Will Waxing My Sideburns Make Them Grow Back Thicker?

When it comes to facial hair removal, many women with sideburn concerns are faced with a burning question—does waxing make hair grow back thicker? If you’re considering waxing your sideburns or have already had “waxed sideburns,” this guide will help you understand the effects and whether it’s the right decision for you.

Does Waxing Sideburns Make Hair Grow Back Thicker?

Contrary to some rumors, the concept that shaving hair makes it grow back thicker, darker, or faster is a myth. However, when it comes to waxing, the situation is different. Waxing sideburns involves pulling hair out from the follicle, which can, over time, lead to changes in how the hair regenerates. Here’s the science behind it:

What Happens When You Wax Facial Hair?

When you pull hair out by its root (such as through waxing or plucking), you damage the follicle. This encourages the body to repair the area by increasing blood flow to the follicle, which may lead to:

Thicker, Darker Hair – The regrowth can appear coarser and darker after several wax sessions.
Faster Regrowth – Damaged follicles may strengthen over time, leading to more noticeable hair regrowth.
Stimulation of Nearby Follicles – Increased blood flow can also “wake up” dormant follicles, potentially leading to more growth in areas previously unaffected.

This means that while waxing is a short-term solution, regular sessions could worsen the issue of thick female sideburns for individuals experiencing excessive hair growth.

Why Do Sideburns Sometimes Appear Thicker After Waxing?

It’s not just the waxing itself that could lead to changes in hair regrowth. Hormonal changes, genetics, and underlying conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can exacerbate the appearance of thicker or more abundant hair. If hair on your sideburns grows back significantly darker or thicker after waxing, speak with a dermatologist or endocrinologist to rule out medical concerns.

Are There Other Options Besides Waxing?

When it comes to managing thick female sideburns, waxing isn’t your only option. Below are some alternatives worth considering:

1. Shaving

Unlike waxing, shaving does not disturb or damage the hair follicle. This means it doesn’t increase hair thickness or regrowth rate. However, the blunt tip caused by shaving can sometimes make hair feel “stubbly,” which is why this method might feel less appealing to some.

2. Depilatory Creams

These dissolve hair at the skin’s surface. They’re easy to use and don’t promote thicker growth, but some people might find them irritating for sensitive areas like the face.

3. Threading

Threading uses a twisted thread to remove hair, but like waxing, it pulls hair from the root. Its effects on regrowth are similar to waxing.

4. Laser Hair Removal

For those looking for a long-term solution, laser hair removal is an effective option. However, it requires multiple sessions, may not work on lighter hair colors, and can be an investment.

5. Electrolysis

Electrolysis uses an electric current to destroy individual hair follicles. This method is suitable for all hair and skin types, including light-colored hair, and prevents regrowth.

Tired of Waxing? Consider Your Goals

When deciding whether to continue waxing sideburns or try something else, think about your long-term goals:

If you’re seeking a smooth finish for special occasions and don’t mind regrowth, waxing is quick and effective.
If you’re after a more permanent solution for thick female sideburns, laser hair removal or electrolysis could be your best bet.
If you’re simply trying to manage occasional growth, lower-impact methods like shaving or depilatory creams may suffice without encouraging thicker regrowth.

What to Do If You’re Second-Guessing Waxing Sideburns

If you’ve already waxed your sideburns and are concerned about the results, don’t panic! While you can’t undo follicle damage, you can prevent further issues by switching to gentler hair removal methods or talking with a professional.

A Few Tips to Keep in Mind:

Avoid over-waxing the same area. Give your skin time to rest and recover fully.
Always prep your skin with a cleanser before waxing and soothe it afterward to minimize irritation.
If you notice more hair sprouting after waxing, consider consulting with a professional about advanced options like laser or electrolysis.

Final Thoughts on Waxing Sideburns

Waxing sideburns can be an effective temporary solution, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Regular waxing may contribute to thicker, faster-growing hair in the long term due to the damage it causes at the follicle level. For women dealing with facial hair concerns, understanding the effects of waxing sideburns and exploring alternatives is crucial to making the best decision for their skin and hairstyle preferences.