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Why Does My Leg Hair Grow So Fast? | 4 Main Reasons

Did you know that the longest hair witnessed in a female measured 5.4 inches? Having such long leg hair is considered fancy. Most females prefer a smooth leg surface that sells out their beauty. However, leg hair can be disappointing, especially if it grows fast.

This can be challenging to control, leaving you stressed with long hair, which you need to shave constantly. This guide will analyze the reasons for fast hair growth, how to reduce fast hair growth and a step-by-step guide on shaving your leg hair. 

Why Does My Leg Hair Grow So Fast? 

High growth rate of your leg hair can be irritating. This high rate forces you to schedule extra shaving sessions to maintain the low height of the hair. Below are 4 reasons your leg hair grows so fast.

1. Genes

Every individual’s genetic complexity is considered to support an average of 100,000 hair follicles per person. This number can vary as different humans show different levels of gene complexity. This is a major factor in determining the different hair growth rates. 

People have high, moderate or low leg lair growth based on their genetic composition. Unfortunately, you can barely change your genes, which forces one to embrace long-leg hair and identify ways to manage it.

Read Next: How Fast Does Hair Grow?

2. High Stress Levels

When you experience high stress levels, the body automatically increases the adrenaline level. This can increase the levels of testosterone and estrogen hormones. These two hormones act as a facilitator of hair growth. 

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, one experiences an increase in the production of progesterone and estrogen. The two hormones enhance the baby’s normal growth and development. The hormones can also increase the hair growth rate. 

4. Hormonal Changes During Growth

An individual is expected to have higher hair growth rates during puberty. This is from the increased hormones produced during this period. The body produces higher levels of estrogen and androgen, facilitating a higher leg hair growth rate. 

How to Reduce Your Leg Hair Growth

Woman having wax applied to her leg to reduce the amount of hair growth

Parilov/Shutterstock

If your leg hair grows fast, shaving can be tedious as the hair reappears a few days after shaving. Luckily, there are other methods you can enforce to have a lower leg hair growth rate. Here are a few ways you can mitigate high levels of leg hair growth:

Castor Oil Packs

Castor oil is said to work as a natural hair inhibitor when used topically. You can make a castor oil pack by soaking a cloth in castor oil and applying it to your legs for 30 minutes. Doing this once a week is supposed to slow down hair growth.

Waxing

Waxing pulls the hair out from the root, so it takes longer for the hair to grow back. If you don’t mind a little pain, waxing is an effective way to slow hair growth.

Read Next: How Long Does Hair Have to Be to Wax?

Epilating

Epilating is similar to waxing; it also pulls the hair out from the root. However, epilating uses a device with spinning heads that grab the hair instead of wax.

Hair Removal Creams

Hair removal creams work by dissolving the hair shaft. This method is less painful than waxing and epilating, but it may not be as effective in slowing hair growth.

Read Next: The 7 Best Hair Removal Creams in 2024

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to damage the hair follicle so it can no longer produce hair. This is a more expensive option, but it can be permanent.

There are ways to slow down the growth rate if you’re dealing with fast-growing leg hair. Try one of the methods above to have less hair to deal with in the future.

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How to Effectively Shave Your Leg Hair

Woman in a shower shaving her legs for a piece on why does leg hair grow so fast

Dr. Pixel/Shutterstock

Following the correct procedures when shaving is very crucial. This can minimize the risks of injuries and ensure quality outcomes. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to shave your leg hair and get the best results:

1. Prepare All Shaving Tools

Individuals mostly ignore this first step as it seems too obvious. Having all the items you need can save you time and ensure quality results. 

2. Skin Preparation 

This step is crucial as it can prevent razor burns, skin irritation, and other side effects. The right skin preparation method will depend on your shaving tools and skin condition.

If you’re using a manual razor, you’ll need to wet your skin and hair with warm water to soften it. Then, apply shaving cream or gel to lubricate the area further.

3. Start Shaving

Start by shaving in the direction of hair growth to avoid irritation. Once you’ve gone over the entire area, go over it again in the opposite direction to get a closer shave.

Don’t press too hard on the razor, as this can cause nicks and cuts. Instead, let the razor do the work. If you’re using shaving cream, you’ll need to rinse it off periodically to check your progress.

4. Rinse Off

Once you’re done shaving, rinse your legs with cold water to remove any hair or shaving cream residue. Pat your skin dry with a towel.

5. Apply Moisturizer

This step is important as it can help soothe your skin and prevent razor burn. Look for a moisturizer that’s designed for sensitive skin. Apply it to your legs and massage it in until it’s absorbed.

Frequently Asked Questions

As an image for a guide on why does your leg hair grow so fast, several women lying on a bed holding their legs in the air

Fizkes/Shutterstock

Below are the most frequently asked questions people have about why their leg hair grows so fast. 

Does Shaving Increase The Rate of Hair Growth?

No, shaving your hair does not affect the rate of growth. This is just a myth that has been held up in society for too long. The rate of growth is affected by factors.

Is There a Specific Way to Shave My Leg Hair?

No, there is no specific way to shave your leg hair. Just follow the steps in the guide above, and you’ll be good to go.

What Are the Risks of Shaving My Leg Hair?

Shaving your leg hair risks include razor burn, ingrown hairs, and skin irritation. To avoid these side effects, follow the steps in the guide above. With these steps, you can shave your leg hair correctly and get the best results possible. Just remember to take your time and be careful to avoid any accidents.

Can I Completely Stop Growth of Leg Hair?

No, you can not completely stop the growth of leg hair. This is because the process is genetically enhanced. You can only increase the periods taken for growth or reduce the amount of hair grown.

Does Shaving Other Hairs in My Body Affect the Rate of Leg Hair Growth?

Definitely not. Shaving other parts of the body does not affect the rate of leg hair growth.

Is It a Must for Me to Shave My Leg Hair Regularly?

No, You are not mandated to shave off your leg hair regularly. How often you shave is dependent on your preferred level of leg hair. If you experience a high hair growth rate and prefer the leg hair to be at minimal levels, you will be required to take on regular shaving.

So, Why Does Your Leg Hair Grow So Fast?

People have different preferences on the height of their leg hair. This also brings up the different preferences on the method to use for reducing hair size. While some people use wax, others use laser burning or normal shaving. However, the results are not entirely different. 

If you experience a high rate of leg hair growth, it is crucial to use gentle shaving methods. This can help reduce irritation and risks of bodily harm. You can also utilize methods that naturally reduce the rate of leg hair growth. Happy grooming!