* Hair Growth Happens at the Root: Hair growth occurs at the hair follicle, which is located beneath the skin. Cutting or shaving only affects the hair shaft that's already emerged from the skin. It has no impact on the activity or speed of the follicle.
* Perception: After cutting or shaving, the hair may *appear* to grow faster because you're seeing the new, undamaged hair emerge. In the case of curly hair, when you cut it, it can appear shorter and therefore seem to grow faster as the curls bounce back. Shorter hairs also stand up more and appear thicker than long, weighed-down hair. Additionally, the blunt edge of newly cut hair can feel coarser, giving the impression of faster or thicker growth.
* Genetics and Health: Hair growth rate is primarily determined by genetics, hormones, and overall health. Factors like diet, stress levels, and medical conditions can influence hair growth, but cutting or shaving won't change your underlying genetic predisposition.
In summary, cutting or shaving hair is a cosmetic change that affects the appearance and feel of the hair shaft, but it has no effect on the rate of hair growth at the follicle level.