Does Scrubbing Reduce Hair Growth?
No, scrubbing itself does not directly reduce hair growth. However, the effect of scrubbing on hair growth depends heavily on where you're scrubbing and why.
Several sources indicate that exfoliating the scalp can actually benefit hair growth by removing buildup that clogs hair follicles. This allows hair to grow more easily. Products like the Umberto Giannini Grow Scrub are marketed for this purpose. https://www.umbertogiannini.com/products/grow-scrub-exfoliating-scalp-scrub Similarly, exfoliating before shaving or waxing can improve the hair removal process by removing dead skin cells, but it doesn't reduce the hair's eventual regrowth. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hair-removal-at-home https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322858
Conversely, aggressive scrubbing or the use of harsh scrubs could potentially irritate the scalp, potentially leading to inflammation which could indirectly impact hair growth negatively. A trichologist (hair doctor) warns that improper scrubbing could worsen scalp issues and affect hair growth.
Understanding Different Types of Scrubs and Their Effects
- Scalp Scrubs: Designed to remove product buildup and stimulate the scalp, often promoting healthier hair growth.
- Body Scrubs: Used for exfoliation, improving the effectiveness of hair removal methods (waxing, shaving), but not affecting hair growth itself.
- Facial Scrubs: Similar to body scrubs, may indirectly affect beard growth by removing dead skin cells. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-grow-beard-faster
Key Considerations
- Type of scrub: Gentle scrubs are beneficial; harsh scrubs can be damaging.
- Frequency: Over-scrubbing can irritate the skin.
- Specific goal: Scrubbing for improved hair removal versus promoting hair growth are distinct objectives.
