Myth or fact? Shaving causes new hair growth.

One of the treatments we provide at our skin care clinic in Victoria BC, is Laser hair removal.  In order to prepare for a laser hair removal treatment, the body area to be targeted needs to be shaved. This often leads to the question being raised "does shaving cause new hair growth?" 

MYTH: “If I shave an area of my body, the hair will grow back thicker, darker and coarser.”

Absolutely not true.

Unfortunately, there is a fair amount of misinformation floating around, even from treatment providers such as waxing and electrolysis professionals who should know better. The truth is, shaving will not cause changes to hair growth.

The main contributors to such changes are hormone levels, age, and genetics.

The reason that many people believe that shaving causes hair to grow back thicker and fuller is because when hair first starts to grow back after shaving, it may have a blunt tip that makes it feel coarser and thicker than the hair that has not been shaved. However, this is just a temporary effect and the hair will eventually grow out to its normal thickness and texture.

What Does Contribute to Hair Growth?

• Hormone Levels

Hormones play a significant role in hair growth. Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can affect the growth and thickness of hair. Androgenic hormones such as testosterone and DHT can also play a role in hair growth.

• Genetics

Hair growth patterns are largely determined by genetics. Some women are naturally predisposed to have thicker, longer, or faster-growing hair than others. This is why you may notice some families tend to have similar hair types and patterns.

• Nutrition And Overall Health

Nutritional deficiencies can also impact hair growth. Certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D, are important for healthy hair growth. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can lead to weaker or slower-growing hair.

So, take comfort in the fact that shaving an upper lip, chin or legs, will not cause the growth of a thick unsightly beard, or unmanageable overgrown thighs and calves.

 

Interested in finding out more about the benefits of laser hair removal? We offer FREE consultations! Call 250.590.5459 TODAY!