Beauty Myth Busters: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker and Darker

Whether you shave your legs or facial hair or both, you may have heard the famous rumor that hair grows back thicker after shaving. This can strike fear in the hearts of those who shave regularly, because it would cause more of what you’re trying to get rid of.

But before you put down your razor or trimmer, we’re here to tell you the truth about this common shaving debate — so you can put your worries to bed and move forward with your hair removal method of choice. Read on for the facts on the matter and other hair removal rumors. 

Does Hair Grow Back Thicker After Shaving? 

Let’s cut to the chase. The good news is, the rumor that hair grows back thicker after shaving is just that — a rumor. According to the Mayo Clinic, shaving facial or body hair doesn’t change its thickness, but it does leave it with a blunt tip. 

As the hair begins to grow back, it typically feels coarse and stubbly, which is why it can sometimes appear to be growing back thicker. This applies to the hair on your head, arms, and face (you can expect the same results even when removing peach fuzz). Once the hair grows out, it will look just the same as it did before shaving.

Does Hair Grow Back Darker After Shaving? 

With color, it’s the same deal. The Mayo Clinic states that shaving hair won’t change its color. Again, the regrowth phase can often create the illusion of hair that is growing in thicker — and therefore darker — since it has a blunt tip once shaved.

Does Hair Grow Back Hair Faster After Shaving?

Another false alarm. While it may seem as though your hair growth speeds up post-shave, the Mayo Clinic says this is not the case. Rather, you’re likely more aware of regrowth that’s occurring since you’re committed to the routine of shaving (plus, you’re going from no hair there to hair growing in so it’s more noticeable).

Does Hair Grow Back Thicker After Waxing? 

You may be curious about other types of hair removal and if they can cause your hair to grow back thicker. One that’s probably popped into mind is waxing. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology, waxing is a form of epilation that removes hair from the root. 

The good news is that waxing and removing hair from the root actually causes the hair to grow back thinner and lighter over time, so it may be a better alternative for those who are looking for a longer-lasting result overall.

Does Hair Grow Back Thicker After Laser Removal? 

We have one last hair removal method to cover — you may be curious about laser hair removal and if it can lead to thicker regrowth. Fortunately, laser hair removal does the exact opposite. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that laser hair removal can take six sessions or more to remove the hair but that the hair removal is permanent on most parts of the body.

How to Hide Noticeable Hair Growth

If you’re worried about your hair regrowth being noticeable post-shave, you’re not alone. Here are some top tips for hiding any noticeable strands.

1. Use Self-Tanner

Self-tanner can be your saving grace when it comes to a lot of beauty concerns. Aside from giving you a beautiful glow sans dangerous UV rays, it’s also great for concealing blemishes and grown out hair. Use an airbrush self-tanner, like the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Salon Airbrush Self-Tanning Mist Medium Natural Tan, for an instant cover-up.

2. Try a Blurring Body Lotion

Just as there are blurring face moisturizers, a blurring body lotion can help smooth the appearance of your skin. With an application, it can help blur out stubble, uneven skin tone, and make your skin look more airbrushed. This, in turn, will help minimize the appearance of any noticeable regrowth.

3. Use Body Makeup

When in doubt, turn to body makeup to conceal noticeable hair in a pinch. You don’t need a crazy amount of coverage to hide stubble — just a small amount of matte liquid foundation, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation can work wonders.

Next: 7 Shaving Cream Alternatives You Can Find Around The House

Edited by: Shannon Stubbs, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn