Is this true?

I am 17 years old and am going to turn 18 soon. My insecurity is my facial hair, especially around the upper part of my lips, which makes it look like a slight moustache.

Now the thing is, I want to shave my facial and neck hair so that I have a smoother base for skincare and makeup. But so many people around me, especially my mom, say that once you shave your facial hair, they grow back thicker. Is this true? As this is the only thing holding me back. For clarity, I am South Asian, specifically from Bangladesh.

Would really love all your advice and guidance and better options on this matter!

Thank you in advance!