Introduction
When it comes to grooming a beard, there is a lot of advice and opinion out there. One of the most debated topics is if brushing helps a beard to grow. Does brushing facilitate the beard-growth process? Is there a certain rhythm or pattern to adopt when brushing? Is it safe enough or might brushing damage or weaken the hair?
Natural Hair Care Routines
The most straightforward way of keeping both a healthy scalp and facial hair is to adopt a few basic hygienic habits. These include regular cleaning, rowing, styling and brushing. An essential step in the grooming routine is to use a soft-bristled brush to shape and condition the beard, to get rid of debris and dirt and to evenly distribute the beard’s natural oils. Doing so will help to condition, soften and add shine to the beard.
Brushing for Beard Growth
Brushing helps the blood circulation beneath the skin surface and therefore helps the follicles to open up and remain unclogged. If a clogged follicle persists, it can lead to an ingrown hair, which could cause discomfort and itchiness. Brushing can also stimulate the hair follicles, which then produce other hormones that facilitate the production of facial hair.
Recent studies have also determined that brushing the beard helps to restore the balance of the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for the production of natural oils and proteins. This moisturizing effect may also foster hair growth.
The Right Brush
Before using a brush in the beard, one should ensure that it is the right one. Brushes can be made out of a variety of materials, such as boar bristle, plastic and synthetic fibers. The most common is a boar bristle brush since it is gentle on the facial hair, as well as being durable and easy to use.
In order to effectively brush the beard, it is of great importance to choose the brush with the correct knot and bristles’ size. For example, if the brush is too large, it might over-stimulate the follicles, causing discomfort or itchiness. On the contrary, if the bristles are too stiff, some areas of the beard could be missed.
Brushing Technique
The proper brushing technique is just as important as selecting the right brush. The hair should be combed and brushed in the direction it grows, which generally is downwards. For this, a wide-tooth comb can be used first, as it offers a gentler approach. Once the hair is detangled, a round-head brush can be used in circular motions, starting from the tips of the hair and brushing from the outside towards the chin.
Risks Associated With Brushing
While regular brushing can stimulate beard growth and keep the facial skin healthy, it is important to note that over-brushing can cause the hair to weaken, or associate conditions such as skin irritation, or beardruff and ingrown hairs. Therefore, it important to brush carefully. Additionally, it is important to use natural products, with no chemical substances, to wash and condition the beard regularly.
Alternative Hair Growth Products
Apart from brushing, there other products that promise to stimulate hair growth. Beneficial ingredients such as jojoba oil and argan oil may lead to stronger, softer and thicker facial hair. Other substances, such as biotin and vitamin supplements, have also proven to help promote beard growth.
Variation in Genes
At the end of the day, a strong genetic influence is determinant in beard growth. Even if some hair-growth products may add a ton of vitamins and minerals to the skin and hair follicles, the genes are ultimately responsible for stimulating the growth.
Limitations of Hygiene Routine
Regular cleaning, washing, trimming and brushing a beard, as mentioned before, is essential for maintaining its shape and healthy appearance. However, despite its importance, even the best hygiene routine cannot prescribe proper nutrition, rest or vitamins, which are equally necessary for long, strong and healthy facial hair.
Regularity in Routines
In order to maximize its efficiency, a good beard-care routine should be done regularly. This includes using specific products according to the facial hair’s needs, these being either softening or nourishing. This approach should be taken regardless of the rate of beard growth.
Diet and Nutrition
What one eats also plays a major role when it comes to the quality and quantity of facial hair. Eating healthy and balanced diet should be a priority, as well as supplementing it with protein, vitamins and minerals through tablets and tablets.
Getting Enough Sleep
Finally, it is worth noting that a proper amount of good-quality sleep is essential for the body’s functions. Sleep helps secrete testosterone, which then is utilized for hair growth. Growers should establish a sleep routine of at least 8 hours a day to promote beard growth.
