Beneath the Rough Exterior – Does a Beard Enhancer really work?
Beards are not just facial hair, they are a statement. A statement of strength, power and virility – they are an outward signal of a man’s character. In our world of ever-changing fashion and trends, it is little wonder that men of all ages have decided that growing a thicker and fuller beard with the help of products such as enhancers is a must.
But do these enhancers really work? Can they provide the magic ingredient that every man craves – an added boost to their facial hair to make them look more virile and more attractive?
There is no definitive way to answer this question definitively, as everyone will have a different opinion. However, the research available suggests that, yes, when used in conjunction with good grooming practices, beard enhancers can deliver on their promises.
Many natural ingredients, such as aloe, jojoba and castor oil, are included in beard enhancers for their nourishing properties. These ingredients can improve overall facial hair health and stimulate hair follicles. Aloe is known to help repair damaged hair, jojoba can enhance production of natural oils to maintain a healthier, shinier beard, while castor oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties to help prevent beard dandruff.
However, nourishment is not the only factor. For true enhancement, there needs to be growth. Many enhancers contain ingredients designed to encourage beard growth. These can include biotin and other B vitamins, which are crucial for healthy hair growth. Additionally, some enhancers use natural extracts, such as saw palmetto, that can extend the growth phase of the hair follicles, resulting in a fuller beard.
Scientific Research
Whilst we cannot conclusively say that beard enhancers work, there is some scientific research to back-up their claims. One small trial involving 30 participants reported improved facial hair growth and density with regular use of a specific beard enhancement product containing biotin, saw palmetto and other nourishing ingredients.
Additionally, a 2015 placebo-controlled study found evidence that caffeine-based beard creams can promote hair follicle health, specifically in the areas of density, fullness and growth time. Caffeine is well known to both reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth. The results of this study suggest that caffeine-based creams may help improve beard growth.
The Power of belief?
Whilst it is tempting to think that the answer to this question is obvious, science cannot always provide a definitive answer. Beliefs in a particular product can be strong, and the power of suggestion can be difficult to ignore. This can be especially true when it comes to using beard enhancers, as men often look for any way to improve their facial hair.
Such beliefs can also be strengthened by social media, where it is common for users to exaggerate or even fabricate their results with beard enhancement products. Even if an individual has experienced a positive result, it is still subject to the placebo effect – something we must take into consideration.
In reality, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of ‘do beard enhancers work?’ – each individual must make the decision for themselves, based on the facts, as well as their own beliefs and expectations.
Grooming Practices
Whilst beard enhancers may contain special ingredients to stimulate facial hair growth, it is important to remember that the health of the overall facial hair is determined by the grooming practices you engage in.
Trimming, combing and brushing all help to keep your facial hair healthy, while also providing visual definition. Beard enhancers should be viewed as a supplemental product, and should not replace proper grooming.
Moreover, in order to experience the full benefit of using a beard enhancement product, it is important to ensure that you maintain a healthy diet, as certain vitamins and minerals found in certain foods are essential for healthy hair growth.
Modern Culture
Whilst the argument for the effectiveness of beard enhancers has some merit, a recent trend in modern culture has seen the beard become a fashion statement, regardless of the individual’s natural facial hair growth. This is especially true for younger men, who often view facial hair as a way to project machismo.
For some, growing a beard is seen as an expression of non-conformism. For others, it is a way to show off their masculinity, or an attempt to mimic a celebrity or hero figure.
Whilst these trends have seen an increase in the number of men opting to enhance their facial hair with special products, it is important to remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the most important thing to do is to take care of your facial hair, regardless of whether you are trying to grow it out or not.
The Health Debate
Whilst facial hair enhancement products often contain natural ingredients which can help keep the facial hair nourished, there is an ongoing debate about how safe these products are for long-term use.
Certain enhancers are known to contain potentially hazardous chemicals which may cause irritation, nausea or even hair loss. In order to ensure that you are using a safe product, it is essential to read the labels and research the ingredients to ensure that the product is suitable for your skin and hair type.
Whilst there is an argument for the use of enhancers in order to maintain the health of the facial hair, the risk of side effects must be taken into consideration when making the decision to use such products.
Money Matters
Whilst many manufacturers of beard enhancers market their products as ‘affordable’, the reality is that they come with a hefty price tag. For those on a tight budget, it is important to consider the cost of these products in relation to their use.
Do you really need to spend a fortune on beard enhancers? Is it worth it?
The answer will depend on the individual’s financial circumstances and how important it is for them to have the perfect beard. Some products can be more expensive than other alternatives, such as trimming and combing. Therefore, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons before investing in a beard enhancer.
Final Thoughts
The question of whether beard enhancers work or not is open to debate. However, it is clear that if used correctly and in conjunction with proper grooming practices, they can be beneficial in providing nourishment and stimulating the facial hair follicles.
Whilst there is no definitive answer, it is important to remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the perfect beard is personal preference. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a beard enhancer or not comes down to the individual and their own goals and desires.
