HEALTH

Hey girl, both this and the idea shaving makes hair grow back thicker are two tidbits that constantly go around. They may be prevalent, but the truth to them is the same: Both are totally false. Hair may seem thicker and more noticeable after you shave because it’s shorter. When hair grows back, its stub or root contrasts with the light color of your skin so it might seem darker, thicker and quick to emerge. However, it’s really not growing any faster than before.

Hair at its limit

Think about leg hair as having a growth finish line or limit. Unlike the hair on our heads, it doesn’t keep growing; it stops at a certain point. The difference between a shaved leg and one that hasn’t been shaved is just that: The unshaven leg’s hair has already crossed that finish line. The shaved leg is just catching up — and at the same rate each time you shave.

Keep in mind, too, how you track growth. It’s far easier to notice a dark stub from a smooth, shaved leg the day before than growth of longer strands that haven’t been shaved for a couple of days. A lot of the growth rumor stems from your perception playing tricks on you.

What to do

So what to do when you do shave? Be sure to use shaving cream and avoid using a dull razor to prevent razor burns and irritation. Use lotion afterward to help keep legs smooth. As for frequency, aim to shave once a week at least. Your leg hair may be trying to get back to that growth finish line, but you don’t have to let it.

In all, rest assured and know it’s OK to shave your legs. It’s a part of growing up, and it’s causing no harm to your bod. Know though your leg’s appearance has changed, nothing else about its hair has — rate, thickness or speed — in the process.

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by Alyssa Bailey | 2/1/2016