Many people believe that shaving makes hair grow back faster and thicker, but is there any truth to this common claim? The short answer: No.
Hair growth is dictated by genetics, hormones, and other biological factors—shaving does not change that.
Let’s break down why this myth persists and what really happens when you shave.
Shaved Hair Feels Thicker—But It’s an Illusion
Freshly shaved hair often feels coarser and more noticeable, but this is not because it’s growing back thicker.
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When hair is longer, the tips naturally taper and soften. Shaved hair, on the other hand, is cut bluntly at the thickest part of the strand, making it feel stubbier and appear darker.
Shaving Does Not Affect Hair Growth Rate
It may seem like hair grows faster after shaving, but this is just perception. Hair growth remains steady whether you shave or not.
Shorter hair is simply more noticeable as it grows out, making it seem like it’s growing at a rapid pace.
Hair Growth Follows a Fixed Cycle
Hair follows a natural cycle of growth, rest, and shedding. This cycle continues unchanged whether hair is shaved, waxed, or left alone. Shaving only removes the visible part of the hair but does not impact its growth at the root.
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A 1970 Study Disproved the Myth
Decades ago, researchers put this belief to the test. A group of young men shaved one leg weekly for several months, while the other leg remained unshaven. The results? No difference in hair growth rate or thickness between the shaved and unshaved legs.
Hairs Do Not ‘Learn’ to Grow Thicker
Some believe that repeatedly shaving an area encourages thicker regrowth. However, hair follicles do not adapt in this way. The number and density of hair follicles are determined by genetics, not shaving habits.
Why Facial Hair Seems to Get Thicker Over Time
Men often notice their beards becoming denser with age, leading them to assume shaving has played a role. In reality, this thickening is due to hormonal changes, particularly increased testosterone levels—not because of years of shaving.
Shaving vs. Waxing: Does One Affect Growth More?
Unlike shaving, waxing removes hair from the root, which can weaken follicles over time and potentially lead to finer regrowth. However, shaving only cuts the hair at the surface, so it has no impact on the follicle itself.
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Leg Hair and Arm Hair Grow at Different Rates
Body hair growth varies by location. Leg and arm hair have a shorter growth cycle than scalp hair, which is why they don’t grow indefinitely. This cycle remains constant whether you shave or not.
Can Hair Growth Be Influenced at All?
While shaving doesn’t speed up hair growth, other factors can. Hormones, diet, and even stress levels can influence how thick and fast hair grows. Some medications and conditions can also alter hair density.
So, Should You Shave?
If you’re worried about shaving making your hair grow back thicker or faster, you can rest easy. The only difference you’ll notice is a temporary change in texture—nothing more.
The article is based on information from Illustreret Videnskab.
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