The Anatomy of Beard Hair
Beard hair is technically a type of body hair, growing from the same follicles within the skin, and is often associated with the social and cultural practices of manhood and masculinity. While some individuals have patches of beard hair naturally, others need to grow out what they have to achieve a full, dense, and desirable beard. The average man shaves approximately 11,000 times in his lifetime, which can be tedious and time consuming. So, the question that arises is whether regularly shaving leads to thicker, more conditioned beard growth?
Does Shaving Cause Beard Growth?
At first glance it makes sense that shaving can promote more beard growth, as cutting the tips of the hair gives way to new folliclesbelow the surface of the skin. This, however, is not what actually occurs.According to Dr David Yi, founder of Groom and Vanity, “there is no scientific proof that shaving more often results in a thicker or fuller beard.”
This is because shaving affects only the tip of the hair, not the root or follicle.The act of cutting does not change the rate or pattern of beard growth, as this is determined genetically. Therefore, factors such as age, hormones, and genetics are the primary influencers on growing a thick and full beard, so it is important to recognize and accept this before attempting to reshape or style it.
Optimal Ways to Improve Beard Health and Growth
Although daily shaving is not known to accelerate beard growth, it is important to maintain beard hygiene and use the right tools and products. Dr David Yi recommends a regime that involves shampoo and conditioner “to prevent the risk of beard dandruff, beard itch, and inflammation.” Regular cleansing and conditioning acts as a deep cleanse, while additional products such as oils, balms, and waxes help to shape and style the beard.These products can also benefit those with naturally thin, patchy, and slow-growing beards, as they can reduce itchiness and stimulate follicles.
Efficacy of Supplements
Certain vitamins and supplements may also contribute to improved beard growth through increased collagen production. However, this is only effective when taking recommended dosages. Excess iron has been linked to hair loss in certain cases, so it is best to consult a physician or dietician before beginning a supplement regime.It is also advised to add items such as whole grains, dairy, veggies, and fruits to the diet for improved beard health.
Beard transplantation is an option for those seeking an immediate improvement in growth, however it comes with a hefty price-tag and is rarely performed outside of medical cases requiring facial hair restitution.
Effects of Hormones and Age on Beard Skin
For adolescent males, it is a matter of time until facial hair becomes distinguishable. Increased testosterone levels from puberty to certain ages cause the emergence of beard hairs and activatethe dormant follicles beneath the skin.This is an occasion where shaving has no effect. Ageing may also cause thinning of beard hair as the scalp contains finer strands quicker than the face does; however,anti-aging treatments may slow this process.
Fat Injections to Increase Beard Volume
Fat injection is a procedure in which fat cells are injected into the skin in order to create volume.In recent years, this has been predominantly used by some men seeking to improve their beard hair density. According to a report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this requires a specialised process and may take multiple injections to get the desired results.Although the procedure is known to produce fuller beards, its long-term effects are yet to be discovered.
Does Shaving Make Facial Hair Grow Back Thicker?
No. Regular shaving does not lead to thicker or fuller beard growth and does not stimulate hair follicles. Rather, factors such as age, hormones, and genetics are primarily responsible for thickness and density of facial hair. Improving beard hygiene, using the right products, and adding certain vitamins and minerals to the diet may contribute to stronger and fuller-looking beards. Fat injection, although a potential option to increase volume, is a costly procedure and has not to been fully tested for its long-term effects. As such, it is best to accept and adjust to natural hair growth patterns.
