends change, the widespread use of saunas and onsen (hot springs) in Japan remains an important factor. In such environments, too much body hair can be considered unhygienic by some. Therefore, many Japanese men still choose to keep their body hair clean and tidy, even if they do not always shave it all off.

Body Hair Care: Products and Methods

The men's grooming industry in Japan has grown rapidly, offering a variety of products and methods for treating body hair. In addition to traditional razors, many other options are available, including electric shavers, shaving creams, and even hair removal devices such as waxing.

Beard care products, such as beard oils, beard balms, and beard combs, are gaining popularity, reflecting the growing awareness of the importance of facial hair care. These products not only help keep your beard clean and tidy, but they can also soften and nourish the skin underneath.

The use of other hair removal tools, such as depilatory creams, is also increasing, offering a more comfortable and less painful alternative to shaving or waxing. However, the choice of body hair care methods and products still depends on personal preference and comfort level of each individual.

Media Influence and Current Trends

Mass media, including men's magazines, advertisements, and television dramas, play a significant role in shaping perceptions and trends regarding body hair. While the image of the clean-cut Japanese man is still common, we are also seeing an increase in the representation of men with thicker facial hair and a wider variety of body hair styles.

International fashion trends also influence perceptions of body hair. The beard trend that is popular in Western countries, for example, has influenced some Japanese men to experiment with longer, fuller beard styles. However, adaptation of this trend remains selective and is not widely adopted.

Reasons Japanese men remove their body hair

It is said that maintaining a clean image is actually important to Japanese society. Therefore, it is no wonder that the streets of Japan are filled with various beauty advertisements. Body hair removal has attracted special attention in recent years among Japanese who love beauty.

Hair removal has a strong image for women, but demand is increasing among men. Japanese men believe that removing hair will increase their competitiveness. There are three reasons why Japanese men care about their body hair.

The first reason is the demands in the workplace. Some Japanese men, especially those working in the hospitality industry, think that they can increase their competitiveness in terms of business performance by giving the impression of cleanliness to customers.

The second reason is the view of the opposite sex. Although women pursue beauty, they also want their partners to have an attractive appearance. Therefore, men want to remove hair on their bodies and the demand for hair removal is increasing to give a good impression to the opposite sex.

The third reason is to improve aesthetic sense. Demand is increasing not only among young men but also among men in their 40s and above. Middle-aged Japanese men who remove their body hair think that it is better to remove hair before it turns white.

Conclusion: Diversity in Body Hair Care

Overall, the statement that “Japanese men care about their body hair” is true, but it needs to be interpreted in a broader and more complex way. This care does not necessarily mean shaving all body hair, but rather an emphasis on cleanliness, neatness, and adapting to personal preferences, fashion trends, and social contexts. From a thin mustache to a full beard, from a clean chest to a natural growth of body hair, the diversity in Japanese men’s body hair care reflects the evolution of culture and growing individuality. There is no one standard, and the approach to body hair remains a personal choice influenced by a variety of factors.

Thus the discussion about the reasons why Japanese men care about their body hair. In addition to reasons of cleanliness, work demands and views from the opposite sex are other reasons why Japanese men do it. This is also done by Joshiryoku Danshi who prioritize cleanliness.