The truth about hair removal: Myths vs. facts

From shaving to waxing to tweezing to IPL technology, when it comes to hair removal, it can feel like there are masses of methods to choose from. But, with each method and technique comes common hair removal myths and misconceptions.

Whether your mom warned you that shaving your hair would make it grow back thicker and darker (spoiler alert, it doesn’t), or if you were warned to never remove the hair above your knee, everyone has been told a hair removal myth - or two - at some point in their life.

To help put some of the nation’s most common hair removal myths to bed, here at SmoothSkin, our expert team surveyed 2,000 Americans to find out which ones they believe most.

As the saying goes, knowledge is power. So, to help you navigate your way through the world of hair removal, our expert team reveals the truth behind the top 6 most believed hair removal myths below.

Six hair removal myths debunked by experts

Hair Removal Myth #1: Shaving encourages more hair growth

According to our survey data, 1 in 8 people (13%) believe shaving encourages more hair growth.

So, does shaving increase hair growth? With over 37,000 average yearly online searches, this persistent myth is rooted in the idea that shaving makes hair grow back faster or thicker.

But in reality, shaving doesn’t affect the rate or thickness of hair growth at all—it simply blunts the hair’s tip, which can make regrowth feel coarse. Hair growth is determined by genetics and hormones, not razors.

Hair Removal Myth #2: Removing your body hair causes it to grow back darker and thicker

1 in 8 (12%) people told us they believe that removing your body hair causes it to grow back darker and thicker.

The question: “Does shaving make hair thicker?” has an average of 42,000 yearly online searches, but this belief lacks scientific support much like the “shaving encourages more hair growth” myth.

The color and thickness of hair are influenced by your natural hair type and age, not by the act of removal.

In fact, hair removal methods like IPL or waxing can even result in finer regrowth over time.

Hair Removal Myth #3: All hair removal is painful

Our research found that around 6% of American adults believe all hair removal is painful - but it doesn’t have to be!

While some methods, like waxing, can cause temporary discomfort, others—such as shaving, depilatory creams, or advanced laser treatments—can be virtually pain-free.

Choosing the right method for your skin type and tolerance can make all the difference. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you might not be a candidate for waxing.

IPL is another great option for those with sensitive skin, as it’s an effective method for removing hair without the risk of cuts, irritation, and frequent discomfort.

Hair Removal Myth #4: Hair removal damages the skin

According to our survey results, 4% of Americans believe that all hair removal damages the skin.

However, proper hair removal techniques are generally safe and do not harm the skin. Whereas improper practices, such as using a dull razor or neglecting aftercare, can lead to irritation or other issues.

While there are side effects to all hair removal methods when performed incorrectly, some are kinder to the skin than others.

Figuring out which hair removal method is best for you is a personal journey, but why not check out our blog on “IPL vs Laser Hair Removal” to give you a helping hand?

Hair Removal Myth #5: All hair removal causes ingrown hairs

We found that around 4% of American adults believe that all hair removal causes ingrown hairs, but what causes ingrown hairs varies from person to person. The most common cause for this is usually traditional hair removal methods like shaving, tweezing, or waxing.

Our research also found that women are around 1.5 times as likely to experience ingrown hairs compared to men (12% vs 8%).

Exfoliating before hair removal and using proper techniques can significantly reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. If you do have ingrown hair, the treatment will vary depending on the severity of just how ingrown your hair is.

For most people, ingrown hairs will go away on their own after a few days without having to seek professional treatment, although, for some, this can take a couple of weeks.

It’s important to ensure you keep the ingrown hair clean and sanitized to lessen your risk of infection. Exfoliation will also help release ingrown hairs. To do this, use warm water and exfoliate the affected area with small, gentle circular motions.

Check out our guide on preventing ingrown hairs here.

Hair Removal Myth #6: You shouldn’t remove hair above the knees

The results of our survey show that 3% believe you shouldn’t remove hair above the knees.

However, there is no research to suggest why you shouldn’t remove hair above the knees.

Hair on this part of the body tends to be finer and lighter, making it less noticeable and, for some people, may seem unnecessary to remove.

With that said, grooming is a personal choice, and there’s no reason to avoid removing hair above the knees if it suits your personal preferences.