merkins

A merkin is a pubic wig worn to cover the genital area. Historically it has served as a decorative or practical accessory, and in modern times it remains a standard item in film, theater, and wardrobe departments for reasons of modesty, period accuracy, and privacy.

The origin and etymology of the term merkin are uncertain, with no definitive record of how the word entered English. The concept of wearing a pubic wig appears in European theatrical and sexual contexts from the early modern period onward. In some historical accounts, merkins were used by women who had shaved or removed pubic hair for medical or personal reasons, or by sex workers seeking modesty or protection. The exact circumstances and frequency of use varied by era and locale, and the term has since become a recognized, if somewhat niche, item in costume supply.

In theatre and film, merkins are commonly employed to achieve period accuracy or to preserve modesty during scenes that involve nudity or simulated nudity. They allow productions to depict historical or fictional settings where hair growth would be expected, without requiring actors to reveal their bodies. Merkins can be made from human hair or synthetic fibers and are affixed with skin-safe adhesives or base mounts, with variations in size, density, and color to match the wearer and the intended look.

In contemporary use, merkins are primarily a professional costume accessory rather than a personal fashion item. They are produced and distributed by costume houses and are used across stage, screen, and photography work, as well as in some medical or private contexts where discretion is desired. See also wigs and hairpieces.