Khaberni - It has long been believed that cutting hair makes it grow faster or appear denser, but dermatology experts confirm that this idea is just a myth. The rate of hair growth is determined by what happens under the scalp, not by cutting its ends.
Desmond Tobin, a professor of dermatological sciences at the University of Dublin, clarifies to the "Guardian" that hair grows from follicles that are between 2 and 4 millimeters deep under the skin. Inside these follicles, hair fibers form before they appear on the scalp. Once the hair becomes visible and cuttable, it has already turned into dead tissue, which means that cutting it does not impact the biological processes responsible for its growth.
Hair typically grows at a rate of about one centimeter per month during the active growth phase, a stage that can last for several years before the hair falls out and begins to grow again. Tobin emphasizes that this rate is governed by genetic factors and cannot be sped up by using scissors or by frequent haircuts.
Although cutting does not affect the rate of growth, it can alter the appearance and apparent length of the hair. Frequent thermal styling, dyes, and harsh chemical treatments can weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to splitting and breaking. When hair breaks at a faster rate than it grows, it seems as if it never gets longer.
Here is where regular trimming plays a role, as cutting split ends helps reduce breakage and gives hair a healthier and more uniform appearance. Tobin likens this to pruning a hedge: pruning doesn't change what happens in the depth, but it gives an impression of density and neatness. Similarly, hair strands are thinner at the ends, so cutting them makes them appear thicker and stronger.
"Visual Improvement"
Experts attribute the persistence of this myth to this visual improvement in hair appearance, not to any real change in growth. For those looking to grow their hair longer, Tobin advises focusing on reducing damage rather than increasing the frequency of cuts, by limiting exposure to heat and chemicals and keeping the hair in its natural state as much as possible.
In the end, dermatologists agree that cutting hair does not speed up its growth, but good care can reduce damage and help it retain its length, giving it a healthier and longer appearance over time.
