It is a complex process influenced by various factors, such as the hair growth cycle, age, immunity, and vitamin intake.

In many cultures around the world, the practice of tonsuring (shaving hair on the scalp) is a common phenomenon. Apart from the religious significance, it is widely believed that shaving promotes hair growth in infants, children as well as adults.

First Check reached out to Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, a dermatologist and hair transplant specialist based in Delhi, India, to verify the popular claim. “There is no scientific evidence to support a correlation between shaving or cutting hair and hair growth. Hair growth is a complex process influenced by various factors, such as the hair growth cycle, age, immunity, and vitamin intake,” she says. 

Contrary to popular perceptions, shaving does not influence the growth of new hair, nor does it modify its texture or density. “However, trimming can assist in maintaining healthy hair in case of split ends or dry, frizzy hair,” notes the dermatologist. 

To shave or not to shave is a personal choice. However, it’s important to ensure necessary hygiene during tonsuring to prevent adverse outcomes, such as secondary bacterial infections and transmission of HIV and Hepatitis B virus infections, to name some.