Hair Removal: Essential Facts and Fables

The three most helpful hair removal facts and fables at a glance: ‘Does hair grow back thicker, darker and coarser after shaving?’ ‘Does waxing cause less hair growth?’ ‘Does your hair grow more quickly in the summer?’

Finally, summer is here! But to be honest my legs aren’t quite ready for it yet! And I’m sure that I am not the only woman who is guilty of some overdue maintenance… To get you in the right frame of mind today I have listed the three most helpful hair removal facts and fables below:

 

Hairs grow back thicker, darker and coarser after shaving

No, this is not true. In 1928 research into this was carried out and also more recent research has revealed that the hairs which grow back after shaving are not thicker, darker or coarser. It may look like they are, as the outermost end of a hair is often thinner than at the root. The hairs before shaving also look finer than the stubble that grows back, which is most probably how this fable emerged into our world. Furthermore, women and men often start removing hair before or during puberty. This most probably coincides with the sudden thickening of hairs. But hormonal changes are the cause here, and not shaving itself.

 

Regular waxing slows down hair growth

This is true. Waxing does cause hair to stay away for longer; both the hair and its root are pulled out. What many people do not realise is that not all hair is in the same stage of growth. So you may find that new hairs appear the day after waxing. You may also notice that the hairs seem to grow more quickly after the very first time. But repeated removal of a hair can eventually lead to the hair follicle becoming so damaged that hair growth decreases. By the way, if you are prone to pigmentation spots, choose another method in place of waxing.

Hairs grow faster in the summer

That’s right. I can back this up with some research details. Back in 1991 research revealed that the hair growth in a beard grew the slowest in January and February, and subsequently increased by up to 60 percent from March to July. Beside this hair loss is seasonal. People have a fuller head of hair in the summer because less hair falls out then.

Regards,

Jetske

(Dr. Jetske Ultee-Research Physician Cosmetic Dermatology)

You can also read:
Tips to Avoid Irritation After Shaving
Product Advice for Body Care