Debunking 4 Common Myths at the Barbershop

​Let’s set the record straight! Here are some of the most common shaving, skin and haircut misconceptions we hear about. We understand the concerns but want to offer some truth!  

MYTH 1  Shaving makes your hair grow back thicker and darker!

​We have always heard people say that shaving will make your hair grow back faster, thicker, or darker.  This is simply not true.  A shaved or cut hair has a blunt tip, making it look or feel that way. But remember, that cut is above the surface. The root of the hair remains the same, and continues the same growth pattern as before the shave or cut.   Only hormones and genetics determines the true growth rate and how many follicles a person has.  This fantastic article in The Star Telegram talks specifically about this myth in detail.

MYTH 2  Dry scalp and dandruff are the same thing.

Another myth we hear is that dandruff and dry scalp are the same.  They look similar, but dandruff is an imbalance of yeast on the scalp. A dry scalp is just skin that is simply dehydrated, lacking moisture.

Dandruff will need a special shampoo with antifungal ingredients to treat. The two most common active ingredients are zinc pyrithione and selinium sulfide. Natural ways to treat dandruff could include using tea tree oil or aloe vera.  After the dandruff is under control, just use regular moisturizing shampoo.  Check out this anti-dandruff shampoo by GKHair.
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A dry scalp can be caused by sebaceous glands producing less oil for the scalp.  Environmental elements, hot showers, or certain products can be the cause.  A moisturizing shampoo and leave-in conditioner can bring relief. 

Ask your barber about products they recommend for your scalp issues.  Dandruff and dry scalp will have different treatment plans and your barber can help find you a quick fix.

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MYTH 3  You should use Vaseline to moisturize your scalp.

​Moisturizing with Vaseline is a myth we’ve heard for a long time!  There is no moisturizing benefit from the Vaseline itself to the scalp.  As a barrier, it is thought that Vaseline can trap moisture, retaining moisture on the scalp however it provides no long-term benefits. In fact, sometimes using Vaseline can smother the scalp and cause flaking.  It’s best to use a water-based moisturizer or oil for your scalp.

MYTH 4  Cutting a baby's hair will change the texture!

My favorite myth is that cutting a baby’s hair will change the texture.  A haircut will not, and cannot, alter hair texture.  Hair is dead, and a haircut doesn’t do anything to the scalp to change the pattern of the hair.
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The ends of a baby’s hair are very fine.  After the first cut, the ends will be blunt and look thicker.  As a baby grows, their hair changes naturally.  Whatever changes in texture will happen regardless of the haircut.

Check out this neat article from Little Martin's Drawer for all things related to your baby's haircare.  This article from SmootiePie gives a great explanation of how your baby's hair develops.

We understand it's hard to let go of long held beliefs. Knowing the truth can help you break old habits because Knowledge makes you Sharp on the Inside. Applying it makes you Sharp on the Outside!