Beards have been popular around the world for thousands of years, but recently their popularity has been on the rise. The trend of men growing a beard has been growing along with the trend of hygiene and cleanliness. But how dirty is a beard really?
It’s a known fact that beards can contain a range of bacteria, including Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium. Research conducted by York University in 2015 found that growing a beard increases one’s exposure to these bacteria. In addition to these two, beard hairs can also contain other microbes, including Enterococcus, Streptococcus, yeast, and Fungi. While these bacteria are generally harmless, it’s still important to keep them in check.
Moreover, a beard can collect all sorts of debris. Dust and dandruff can stick in the hairs and accumulate over time. With facial hair surrounded by skin and sweat, there’s an increased chance of breakouts of blackheads, spots, and other uncomfortable skin conditions.
In order to combat this, experts say it’s important to properly maintain and clean your beard. The best way to do this is to regularly shampoo, condition, and brush the beard. Depending on the individual’s needs, shampoos, conditioners, and specialty products can also be used.
Another way to keep a beard clean is to regularly trim it. In doing so, dirt and bacteria that are trapped in the hair will be removed. When trimming a beard, it’s important to use a sharp trimmer with adjustable guards, as this will prevent it from being cut too short.
It’s also a good idea to exfoliate the skin beneath the beard. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, dirt, and debris from the skin, making it easier to keep the skin beneath beard clean.
Beyond keeping it clean, it’s also important to keep the beard hydrated. This can be achieved by using beard oil which help to nourish, strengthen, and soften the beard. This can also help reduce any itching and flaking that often comes along with a long beard.
Lastly, avoiding kissing, sharing food, and other activities which involve close contact with other people, as this increases the risk of spreading germs and bacteria.
Preventing Infections in Beards
In order to keep a beard clean and reduce the risk of infection, it’s important to pay attention to hygiene. Cleaning the beard with a good shampoo and conditioner and brushing it regularly can help remove bacteria, dirt, and debris which can accumulate over time. Additionally, a sharp trimmer with adjustable guards can help to keep the beard trimmed and in shape. If the beard becomes too long, exfoliating the skin can help reduce the buildup of bacteria that can become trapped in the hair.
Another important factor is to keep the beard hydrated, as this helps to reduce any itching and flaking which can be caused by dry skin. This can easily be done by using beard oil, which provide the necessary nutrients to keep it healthy. Additionally, avoiding close contact with other people, such as sharing drinks, can help reduce the spread of bacteria.
How to Treat Infections that Arise from Beards
It is important to be aware of the signs of infection when it comes to growing a beard. These signs include redness, flaking of the skin, irritation, and itchiness. If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical help in treating the infection.
The doctor may suggest antibiotics in order to treat the infection. Additionally, it is important to take into account lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and drinking plenty of water. These changes can help boost the immune system, making it easier to fight off any infection.
Additionally, it is important to take extra caution to ensure the beard is kept clean, as this will help reduce the chance of bacteria returning. This can easily be done by regular shampooing and brushing of the beard, as well as using beard oil to keep it hydrated.
The Benefits of Clean Beards
Having a clean and well-maintained beard can bring a range of benefits both physically and mentally. In terms of aesthetics, a clean and healthy beard can provide a well-groomed and sophisticated appearance, which can be beneficial in both personal and professional settings.
In terms of health and hygiene, a clean beard can help reduce the chances of infection and skin irritation so one can go about their day worry-free. Furthermore, keeping the beard clean and hydrated can improve the overall health of the beard and skin, reducing any itching and flaking caused by dryness or bacteria.
Finally, having a clean beard can help reduce anxiety and give one a feeling of confidence. It can also be an important part of self-care, as it can help one to relax and take a break from every day responsibilities.
Facial Hair Hygiene Products
There are many products on the market specifically designed for beard care, ranging from shampoos to conditioners, balms, and oils. Many of these products are designed to help nourish, hydrate, and soften the beard while also cleaning and strengthening it.
These products are a great way to ensure the beard is kept in top shape and can help reduce breakouts, itching, and flaking, making them a great choice for any beard-loving man.
Maintaining Beards in a Professional Setting
Beards can be an asset in professional settings, however, it’s important to keep them neat and well-groomed. This means following the same guidelines for beard care, such us shampooing regularly, brushing, and using conditioner. It’s also important to trim and shape the beard so it looks neat, tidy, and professional. Additionally, keeping the beard hydrated and using specialized products can help reduce any itching and flaking, making one look polished and professional.
Conclusion
Beards can present a range of health and aesthetic benefits, however, it’s important to take extra care when it comes to hygiene. Doing so can help reduce the risk of infection, skin irritation and other uncomfortable conditions. Additionally, maintaining a clean and well-groomed beard can help increase confidence and improve one’s overall impression in either personal or professional settings.
