Does Shaving Make Hair Grow Back Thicker, Darker or Faster?
Along with "you don't need to exfoliate your body" and "acne is caused by bad hygiene", the idea that shaving makes your hair grow back thicker, darker or faster is one of those persistent beauty myths that won't seem to quit. If you've ever been in two minds about picking up a razor due to thoughts of prickly stubble, a change in hair colour or overnight regrowth, this article is for you. We're here to clear things up once and for all.
Firstly, where did the myth come from? This misinformation probably stems from how shaved hair looks and feels when it begins to grow back again. When you shave, your razor trims down your hair, which creates the effect of a blunt edge. As the shaved hair grows out of the follicle once more, it can feel a little coarse or appear darker – but this is somewhat of an optical illusion; the apparent change in colour is only more prominent against the smooth surface of freshly shaved skin. It's important to note that the hair itself hasn't changed in its structure or cellular makeup.
When you shave you're not growing more hair, nor has it become thicker or darker. It just feels and looks different because of the way it was trimmed. Genetics and hormones are responsible for your hair's colour, texture and cadence of growth. Shaving does not change your hair, or its pigment, at the root.
Shaving is still one of the best and most effective hair removal methods, especially for those who want a quick and cost-effective option. Unlike waxing, which swiftly pulls hair out from the root and can cause irritation and aggravation, shaving is gentle on the skin (when done PROPERLY). There’s no waiting for hair to grow out, no pain and no swelling or redness. Laser is another hair removal method, but it's expensive and has limited efficacy on red, blonde and grey hair. Shaving, on the other hand, is easy to do in the privacy of your own bathroom and allows you to decide when and where you want to remove hair from your body.
Plus, shaving can actually have benefits for skin health if you use the right tools and products. By incorporating adequate SKIN PREP — like exfoliating first, using a PH-BALANCED shave cream, and moisturising post-shave – you can prevent common concerns like RAZOR BURN and INGROWN HAIRS. For us, shaving is more than just hair removal; it’s a self-care ritual.
TIPS FOR A BETTER SHAVE
- Allow the steam from your shower or warm water from your bath to open up the pores and soften the skin before going in with your RAZOR. This makes the hair easier to remove.
- Exfoliate before shaving using our BODY POLISH to delicately sweep away dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. This creates the ideal canvas for your razor to seamlessly glide aross.
- Use a clean, sharp REFILL BLADE to avoid tugging or dragging on the skin. This gives a closer, smoother shave and prevents irritation.
- Choose a skin-loving SHAVE CREAM with soothing ingredients to cushion your skin and provide a protective barrier between it and your razor. Boosted with PLANT-BASED OILS and antioxidants, our Shave Cream continues working its magic even after you step out of the shower or bath.
- Always use BODY MOISTURISER post-shave, ideally while your skin is still slightly damp. This locks in hydration and keeps your skin soft, smooth and glowing.