Background Information
The idea that shaving your facial hair will make it grow back thicker and darker is a myth. This is because shaving your beard does not change the thickness or color of hair follicles or the rate of hair growth. Shaving will only have an effect on the length of the beard and not its thickness nor any other physiological aspects, such as color and texture.
Relevant Data & Perspectives from Experts
Studies conducted and published in the medical journal ‘Dermatologic Surgery’ have confirmed this, with the results indicating that daily shaving of facial hair results in a smaller average hair diameter and no change in average hair density. Furthermore, experts have also suggested that daily shaving may even lead to the decrease of beard density due to the fact that the hair follicles are being weakened.
Own Insights & Analysis
It is clear that daily shaving of facial hair will not cause it to grow back thicker, darker or faster. However, as all human beings are different, it is possible that shaving may have an effect on some people. It is also possible that regular and consistent shaving may lead to hairs becoming more resilient, resulting in a denser beard than the average person who does not shave daily.
Behavioural Effects
The psychological idea of “self-fulfilling prophecy” may lead to the belief that shaving daily will encourage facial hair growth and make the beard denser. While this ultimately has no effect on the physical nature of the beard, the perceived psychological effects of the behaviour may lead to more confidence and less anxiety surrounding the appearance of the individual, which can in itself be beneficial.
Dietary Effects
Dietary habits can have a significant impact on the health of facial hair, with foods such as nuts, fish, poultry and fruit, as well as supplements such as fish oil, zinc, and vitamin A, B and D all contributing to the promotion of healthy and dense facial hair growth. As a result, a balanced and varied diet can lead to thicker and healthier hair growth.
Tips For Encouraging Facial Hair Growth
While shaving daily will not make facial hair thicker, there are a number of tips that can be followed in order to encourage healthy and strong facial hairs. Firstly, try to avoid frequent washing, instead focusing on cleaning the area and then allowing it to settle. Secondly, exfoliating with a scrub and using a beard trimmer will help remove dead skin cells and avoid split ends. Thirdly, using natural oils such as coconut, olive and jojoba oil can help keep the beard healthy and hydrated.
Physical Effects of Shaving Everyday
Those who regularly shave their facial hair may find that the skin becomes dry and irritated. This is because shaving removes the top layers of the skin, leading to dryness and sensitivity. As such, it is important to use a moisturising beard balm after shaving in order to reduce any inflammation and provide the skin with the correct balance of moisture.
Selection of Products
When looking for products to help promote facial hair growth and health, it is important to consider those that are specifically designed for facial hair, such as beard balms and oils. Selecting products made from natural ingredients is often preferable, as these are less likely to cause any irritation to the skin. It is also important to select products that are suitable for the individual’s specific skin type.
Risks of Over-Styling
Regular styling of facial hair, such as curling, straightening and colouring, can be damaging to the hair follicles and the skin beneath. This is because excessive heat and products used in the styling process can weaken the hairs and leave them prone to breaking and splitting. As a result, it is important to only use products and tools that are specifically designed for facial hair styling.
Patience & Diligence
It is also important to remember that facial hair growth does not happen overnight, but instead requires patience and dedication. Achieving a healthy, dense and strong beard involves consistent trimming and weekly washing, as well as paying attention to dietary needs and avoiding over-styling the hair. Additionally, regular exfoliation and moisturising is necessary in order to keep the skin healthy and reduce any inflammation caused by shaving.
