Does Shaving Cause Women To Grow Coarse And Thick Facial Hair?

The biggest fear women have regarding facial shaving is - will it cause their hair to grow back hard, thick or dark—much like men's facial hair? Due to this fear, many women shy away from shaving their faces, opting instead to endure the pain of facial waxing or threading.

Does shaving cause hair to grow back thicker or darker?

Shaving facial hair does not make it thicker, alter its colour or increase its density. The texture and growth pattern of our hair depend on our body's hormones and genetics, not on the method we use to cut it.

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Addressing the misconception

When we shave, the razor cuts the hair at an angle right at the skin's surface. As these hairs begin to grow back, their tips are blunt. Consequently, they may feel slightly coarse to touch. However, once they grow back to their full length, they become just as soft as they were before. Shaving has absolutely no effect on the hair root, and therefore, it causes no change in the hair's natural growth pattern.

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The correct way to shave your face?

Prepare the skin: Never run a razor directly over dry skin. First, wash your face with a mild cleanser to remove any dust and oil buildup.

Lubrication: To ensure a smooth shave, apply aloe vera gel, facial oil or a lightweight moisturiser to your face. This allows the razor to glide effortlessly, significantly reducing the risk of nicks, cuts or skin irritation. Never dry shave.

Choose the right razor: Instead of using a standard body razor, opt for a single-blade razor specifically designed for facial shaving. These razors feature smaller, finer blades that are safe and suitable for the delicate contours of the face.

The correct shaving technique

– Use one hand to pull your skin upward and taut. Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle, use short strokes to shave in the direction of hair growth.

– After shaving, rinse your face with cold water. Follow up with a good moisturiser and avoid using any products containing AHAs or BHAs. Additionally, be sure to apply sunscreen before stepping out into the sun. If you have active acne or any type of skin infection on your face, refrain from shaving.