A new campaign in Australia is set to challenge society's beauty ideals by encouraging women to ditch their razors and let their natural body hair grow this month.
While the initiative aims to destigmatise female body hair, there's more to 'Get Hairy February' than embracing the natural look. Participants will also raise funds (through the Full Stop Foundation) for the Rape and Domestic Violence Services Australia, a service which provides support for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.
Although the project is based Down Under, the campaign is asking participants around the world to join in and help to end violence against women.
Director Alex Andrews, who started shaving aged 11, but quit around 18 months ago, said the project was not the female equivalent of Movember, which encourages men to grow moustaches and raise awareness of men's health issues.
"It's acceptable for men to grow seedy moustaches in workplaces around the country, but would it be as acceptable for women to do the same with their armpit and legs hair in the warmer months of February?" Andrews told ABC News. "It's part of creating that conversation."
As it addresses both body image and women rights, it's an important conversation that needs to be had. "We hope women feel empowered to let themselves grow, embrace their natural bodies and be proud to be involved in a community that demands equality and safety for all women," Andrews added.
If you're interested in ditching your razor, you can register or donate to Get Hairy February here.
