Despite its long association with horticulture and folklore, many people wonder what benefit garlic actually offers to those who consume it. One appealing theory is that garlic could have the potential to help grow facial hair. The general consensus is that garlic contains sulfur and this is why it is believed to help bring in more nutrients to the hair follicles, theoretically resulting in better beard growth.
Before jumping onto this band wagon, we should consider the fact that whilst garlic contains sulfur, its concentrations are not necessarily high enough to realistically affect hair growth in any significant way. Dr. Joshua Fox, a board-certified Dermatologist, states that “it is more likely that an individual would receive the actual benefits of garlic for a variety of other health challenges, as opposed to its effects on beard growth”. Fox further suggests that the higher concentrations of sulfur, which are necessary for the rate of beard growth, can be found in other compounds and products instead.
That being said, garlic still has its positive aspects that should be considered. Many studies have indicated that garlic is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, some of which being incredibly beneficial for skin and hair. For example, garlic is a great source of vitamin C which can help with collagen production, and vitamin B6, which helps regulate hormone function. Additionally, garlic is rich in copper, a micronutrient that can stimulate melanin production and potentially result in facial hair that is stronger, fuller and blacker in color.
All in all, while garlic itself may not drastically improve facial hair growth, it is certainly not without some of its natural benefits. If you are looking to bolster your beard then you should look to incorporate iron and zinc, foods and products that are naturally packed with protein such as eggs, nuts and more, and even consider an all-natural product specifically formulated to help stimulate facial hair.
Natural Herbs for Beard Growth
Natural herbs can encourage thick and healthy facial hair growth. Thyme, Rosemary, and Horsetail are some of the most popular herbs used to encourage fuller and thicker beards. These herbs contain a variety of nutrients, such as magnesium and zinc, that can help nourish the existing facial hair and stimulate the growth of new facial hair.
Thyme is often used in hair growth treatments due to its antioxidant-rich nature, ability to reduce inflammation and its high mineral content. Thyme is also said to promote natural shine and thicken existing hair. Rosemary, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids that are known to promote cellular regeneration and circulation in the skin.
Horsetail, when applied topically, is thought to help improve the strength, density and growth of hair strands due to its silicon content. Additionally, Horsetail helps unclog blocked hair follicles and provide essential minerals to nourish the hair follicles.
Healthy Diet
It goes without saying that diet plays a key role in hair growth. Eating a diet that is rich in proteins, Vitamin B, biotin, beta carotene, and omega-3s can provide the hair with all the essential nutrients required for healthy growth.
Foods such as salmon, eggs, nuts, olive oil, dark green vegetables, and avocados can provide your facial hair with the necessary vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. Additionally, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help the body build new cells and preserve healthy levels of testosterone, both of which are important for hair growth.
Incorporating such healthy foods into your diet is a great way to nourish existing facial hair and speed up growth. However, it is important to note that age, genetics and other factors also play a role in the rate of facial hair growth.
Supplements for Beard Growth
Despite popular belief, the use of supplements can help promote the growth of facial hair. Many natural supplements can help nourish facial hair and stimulate growth by providing the body with essential vitamins and minerals.
Often, natural ingredients like Saw Palmetto, Mucuna Pruriens, and Zinc can help give your facial hair the necessary nutrients to grow in thick, healthy and consistent. Additionally, biotin is one of the most popular supplements that many people use to improve their hair and skin. Biotin helps to create keratin, a protein component of the skin and hair that helps to strengthen the hair follicles which in turn helps to promote faster hair growth.
When it comes to supplements, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional in order to find out which supplements would be the most beneficial for you. Additionally, it is important to research the ingredients in order to make sure that you are taking supplements that are safe, natural and clinically proven.
Lifestyle Habits for Beard Growth
In addition to a healthy diet and natural herbs, there are various lifestyle habits that one can adopt to improve facial hair growth. Avoiding the consumption of alcohol, smoking, and unhealthy foods can help increase blood circulation which is necessary for nourishing the skin and increasing the strength of the hair follicles.
When it comes to sleeping, it is important to have enough sleep in order to maintain adequate testosterone levels needed for healthy beard growth. Stress should also be managed and reduced as stress is linked to a decrease in testosterone production. Moreover, controlling your hormones will help regulate facial hair growth, and regular exercise can help ensure that the body is producing sufficient testosterone.
When it comes to washing the facial hair, it is important to use a shampoo that is specifically formulated for facial hair. These shampoos can help promote the healthy growth of facial hair, as well as make sure that no dirt or bacteria accumulates on the skin. Additionally, applying a good beard oil on the facial hair can help make sure that the hair follicles are hydrated and nourished.
Vitamin and Mineral Intake for Beard Growth
Vitamins and minerals are vital for the growth of a healthy and thick beard. Vitamin A helps the skin produce sebum, a natural oil that moisturises and keeps the beard and skin healthy. Vitamin B is responsible for the nourishment of the hair follicles, which is vital for hair growth. Vitamin C helps maintain the production of collagen, which is required for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. Vitamin E helps maintain the colour of hair and protect the hair follicles. Finally, zinc helps reduce inflammation and regenerate skin cells, which also leads to faster hair growth.
Overall, if we wish to maintain a healthy beard then we should include a plethora of vitamins and minerals in our diets. Proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, B, C and E, as well as minerals like iron, and zinc, are all essential for healthy hair growth. Additionally, natural herbs, supplementation and lifestyle habits should also be included as part of a healthy regime for optimal facial hair.
