The relationship between regular haircuts and hair growth in Oxfordshire
A statement often made by Hair Stylists and a question posed by clients is “Does cutting your hair make it grow faster?” and it’s one of those timeless hair myths that continues to gain traction despite advances in our understanding of hair biology. Whilst there is sense in regular hair cuts to ensure that your hair looks healthier and fuller, we outline the hair science behind this popular belief and explain why regular haircuts are essential yet aren’t critical for the speed at which your hair grows.
If you are considering something different, our ladies haircutting service page can help. Finally, if you’re new to the salon and not sure how to get the most value from your next appointment, need a consultation or would value a conversation before booking, call or send a WhatsApp message on 01235 534705.
Regular Haircut FAQ’s
Understanding Hair Growth: The Basics
Hair growth is a process that occurs deep within the scalp at the hair follicle, a small but complex structure embedded in the skin. Each follicle produces keratin which is responsible for the protein that forms the hair shaft. New cells grow from the base of the follicle and gradually push older cells upward and out through the scalp. The byproduct of this process is what you see; your hair is essentially those dead keratinised cells which have been “pushed” out which means that any cutting happens only to this non-living portion.
On average, hair grows about half an inch per month, though this isn’t an exact science nor an identical measurement for every person. Rates are typically influenced and can vary depending upon genetics, age, health, and hormones. The growth cycle of hair comprises three distinct phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting and shedding). The stage which determines growth is the active growth phase which isn’t influenced by the frequency or infrequency of a haircut. That being said, the issue which many people may experience is split ends (also known as split hairs). The need to address split hairs won’t affect the active growth phase though it will achieve greater length when avoiding your hair splitting.
Why cutting hair does not directly influence hair growth
When your Stylist cuts your hair, they are working on hair which is the non-living portion. Since the follicle (which remains untouched beneath the surface) is untouched, cutting hair will not in any way influence the rate at which new cells form. To liken it to a tree: cutting branches or leaves does not make the roots grow faster. The only factor that truly controls how quickly your hair grows is the biological activity within the follicle itself. Here’s why you can’t make your hair grow faster.
Factors that affect hair growth
Understanding what genuinely influences hair growth can help you manage expectations and focus on what truly matters. There are a number of factors which can play a role in hair growth:
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Genetics: Sadly this is one uncontrollable and yet the primary determinant for your hair growth, texture and density.
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Nutrition: Your nutrition matters. A sufficient intake of protein and a health blend essential vitamins including but not limited to biotin, vitamin D, and iron are vital for follicle health.
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Hormonal Balance: Changes in hormones during pregnancy, menopause, or due to medical conditions can speed up or slow down growth.
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Health and Lifestyle: Stress, illness, and certain medications can disrupt hair growth cycles.
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Scalp Care: Healthy follicles require a clean, nourished scalp. Poor scalp health can impair hair production.
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Hair Care Practices: Gentle handling, avoiding excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments, support strong, resilient hair.
Practical tips to encourage healthy hair growth
While haircuts themselves don’t make hair grow faster, there are several practical steps you can take to optimise your hair’s health and encourage consistent growth:
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Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health.
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Hydrate well to keep follicles and scalp nourished.
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Use hair care products suited to your hair type, avoiding harsh sulfates and excessive silicones.
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Regularly massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow and follicle activity.
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Minimise heat styling and chemical processes that weaken the hair shaft.
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Manage stress through relaxation techniques and a healthy lifestyle.
When should you get a haircut?
While trimming won’t make hair grow faster, it’s still essential for healthy hair and critically, length (which is an important distinction to make between length and growth). We recommend booking a haircut every 8-12 weeks, depending on your hair type and condition, to keep your hair looking its best and to prevent damage. Anything beyond 12 weeks can result in more radical hair cuts at each appointment and if your intention is longer and healthier hair, regular cuts do become more pivotal.
FAQ’s About Hair Growth & Cutting
Q: Can cutting damaged hair make it grow faster?
A: Cutting only removes damaged or split ends and reduces breakage but does not affect the biological growth rate from the follicle. However, as a direct results many clients report that they are able to achieve greater length largely due to managing the rate of split ends.
Q: Does washing hair less frequently help it grow faster?
A: Washing more of less frequently, won’t affect your hair growth.
Q: Are there products that can speed up hair growth?
A: No, there are no products available which can speed up hair growth.
Conclusion
Cutting your hair does not your hair grow faster because hair growth starts internally. However regular haircuts which in-turn address split ends can achieve longer and healthier hair. Your Stylist is likely to advocate a holistic approach to hair care which includes a balanced a nutritious dietary intake, scalp care, and gentle styling will better support strong, healthy hair growth over time.
