Gen Z Woman Hasn't Shaved in 6 Years—Her Reasons Might Surprise You
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
A 23-year-old woman stopped shaving her body hair six years ago. Now, her explanation for that choice—shared in a TikTok video—has gone viral, being viewed more than 8.4 million times and liked by over 558,000 users.
"For me, it wasn't just about hair; it was about healing my relationship with my body, unlearning deep-rooted shame, and embracing softness, wildness, and choice," Peck told Newsweek. "I stopped shaving during a time of inquiry into what it means to live a more-natural life and also what it is to love myself.
"I realized how much of my energy went into self-surveillance, and letting go of the razor gave me more energy, peace and a sense of returning to myself," she added.
In the post, Georgia Peck, a holistic health coach, spoke directly into the camera from a forest setting and outlined why she walked away from shaving altogether.
"I haven't shaved my legs or my armpits in over six years," Peck, who is based in England, told viewers in the June 9 clip. She added that she had once shaved "on a very regular basis" because it felt necessary "to feel beautiful, and hygienic."
Her video sparked a flood of reactions from viewers online, from support to skepticism. While some praised her transparency, others pushed back, leaving negative comments. The intensity of the response did not go unnoticed by Peck, who said her decision to stop shaving was part of a larger shift toward living more intuitively and in harmony with her body.
From left: Georgia Peck poses in a woodland area.
From left: Georgia Peck poses in a woodland area.
@wildlygeorgia
In the video, viewers were able to see Peck offer four specific reasons for putting down the razor.
"First, it's honestly such a hassle," she said, noting that hair regrowth just a day after shaving felt "uncomfortable" and like another item on a list of things "to 'fix myself' in ways that were not inherently broken."
Georgia Peck addresses viewers in a viral TikTok video.
Georgia Peck addresses viewers in a viral TikTok video.
@wildlygeorgia
Peck also called out the cultural double standards around body hair.
"Why is it considered totally normal for men to have body hair and for women, it is unattractive?" she asked. "Hair in itself isn't inherently dirty, and it's not shameful."
Peck's third reason focused on health risks, pointing to ingredients commonly found in shaving products. She said these are "full of hormone-disrupting chemicals, fragrance, parabens, and chemical coated blades," and often used "on warm and open pores and directly over lymph nodes and in sensitive areas."
Her fourth reason was about self-connection: "I wanted to feel at home in my body again."
Peck said her content across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube centers on "ancestral and root-cause healing—everything from metabolism, gut health, and nervous system regulation to reconnecting with nature and cyclical living."
Peck's viral video prompted what she has called "rich discussion" in the comment section and beyond.
"I've received hundreds of messages and comments from people sharing their own stories," she said. "It's sparked rich discussion about autonomy, shame, nervous system trauma and the cultural narratives we internalize around beauty."
While the response was largely positive, Peck's video highlighting double standards in beauty and personal care appeared to unintentionally showcase it in action. Several viewers left unkind comments about Peck's decision to stop shaving below the post.
"Mental illness," one viewer said, while another added: "You single right?"
"I can't ever understand armpit hair, on anyone," one comment read.
"What do you want? A medal," another added.
Peck has not to let the harsher comments phase her. She said her appearance online is not a campaign or protest, but a deeply personal journey, one where she can block unwanted external noise.
"Sharing my story online is not a 'statement,' but more a reclamation," she said. "And in this video, I wanted to speak on the freedom, power and internal safety and confidence that can come from letting go of rigid beauty standards—including shaving."
Peck added that most of the positive responses to the clip came from other women, many of whom could identify with her reasons and feelings.
"The response has shown me how many people—especially women—are craving honesty, nuance and real permission to live differently," Peck said.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Miami Herald
16 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Shelter Dog's Death at Miami Facility Sparks Heat Safety Concerns
Rocky, a 3 to 4-year-old pit bull terrier mix, died last weekend at Miami-Dade County's overflow animal shelter in Medley after rapidly deteriorating from apparent heat-related distress, according to local reports and social media posts from the agency. The dog appeared healthy during his morning walk before becoming lethargic and vomiting in his kennel, according to NBC 6 South Florida. Despite emergency treatment at the facility's clinic and the main Doral shelter, veterinarians were unable to stabilize Rocky, leading to his death. Newsweek reached out to the Miami-Dade County Animal Services via email outside of normal business hours for comment on Saturday. Rocky's death has intensified scrutiny of animal shelter conditions across Miami-Dade County, particularly regarding temperature control during extreme heat periods in Florida. The incident has sparked widespread community concern and social media outcry about potentially unsafe conditions at municipal animal facilities. With over 500 animals currently under county care and summer temperatures reaching dangerous levels, the case highlights broader challenges facing animal welfare systems nationwide as they struggle with capacity limitations and infrastructure adequacy. The Medley overflow facility houses 117 of the county's 526 animals in care, operating as an open-air building designed to accommodate the system's overcrowding crisis. According to shelter officials, Rocky appeared healthy during his morning walk but quickly declined by midday when staff noticed his lethargy and discovered him vomiting in his kennel. Annette José, director of Miami-Dade County Animal Services, told local station 7News, "Rocky was out for a walk acting, like his usual self. But later, became to get lethargic. Alerted staff to keep an eye on him. He was found in his kennel after vomiting. Quickly, staff and volunteers ran him to our clinic that we have here and tried to get his temperature down." Emergency protocols were immediately activated, with staff and volunteers rushing Rocky to the facility's on-site clinic where they attempted to reduce his body temperature through IV fluid treatment. When these interventions failed to stabilize the dog, he was transferred to the main Doral shelter for advanced veterinary care, but medical staff were ultimately unable to save him. Recent facility tours by 7News revealed approximately a dozen industrial fans scattered throughout the Medley location, with kennel thermometers previously photographed showing temperatures reaching 91 degrees. Former volunteers criticized the fan placement to the news outlet, noting that some units blow air horizontally into concrete walls rather than providing direct cooling relief to animals. Additional cooling measures include continuous cold-water access, shaded play areas for exercise, and small pools for animal use. Miami-Dade Animal Services (@adoptmiamipets) wrote in a statement on Instagram last Saturday: "We are aware of the circulating concerns and discussions regarding the tragic recent loss of Rocky (#A2684435), and as always, we are committed to transparency and providing clarity. Our priority is to keep our community informed, and it is important to us that you hear the full details of what transpired to assure you that we are handling this with the same care and respect that we provide for all the animals in our care." "Today, our hearts are heavy as we share the loss of Rocky, a dog who had been with us at our Medley shelter since May. This morning, Rocky was bright and alert-even playfully jumping around in his kennel. He was housed inside the shelter where large fans run 24/7 to keep air circulating for the comfort of our pets. He and the other pets have access to play pools as well." The agency continued: "Around noon, a diligent volunteer observed Rocky lying down in his kennel with vomit present and promptly notified the staff. He was quickly assessed and, though still alert and able to walk, he collapsed near the play yard. Medical staff responded immediately, administering fluids and swiftly transferring him to our Doral clinic for more extensive care." "Upon examination, our veterinarians determined that Rocky was gravely ill and made the compassionate decision to humanely euthanize him to prevent further suffering. While we are still uncertain about the exact cause of this sudden condition, we have sent samples to the lab for analysis in hopes of uncovering more information." The animal service concluded the statement: "We want to assure our community that Rocky was never alone during this difficult time. From the moment a volunteer noticed something was wrong, to his final moments in the care of our veterinary team, he was surrounded by people who cared deeply and acted quickly to help him. In the end, he was met with kindness, love, and dignity. He was not just another animal in our care - he was a living being who touched the hearts of many." "We remain committed to the safety and well-being of every animal entrusted to us. The loss of Rocky is a painful reminder of how vulnerable these animals can be, and why we need our community's continued support to help us find them loving homes." A concerned Instagram user named @erinsharoni asked the agency: "Can you address the allegations that there are only 3 working fans in the Medley facility when just one year ago with the community raised $15,000 to purchase seven fans from @bigassfans that are now nowhere to be found?" Miami-Dade Animal Services continues investigating Rocky's death while awaiting laboratory results to determine the exact cause. Related Articles Major IRS Changes Coming for Business Tax Audits in 2025Dangerous Heat Wave Threatens Over 30 Million Across SoutheastKristin Cabot Pictured for First Time Since Kiss Cam, Without Wedding RingCould South Park's Trump Attack Cost Paramount? Legal Experts Weigh In 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
New York Post
16 hours ago
- New York Post
Beware these 3 supplements that can be really harmful if you take too much
Talk about supplemental damage. Today's world of wellness can sometimes seem like a merry-go-round of supplements promising you better sleep, healthier skin and extended longevity. But while many of these supplements can be a true healthy hack — what happens if you take too much? 3 A new study proves there really can be too much of a good thing. Diana Vyshniakova – A recent study published in the journal Cureus warns of the dangers of overdosing on three popular supplements. Selenium Found in Brazil nuts, organ meat, seafood, grains and dairy products, selenium is a mineral that can protect the body from infection. It can also help protect telomeres, the tiny caps at the ends of our chromosomes that shrink as we age and are linked to cancer, heart issues and other chronic conditions. But, taken in excess, selenium supplementation can lead to selenosis — an unpleasant condition marked by hair loss, nail brittleness and a metallic taste in your mouth. It can also be accompanied by gastrointestinal issues, fatigue and garlic breath. While symptoms generally abate after you stop taking it, nail growth might be slow to improve. 3 Taken in excess, selenium supplementation can lead to selenosis — an unpleasant condition marked by hair loss, nail brittleness and a metallic taste in your mouth. YULIYA – Niacin Niacin (Vitamin B3) is commonly added to 'detox' supplements and even energy drinks — and is often touted for its cholesterol-lowering properties. But, when taken in large doses, it can cause a bright red facial flush, burning skin sensation, itchiness and even liver toxicity. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as rosacea or allergic reaction, especially among women following influencer-approved 'cleanse' regimens. 3 When taken in large doses, zinc can cause a bright red facial flush, burning skin sensation, itchiness and even liver toxicity. dream@do – Zinc Zinc is an electrolyte that's important for immunity, skin and hair health. However, taken in excess, zinc can cause skin irritation, copper deficiency and anemia — and may worsen acne in sensitive individuals. Overall, the study points to the fact that, while sometimes helpful, many social media trends can be harmful to the health of viewers. 'Recent analyses indicate that a significant proportion of nutrition-related content on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and TikTok may lack scientific rigor or present unverified claims,' the study's authors write. 'A recent study evaluating nutrition-related TikTok posts found that 55% lacked evidence-based information, and 90% failed to adequately discuss the risks and benefits of the nutritional advice provided. 'Moreover, only 36% of analyzed posts were classified as completely accurate, highlighting the extent of misinformation prevalent on popular social media channels.'
Newsweek
20 hours ago
- Newsweek
Pregnant Woman Goes Into Labor, Then Sees Her Doctor From Hospital Window
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The dramatic moment when a doctor sprinted across a hospital car park to deliver a baby has gone viral on TikTok, racking up 4.6 million views. The footage, shared by mom-of-four Angelica (@epicangelicanatalie), shows Dr. Christopher Kraft racing against time, as she was already 10cm dilated when he got the call. Angelica, who lives in Houston, Texas, told Newsweek: "Dr. Kraft came in perfectly calm with a 'ready to have a baby?' As if he wasn't just running in July Florida heat." The text layered over the clip states Piece Epic was born five minutes later. Angelica holding her newborn son and her family visiting them in hospital. Angelica holding her newborn son and her family visiting them in hospital. Provided by Angelica According to CDC data, a total of 3,596,017 births occurred in the United States in 2023, down 2 percent from 2022. The general fertility rate also declined 3 percent, falling to 54.5 births per 1,000 females aged 15–44 in 2023. Kraft has been Angelica's doctor for the past five years, but Epic is the first one he has delivered—just over a week ago. She told Newsweek: "The last office visit I had with him I insisted that I did not want him to miss this one! "We timed it perfectly with a very light induction considering I was very far dilated already, and my son was born eight hours later." Before filming the now-viral clip—which has gained almost 557,000 likes—Angelica said a nurse had mentioned how they often see Dr. Kraft running from his office to see patients. Then, like clockwork, they looked out of a third-floor window and saw him doing exactly that. "We found it so caring that he puts in that effort, and funny at the same time," she said. "I'm usually the one with a camera in my hand, but this time my husband Sage was the one who was recording, and his commentary made the video so perfectly wholesome." Indeed, Sage can be heard laughing, saying "he is ready," and complimenting the doctor's pace. Kraft told Newsweek: "While she was in labor, I was seeing patients in my office and monitoring her progress very closely. The nurse had reached out to me and informed me that delivery appeared imminent. "Once I got the word, I rushed from my office down four flights of stairs and ran out the backdoor to the hospital. I needed to get there as quickly as possible to ensure her safety and the safety of her baby, and running was my only option." Angelica requested a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), and Kraft was supportive of her decision. According to the American Pregnancy Association, most studies show that 60–80%—or about 3 to 4 out of every 5 women—who've had a previous C-section can have a successful vaginal birth. However, there are risks, which is why Kraft didn't want to miss a thing. TikTok Reacts So far, the clip has over 3,000 comments - some from parents who recognize Kraft and others sharing their birthing experiences. "My doctor came literally stumbling in. Dude got caught in the curtain got twisted up and fell and popped back up and said it's baby time," said one user. Another wrote: "My doc knew I'd deliver within minutes, we called him and he was half asleep and said "IM ON MY WAY, LOVE YOU BYE" I said "love you too." "With my 2nd the doctor said it would be 2-3 hours until I had to push. Wrong, it was 10 minutes. He came crashing into the room said "whoops" and caught my son one handed," said a third commenter. If you have a family dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
