One in five men won’t take their top off at the beach – because of their hairy back and shoulders.
A poll of 2,000 males revealed 21% avoid a dip in the sea because they are self-conscious about their hairy bodies. While 27% would be worried about showing off their ‘man boobs’ and bellies.
The study also found 19% have received comments from other people about their body hair, which left 20% feeling self-conscious.
When it comes to grooming, 30% of men prefer to keep their body hair trimmed, compared to 27% who embrace it.
However, it emerged 45% will religiously trim the areas they have on show, such as their beard and the top of their neck – but anything else that only gets an occasional outing gets left unkept.
Over a quarter (26%) admitted the only area they do keep trim that’s out of sight is ‘down below’.
While 18% see their bushy back as the most difficult area to deal with – 71% say it’s impossible to reach by yourself and it’s difficult to see (58%) – so only trim as far as they can reach, accepting there will be rogue patches of hair left behind.
The research was commissioned by Philips OneBlade 360 as part of its ‘Got your back, bro’ campaign.
The brand is hosting a pop-up grooming ‘den’ on Brighton beach on Saturday 10th August to give a helping hand to shave the backs of those who prefer to paddle hair-free – so that men can enjoy the full beach experience without any worries.
A spokesperson from the brand, Fiona Atkins, male grooming lead at Philips said: “Summer can sometimes be tough when you’re rocking a lot of body hair due to excess heat and if it’s something you’re self-conscious of.
“And let’s be honest, for those that choose to remove their hair, shaving your own back is basically a team sport.
“As the UK weather continues to be unpredictable, we want those who may feel self-conscious baring all in their natural state to enjoy those surprise sunny days and feel confident that they can trim, edge and shave their back and body hair into whatever style they like, all summer long.”
For 72%, it is important for them to have a well-groomed appearance, and 32% think people should be more playful and adventurous with their body hair styling.
For more than half (55%), personal preference is the main motivator in them grooming their body hair, while 47% do it for comfort and 32% because of the hot weather.
Of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com, 42% feel confident discussing body hair with other male friends.
Fiona Atkins added: “It’s time to embrace individual grooming choices and support each other in feeling good. We’re here to help men feel confident whether they choose a traditional trim, want to get experimental with their body hair or embrace their natural look.
“The key is to do what makes you comfortable and we believe everyone deserves to feel their best and enjoy the summer whilst they can, whatever their grooming style.”