As a dermatologist with extensive experience in skin and hair health, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question. The belief that shaving causes hair to grow back faster, thicker, or darker is a common misconception. Let's delve into the science behind hair growth and the effects of shaving.

Hair growth occurs in cycles, with each hair follicle going through a phase of growth (anagen), a transitional phase (catagen), and a resting phase (telogen) before shedding and starting the cycle anew. The rate of hair growth is determined by a variety of factors including genetics, hormones, age, and overall health.
Shaving, on the other hand, is a process that cuts the hair off at the skin's surface and does not impact the hair follicle or its growth cycle.

The net effect of a shave on the rate of growth is zero. This is because shaving does not alter the hair's growth rate, which is regulated internally by the hair follicle. Dr. Behrman, a leading expert in the field, also states that cutting or shaving the hair does not make it darker or coarser. The perception that hair grows back faster or feels coarser after shaving is due to the way the hair shaft is cut.

When hair is cut or shaved, the remaining hair shaft is blunt and not tapered as it would naturally be if it were allowed to grow out. This blunt end can feel coarser to the touch. Additionally, a hair shaft is darker and coarser at the root than at the tip due to the structure of the hair and the way it is exposed to environmental factors. Cutting it near the root makes the hair appear darker and coarser, which can be misleading.

In conclusion, shaving does not affect the rate of hair growth, nor does it cause hair to grow back darker or coarser. The changes in appearance and texture are due to the physical characteristics of the hair shaft and the way it is cut, not a biological response to shaving.

read more >>

The net effect of a shave on the rate of growth, therefore, is zero. Dr. Behrman also says cutting or shaving the hair does not make it darker or coarser. However, a hair shaft is darker and coarser at the root than at the tip, and cutting it near the root makes the hair appear darker and coarser.read more >>