In recent years, male grooming habits have experienced a revolution, with the term “manscaping” fast becoming part of our lexicon.
One of the mainstay procedures in men’s grooming is the shaving of beards. But is there any truth to the old wives’ tale: does shaving your beard make it grow back faster?
Scientists have delved into this topic and have put forward a few theories about how shaving affects beard growth. The fact is, shaving does not make the hair grow back coarser or faster.
Dr. Daniel Belkin, a dermatologist based in New York, explains that beard hair and scalp hair have different growth rates. Whereas scalp hair can take up to six years to reach full growth, the much finer beard hair takes between two weeks and three months. Therefore, when you shave, the appearance of your beard may increase in thickness due to the way the hairs meet the skin.
Shaving does not change the physical characteristics or the rate at which your facial hair grows. It does, however, have an effect on the rate at which you can style your beard; the shorter the hair, the less time it takes to groom it.
Beard maintenance also depends on your age. When you reach full maturity, your beard growth rate may slow due to hormonal changes, according to Dr. Belkin. He adds, “For men in their early twenties, shaving can result in an accelerated growth rate. For men in their thirties and beyond, shaving may have no measurable effect.”
Genetics
The rate of hair growth is largely determined by genetics, according to Dr. Belkin. Your genetics will determine the texture, color, and thickness of your hair, as well as the speed at which it grows.
It is true that some men’s bristles are coarser and darker than others, and the same holds true for the rate of growth. Hereditary factors play the biggest role in this.
Aside from genetics, men should focus on taking care of their skin and facial hair. Regularly moisturizing and using beard oil can help to soften hair, as well as protect against ingrown hairs and sun damage. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep can also contribute to keeping your facial hair in good condition.
Shaving
Shaving itself can have effects on the hair, especially if you do it too often or without taking the necessary precautions. Poor hygiene is the most common cause of acne and ingrown hairs, and improper shaving can cause skin irritation leading to razor bumps.
To reduce the risk of such conditions, it is important to use the correct shaving products and techniques. A sharp razor is preferred over a dull one; it will cut the hair close to the skin, thus preventing ingrown hairs. Always be sure to use a quality shaving cream or gel to help soften the beard and smooth the cutting.
Alternative
If you want something other than shaving, there are a few possible solutions. Instead of shaving, you can trim the hair with electric clippers or a beard trimmer. This allows you to keep your beard short and neat, without having to shave.
You can also use depilatory creams to quickly and painlessly remove the beard. This method works by dissolving the hair, although some of these creams can cause skin irritation and should be used with caution.
Beard Maintenance
You can also try using beard oil, which helps to keep the facial hair soft and prevents split ends. This type of oil also contains vitamins and minerals that can help to promote healthy beard growth.
No matter what type of facial hair you sport, it is important to keep it properly groomed. Doing so will ensure your beard looks its best and will keep it healthy as it grows.
Frequent Shaving
While frequent shaving does not cause your facial hair to grow faster, it can give you an illusion of having an extra-thick beard. This is because each time you shave, the short strands of hair are cut in the same direction, creating a dense layer on top of your skin.
Despite this, shaving does not change the thickness, color, or texture of the hair follicles. Therefore, patchy or thin facial hair can only be resolved by addressing the underlying cause.
Growth Supplements
If you want to increase the speed of your beard growth, then you should pay special attention to your diet. Eating a balanced diet full of leafy greens, fatty fish, and nuts can help to promote healthy beard growth.
You may also want to consider taking a supplement that is specifically designed to help with beard growth. These supplements contain natural ingredients such as biotin, zinc, and vitamin B12, which help to stimulate the production of facial hair and improve its overall health.
Hormones
Alterations in hormone levels can also affect the rate at which your facial hair grows. Testosterone, in particular, is a major factor here. Higher levels of testosterone can result in more facial hair, while lack of testosterone can lead to slower growth.
If you think your testosterone levels are low, then you can take a blood test to find out. If it is confirmed, then you may be prescribed hormone-regulating drugs to help boost your testosterone levels.
Summary
Shaving your beard does not cause it to grow back faster or coarser. The rate at which your facial hair grows is determined by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, and lifestyle. In order to maintain a healthy beard, it is important to practice good grooming habits and to take care of your skin and hair.
