As a hair care specialist with years of experience in dermatology, I've often been asked about the common myth that hair grows back faster after shaving. Let's delve into the science behind this phenomenon.

Firstly, it's essential to clarify that **shaving does not change the rate of hair growth**. The belief that hair grows faster after being shaved is a misconception. Hair growth occurs in cycles and is determined by the hair follicle, which is located beneath the skin's surface. The cycle consists of three phases: the anagen phase, where the hair is actively growing; the catagen phase, a transitional period; and the telogen phase, where the hair is resting and eventually falls out to be replaced by new hair growth.

The rate of hair growth is influenced by various factors such as genetics, hormones, age, and overall health. It is generally estimated that human hair grows about half an inch per month, or about six inches per year, with little variation between individuals.

Now, the illusion that hair grows faster after shaving can be attributed to the way hair regrowth appears. When you shave, you're cutting the hair off at its thickest part, right below the skin's surface. As the hair grows back, it comes out blunt and can feel coarse or "stubbly." This blunt tip can create the tactile impression that the hair is thicker or growing more rapidly, but in reality, it's just the physical appearance of the hair that has changed.

Additionally, as the hair grows back, it may appear darker because the new growth hasn't been exposed to the elements and hasn't lightened from sun exposure or other environmental factors. This can give the impression of increased thickness or darkness, but again, the actual growth rate remains unaffected.

It's also worth noting that shaving can cause microtrauma to the skin, which might stimulate the hair follicles to produce a thicker or coarser hair, but this effect is usually minimal and not the primary reason for the perceived increase in growth speed.

In conclusion, the perception that hair grows faster after shaving is a myth. The actual growth rate is determined by biological factors within the hair follicle and is not influenced by the act of shaving. The changes in appearance and texture are due to the physical properties of the hair shaft and the way it is cut, rather than an increase in the biological growth process.

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No -- shaving hair doesn't change its thickness, color or rate of growth. Shaving facial or body hair gives the hair a blunt tip. The tip might feel coarse or "stubbly" for a time as it grows out. During this phase, the hair might be more noticeable and perhaps appear darker or thicker -- but it's not.read more >>