Debunking 8 Myths About Shaving and Hair Growth

Published on March 4, 2025

by Kyle Bennett

Shaving has long been surrounded by myths — from tales of thicker regrowth to beliefs about permanent damage. Whether it’s facial hair, legs, or arms, people have passed down “truths” that don’t always hold up under scientific scrutiny. So what’s real, and what’s just stubble-level fiction?

Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the most common myths about shaving and hair growth — using real science, not hearsay.

Debunking the Most Persistent Shaving Myths

Here are eight common beliefs about shaving — and the facts that cut right through them:

Myth 1. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker

This is the most widespread myth — and totally false.

What’s really happening:

Shaving cuts hair at the surface, not the root or follicle.
The blunt tip of a shaved hair feels coarser than a natural taper, creating the illusion of thickness.
Regrowth is the same texture and density as before — it just appears different during early growth.
Numerous studies confirm no link between shaving and increased hair growth.

Myth 2. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Faster

Another myth based on perception rather than biology.

The facts:

Hair growth rate is determined by genetics, hormones, and location — not shaving frequency.
After shaving, hair appears quickly because the exposed shaft is already close to the surface.
You’re seeing the regrowth more clearly — not experiencing faster growth.

Myth 3. Shaving Affects Hair Color

Some claim that shaving makes hair grow back darker — not true.

What’s behind this idea:

Newly shaved hair may look darker because it’s blunt and not sun-bleached yet.
Color perception changes with lighting and contrast against skin.
Melanin production (which determines hair color) isn’t affected by shaving.

Myth 4. Frequent Shaving Damages Skin

Only partly true — but not if done correctly.

What to know:

Using a dull razor, poor technique, or no lubrication can irritate skin.
However, shaving with a clean, sharp blade and moisturizer is generally safe.
Exfoliation from shaving can even smooth skin when done gently.

Myth 5. Everyone Should Shave With the Grain

This advice isn’t one-size-fits-all.

The truth:

Shaving with the grain (in the direction of hair growth) reduces irritation and ingrown hairs.
But some people prefer shaving across or against the grain for a closer result.
The right method depends on skin sensitivity, hair type, and razor quality.

Myth 6. Shaving Causes Ingrown Hairs

Shaving can contribute — but it’s not the root cause.

What’s really happening:

Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin rather than out.
This is more common with curly or coarse hair, especially when shaved very closely.
Proper prep (like exfoliating and softening skin) can reduce the risk.

Myth 7. Shaving Daily Is Bad for You

It depends on your skin and shaving routine.

Here’s the nuance:

For some, daily shaving causes irritation, especially if skin isn’t moisturized.
Others shave daily without issue — particularly with a gentle routine and good products.
It’s not the frequency, but the technique that matters most.

Myth 8. You Should Avoid Shaving for Better Long-Term Hair Removal

Shaving is often unfairly compared to waxing or laser treatments.

The facts:

Shaving cuts hair at the surface — it doesn’t remove the follicle.
That doesn’t make it ineffective — just temporary.
For many, shaving is a low-cost, painless, and convenient method of grooming.

The Backstory of Shaving Science

Much of what we “know” about shaving comes from passed-down advice, not research. But studies dating back to the 1920s have tested these myths — including controlled trials where people shaved one leg and left the other untouched. The verdict has always been the same: shaving doesn’t change hair growth patterns.

Still, the myths persist — partly because early regrowth feels and looks different than untouched hair, and partly because rumors spread faster than science.

Why It’s So Intriguing

This topic proves that science can be practical — and sometimes liberating. Understanding what shaving can and can’t do clears away anxiety, saves money on gimmicky products, and helps people build routines that actually work for them.

Plus, it’s a great example of how perception shapes what we believe, even when the biology says otherwise.

What Most People Don’t Know

Here are a few bonus insights that bust even more myths:

Hair texture and thickness are largely determined during puberty — not by grooming habits.
Women and men shave differently because of hair density, skin sensitivity, and pressure.
Some razors marketed for women are nearly identical to men’s — just priced differently (aka “pink tax”).
Shaving foam vs. gel is mostly a personal preference — neither one affects hair growth.

Bonus Fact

In ancient Egypt, both men and women shaved their entire bodies — not for fashion, but for hygiene and status. Bronze razors have even been found in tombs!

Takeaway

Shaving doesn’t change your hair’s growth, color, or thickness — no matter what your cousin’s roommate’s aunt says. What it does is offer a fast, convenient way to groom, smooth, and feel comfortable in your skin.

So go ahead and shave — or don’t. But now, at least, you’ll be armed with facts instead of fuzzed-up fiction.