How to Tell Whether Your Hair Is Growing Back

When you don't want your hair to grow, it seems to sprout up overnight. When you're looking for it to grow back, waiting feels like an eternity. Excess shedding creates sparse patches of hair on the head. Body hair is a bit different -- the waiting game usually takes place between waxing sessions, as hair needs to be at least 1/4-inch long for a smooth finish. Do a spot check between brushing your teeth and tackling skincare each morning, to find out if your hair is growing back.

Brush your hair from roots to tips to smooth it out, and get a clear view of the growth pattern. Part it as you normally would, using a natural-bristle brush to avoid causing excess breakage.

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Hold a mirror up in front of the area in question. Look for hair that sticks straight up or straight out in front of you. New growth tends to be coarse and does not lay flat as broken ends do 1. If the hair is on the back of your head, stand with your back to a large mirror and hold a handheld mirror in front of you, angling it until you have a clear view.

Position your hand under the section, and slowly movie it over the skin in the opposite direction of hair growth. New hair will feel like stubble against your skin. Hair on the head grows downward, while hair on the legs and other areas can grow in varying directions. Examine other hair on the area first to know which way to swipe your hand.

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Look at your brush after each use, and the water as you rinse your hair in the shower. Less fallout than usual means that your hair is not shedding and is in the process of regrowth.

Tips

If you're experiencing excessive hair loss or lack of growth, visit your doctor to discuss potential causes and treatment.

Avoid tight hair elastics as they put tension on the follicle and lead to fallout. Choose a cotton, metal-free elastic when necessary.