Hairy Situations: Too Much, Too Little & Shaving / Question
Published: February 26, 2001

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Is it true that when you shave the hair you shave will actually grow back bigger than it used to be if you don't shave again?

Signed: Shaved Hair Grow Back Bigger

Dear Shaved Hair Grow Back Bigger,

 

This is a common myth, shaved hair only appears to grow back thicker and darker because it doesn't have the fine pointed tip that new hair would. The stubble just makes it appear thicker until the hair grows out.

This myth also comes from the observation of men's facial hair. As young men began to shave, their facial hair would in fact grow in thicker. However this was related to puberty and not a result of shaving. Once men reach maturity the amount of facial hair remain relatively the same.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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