Growing facial hair is an exciting milestone in adolescence; a way to demonstrate maturity, independence, and a shift into manhood. While some people can grow a thick and luscious beard at just 17 years of age, others struggle to get even a few moustache hairs on their upper lip. This guide will explore the experts’ advice and tips on growing a beard; why some people can grow a beard at 17 while others can’t; and how to best care for and maintain facial hair.
Reviewing and comparing different beard-growth products can help men find the one that’s best for them. The two most frequently recommended products are minoxidil and biotin. Minoxidil is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure, but it can stimulate facial-hair growth in men when applied to the skin. Biotin, on the other hand, is a vitamin B supplement known to aid in maintaining healthy, strong hair, skin, and nails. Additionally, some men have used topical special solutions containing Chinese herbs, as well as taking certain natural supplements such as omega-3s, herbs, and minerals, to promote beard growth. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that the effectiveness of these products and techniques may vary greatly between individuals.
It’s also important to bear in mind that growing a beard at 17 can sometimes be blocked by medical conditions. An hormones assessment and colonoscopy, for instance, could be necessary to see if other factors are at work and to understand why a person may be unable to grow facial hair. Additionally, personal health should be taken into careful consideration when growing and maintaining a beard. Facial hair is a part of the skin and the underlying tissue, so daily healthy-skin-care routines should be kept up, including the use of moisturizing lotions, face washes, and exfoliation.
Choose the Right Trim
Once facial hair does start to appear, it’s important to choose the right trim for the look. A professional trim should be considered when starting a beard, as it helps create the desired shape and is much less risky than a DIY approach. Knowing the face shape and hair type can also be beneficial, as this helps with finding the right style. Men with round face shapes tend to benefit from beards that are trimmed round, while those with long faces should go for square beards.
Of course, there is no shortage of celebrity inspiration when it comes to facial hair – and some celebrities have been known to grow their beards quickly. Examining a person’s celebrity lookalikes can be an effective way of finding the right trim and growing technique. For example, if Chris Hemsworth’s look is desired, then an appropriate trim and length to achieve this should be chosen.
Esstential Grooming
Once the desired trim and style has been achieved its ‘essential’ grooming that follows. Applying beard oil and balm, regardless of the thickness and length of the growth, helps protect, hydrate, and style facial hair. Specialty beard combs and brushes also come in handy, as they enable the user to evenly distribute the oils and products, as well as remove tangles and knots. Washing the beard with shampoo and not too hot water is also important for keeping it healthy and looking neat.
Caring for Unruly Beards
Some beard-growth techniques can cause unruliness, which can make it difficult to keep facial hair neat and tidied. Even when the desired length is achieved, unruliness can still occur. To tackle this issue, there are a few steps that can be taken. First of all, try not to over-brush: brushing the beard can cause split ends which, in turn, make it look unkempt. Brushing once the beard is completely dry is also important. Applying shine and moisturizing oils can increase the manageability and make styling much easier. Additionally, applying a non-toxic face mask once per week helps reduce excess breakouts or ingrown hairs. >
Mustache Maintenance
The mustache area is usually the first area affected by facial-hair growth, as this is the region of least resistance. Keeping the area groomed and waxed, to allow a person’s style of choice, is important. Maintaining it requires regular waxing or trimming, depending on the desired style. Applying specialty waxes to the mustache area can also help keep it healthy and under control. However, using waxes that contain chemicals should be avoided.
Growing a Beard After 17
In general, men continue to grow more facial hair until their mid-30s, with peak growth typically occurring between 25 and 35 years of age. However, those that are still unable to grow a beard at an older age may be dealing with a deeper-rooted hormonal imbalance. In such cases, an endocrinologist may be consulted to determine whether an underlying condition needs to be addressed. Typically, such issues can be managed with hormone therapy and other lifestyle changes.
Conclusion
Growing a beard is a major milestone in life, as it not only has physical implications but also showcases a man’s transition into adulthood. While some are fortunate to grow a thick and luscious beard at 17, others have to wait until later in life or seek medical help. By understanding the tips and techniques of successful beard-growing and mustache maintenance, genetic factors, and potential medical conditions, all men can have the beard of their dreams.
