Does Waxing Make Hair Grow Back Thicker? Common Myths Explained

“Won’t waxing make my hair grow back thicker and darker?” It is one of the questions we hear most often before someone’s first wax. If you have wondered the same thing, you are not alone. Below, we explain what is generally known about hair growth, why hair can seem thicker after hair removal, and what to know before you book.

The short answer

According to widely shared dermatology guidance, waxing does not make hair grow back thicker or darker. How thick your hair is and how fast it grows depend mainly on genetics, hormones, age and your own body.

Removing hair from the surface, or from the root, does not change the follicle that produces it. The follicle keeps growing hair according to those same factors.

So why can hair feel thicker?

• Shaved hair has a blunt tip. A razor cuts straight across the hair, leaving a flat end instead of the natural tapered tip. As it grows out, that blunt end can feel rougher to the touch and look darker, even though the hair itself is no thicker.
• Waxed hair grows back from the root. Wax removes hair from the root rather than cutting it. When it grows back, some people feel it is softer or finer, but this is not the same for everyone.
• New hair is easier to notice. After waxing, the skin is smooth, so the first new hairs stand out more. That can make it seem as if more hair, or thicker hair, has grown back.
• Hair changes over time anyway. Hormones, age, genetics and your body all affect hair over the years. A change you notice is not necessarily caused by waxing.

Before you wax

• Pain. Waxing can sting or hurt. How much you feel depends on the area and on you; sensitive areas usually feel it more.
• Hair length. Hair should be about 0.5 cm long so the wax can hold it. If you have just shaved, wait until it grows back to a suitable length.
• Regrowth. Regrowth time differs from person to person and from area to area, so we do not give one fixed timeframe for everyone.
• Your skin. If your skin is irritated, sunburned or has a cut, tell our staff before your treatment. If redness, itching or discomfort lasts or gets worse after waxing, please see a dermatologist.

How Linh Lan does it

• For larger areas such as arms and legs, we use strip wax. For small or sensitive areas such as the bikini line and face, we use hard wax. The method is chosen by area and skin condition.
• If your skin shows signs of irritation after waxing, our staff can use a cooling air machine (around -30°C) to help calm it.
• Wooden sticks and medical gloves are single-use. Other tools are cleaned after every client and stored clean.

See also: waxing price list · male Brazilian waxing

Frequently asked questions

Does waxing often make hair thinner?

Some people notice their hair grows back softer or finer after regular waxing, but this is not the same for everyone, and we do not promise this result.

How often should I wax?

Regrowth varies by person and area. Come back when your hair has reached a suitable length again (about 0.5 cm), rather than following one fixed schedule.

It’s my first time. Is that okay?

Yes. It may feel unfamiliar at first. We check the area and your skin first and go at a calm pace. If you feel uncomfortable, just let us know.

Can I wax right after shaving?

Wax needs about 0.5 cm of hair to hold onto. If you have just shaved, please wait until the hair grows to that length.

What are your opening hours?

We are open every day from 10:30 to 20:00.

Do I need to book?

Yes. Walk-ins are welcome at Linh Lan, but you may need to wait if we are fully booked. Message us on WhatsApp or Zalo to book. If you need to change or cancel, please let us know one day before.