Growing a beard is becoming increasingly popular, and so is the folk-wisdom that shaving your beard can make it thicker, fuller, and more luxuriant. But is this true? Can you actually make a beard thicker, and fuller, by shaving?
There’s no scientific evidence that shaving your beard results in a thicker, fuller beard. In fact, the opposite can happen. When you shave your beard, the hair follicles can become damaged, which affects the health of the beard. A damaged follicle will produce a weaker hair, which can eventually stop growing. It is also possible to experience folliculitis, an irritation of the skin caused by shaving. This can result in itching, redness, and swelling.
However, if you let your beard grow for a certain amount of time without shaving it, allowing it to reach its full potential, it can appear thicker and fuller.
According to Dr. Adam Friedman, a board-certified dermatologist, there’s “absolutely no scientific evidence to suggest shaving ‘increases’ the rate of hair growth or makes facial hair thicker.” He added that it’s likely a “placebo effect” and that people might think it looks thicker because the individual hairs are darker and tapered near the ends.
It’s possible that after shaving, the hairs look slightly darker, but in reality they neither get thicker nor fuller. Shaving can also make your beard seem more refreshed as it removes dead skin cells and gives your face a neat and tidy look.
When growing a beard, it is important to know that some men are genetically predisposed to have a thicker beard than others. For those men, no amount of shaving will make their beard any thicker. It is best to determine the type of beard you have and then follow the appropriate grooming routine for your facial hair.
Nevertheless, men who don’t have a consistently thicker-growing beard shouldn’t despair. Many of them are still able to grow full, thick beards with the right techniques and regular care. A key to achieving the desired beard is to use a high-quality trimmer and to keep it well maintained. A good trimmer will provide a cleaner and sharper trimming experience that helps to accentuate the beard and make it look fuller.
One of the most important rules is to try and avoid a one-length trim. Hair should be longer on the bottom and shorter near the cheeks and the neckline. It creates a fuller look and makes the beard appear thicker. Men should also be aware of over-trimming as it can thin out their beard unintentionally.
Beard Shampoo and Conditioner
Besides using a trimmer, it is important to use the right shampoo and conditioner for the beard. It cleanses the skin beneath, prevents irritated and flaky skin, and helps with better hair growth. It’s also sometimes useful to use a beard oil or beard balm prior to trimming.
Regular use of conditioner can stimulate healthy facial hair growth, resulting in a healthier, thicker beard. Conditioner also helps keep the hair nourished and hydrated, prevents detangling, and keeps the beard looking softer and fuller.
Using Supplements
Supplements such as biotin or B-complex vitamins, both of which are necessary for the creation of new hair, can be beneficial for growing a thick, fuller beard. Though it should be remembered that while they may help in the thickness and health of a beard, they cannot guarantee immediate results.
Other vitamins and supplements that are beneficial for beard growth include Vitamin E, Vitamin A, fish oil and iron. Natural fruit juices, especially those containing Vitamin C, have also been known to help stimulate beard growth.
Beard Patience is Key
Patience is key when it comes to growing a thicker beard. Allow your beard to grow for at least a month before you start trimming it. Stick to a regular grooming routine and avoid using harsh chemicals or creams that can damage your facial hair. The best way to promote thicker beard growth is to understand, hydrate, and nourish all of your facial hairs. It takes time for the hair follicles to produce thicker and longer hair and for them to transform a patchy mane into a neat and natural full-faced beard.
Conclusion
Though there isn’t any scientific evidence suggesting that shaving will make facial hair thicker, it’s still possible to grow a full and healthy beard with the right approach and tools. Keep in mind that it may take some time before you experience noticeable results. And even if you are genetically predisposed to have a thinner beard, there are supplements and other natural remedies that can help you with the growth process.
