Does Shaving Make Hair Grow Thicker?
No, shaving does not make hair grow back thicker, darker, or faster. This is a persistent myth. Shaving cuts hair at the surface, creating a blunt tip that may feel coarser. The hair shaft tapers naturally at the end; when cut flat, the blunt edge feels stubbly. Hair thickness is determined by genetics, not shaving.
Key Takeaways
- Hair grows from follicles beneath the skin surface.
- Hormonal changes, age, and certain [medications](/does-medication-expire) can actually change hair thickness - unrelated to shaving.
- Waxing and plucking remove hair from the root, so regrowth starts with a natural tapered tip.
Explanation
Hair grows from follicles beneath the skin surface. Shaving only affects the dead portion of hair above the skin and has no impact on the follicle, hair growth rate, or hair thickness. Multiple scientific studies have confirmed this conclusion.
The illusion of thicker regrowth occurs because unshaved hair has a naturally tapered, fine tip from wear. When hair is cut straight across by a razor, the blunt end feels stubbier and appears darker because the full diameter of the shaft is exposed rather than a fine tip.
Hair may also appear darker simply because new growth has not been lightened by sun exposure, and shorter hairs stand up more stiffly than longer ones that lie flat. None of these factors indicate actual changes to the hair itself.
Things to Know
- Hormonal changes, age, and certain medications can actually change hair thickness - unrelated to shaving.
- Waxing and plucking remove hair from the root, so regrowth starts with a natural tapered tip.
- Individual perception of regrowth varies; expectation of thicker hair may increase awareness of stubble.