Introduction
Shaving your beard can be a big decision, as facial hair can be a source of pride and confidence. Some men may worry that shaving their beard may make hair growth thicker and more intense once it grows back. But the truth is, shaving your beard doesn’t affect the rate of hair growth or the texture of your hair, and won’t make it come back thicker or fuller. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the science behind shaving your beard and explore hair growth and thickness in more detail.
Biology of Hair Growth
Before we go any further, it’s important to understand the science behind hair growth. Human hair is mainly composed of a protein called keratin, and is attached to follicles in the skin. These follicles come in different shapes, sizes, and textures and can be affected by hormones, genetics, nutrition, and other factors. Once a follicle begins growing hair, which can start as early as the age of 16 and last until the age of 60, the rate of hair growth is determined by the individual and is usually between 0.35 and 0.45 millimeters per day.
Does Shaving Change Hair Thickness?
Hair thickness is determined by the follicle—not whether or not it is shaved. When a beard is shaved, the hair may feel coarser or thicker upon regrowth because the ends of the hair strands have been cut off. However, this effect is usually temporary and only lasts until the hair has time to regrow. Shaving can even out facial hair, making it seem thicker, but it does not actually affect the thickness of the hair or the rate of its growth.
Factors That Affect Hair Growth and Thickness
Although shaving does not affect hair growth or thickness, there are several other factors that can. Genetics are the most important factor when it comes to hair growth and thickness, but nutrition, hormones, and certain medications can also play a role. Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help stimulate hair growth and provide the roots of your hair with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong. Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause, can also affect hair growth and thickness. Consult with a doctor if you’re experiencing abnormal hair changes or if you are taking medications that can affect hair growth and thickness.
How to Maintain Your Beard
Though shaving does not affect the growth or thickness of your beard, there are still a few things you can do to maintain your facial hair. Keeping your beard clean and well-conditioned is one of the most important steps in maintaining a healthy beard. Washing your beard regularly with shampoo and conditioner will help keep it looking clean and soft, and adding a bit of beard oil or balm can help moisturize your skin and hair. Regular trimming is also important, as it will help keep your beard looking neat, and can help reduce split ends and tangles.
Benefits of Shaving your Beard
Though shaving does not make your beard grow back thicker, there are still some benefits to removing facial hair. Cleaning up your beard can help give it a sharp look and can make it easier to apply grooming products. It can also be a great way to mix up your look, and give yourself a fresh start.
Health Benefits of Growing a Beard
Though shaving may not make your beard grow back thicker, there are still plenty of benefits to growing a beard. Facial hair can help keep your skin warm and reduce the incidence of skin irritations and sunburn. Growing a beard can also help reduce allergens such as dust and pollen, as these particles can get trapped in your beard, away from your skin. Additionally, it can help protect your face from dirt and other environmental pollutants.
How to Grow a Thicker Beard
If you’re looking to grow a thicker beard, genetics will ultimately be the deciding factor. But eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and using beard oil and balm can also help. Make sure you’re drinking enough water and getting enough rest, as these too can help stimulate hair growth. Lastly, give it time! Allowing your beard to grow can take patience, but it’s worth it in the end.
Hair Growth Products
There are plenty of products available on the market that promise to stimulate hair growth and thicken your beard. These products may contain ingredients such as minoxidil or biotin, and may work for some people. However, it’s important to remember that your genetics will always be the main factor when it comes to hair growth and thickness, and no product can truly guarantee thicker hair. If you’re worried about hair growth, talk to your doctor and see if any treatments may be an option for you.
Hair Loss Prevention
One of the best ways to prevent hair loss is to take preventative measures. Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise can help promote hair growth, as can avoiding certain environmental factors, such as smoking and overexposure to direct sunlight. Additionally, reducing stress in your life can help reduce hair loss, and scalp massage can help stimulate the scalp and encourage healthy hair growth.
Hair Transplant
If hair loss is severe, a hair transplant may be an option. This procedure commonly takes up to 8 hours, and involves surgically removing healthy hair from one part of your body and transplanting it onto the scalp. This can help restore the appearance of your hair, but it is important to understand that hair transplanted from other parts of your body will not necessarily match the texture or thickness of the original hair.
