Body Hair

Ok, sort of strange question, but I am just curious.

Now, the hair on my head is constantly growing. If I had never cut it during my 16 years on earth it is safe to assume that it would be quite the sight. But if I were to stop shaving my legs, the hair on them would grow for a while and then stop. So, my question is, why? What genetically causes this?

Thanks for your time.

Cecil Adams on How does body hair know it’s been cut and grow back?