Factors Affecting Beard Growth
Growing a long, full beard can be a long and laborious process, and while genetics play a role in the thickness and type of facial hair, there are also a few steps you can take to ensure your beard grows faster and longer. To help explain how you can influence your beard growth, we asked dermatology experts Dr. Mike Lowenstein and Dr. Maxine Etzioni for their tips and insights.
Genetics
For some men, genetics are the main factor influencing their beard length and thickness. According to Dr. Lowenstein, “Research has indicated that certain genes are responsible for the production of androgens, which is important for the development of facial hair. Everyone’s genetics are different, so some may grow thicker beards than others.”
Testosterone Levels
Testosterone is the male hormone primarily responsible for beard growth, and if a man’s testosterone levels are naturally lower, it may be difficult to grow a full beard. To increase testosterone levels, Dr. Lowenstein suggests exercising, eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, and getting enough sleep. Also, avoiding drugs and alcohol can help keep testosterone levels high.
Facial Hair Care
Dr. Etzioni advises taking proper care of your facial hair to keep it healthy and promote faster growth. She recommends washing it regularly, using a gentle beard shampoo, and exfoliating the skin underneath. She also suggests using a beard oil to encourage hydration and better circulation.
Patience, Persistence And Dedication
No matter the method, growing a beard can take some time, especially if you are trying to get it to a certain length. According to Dr. Etzioni, “Be patient, persistent and dedicated to your beard growth journey. It doesn’t happen overnight, and you need to be mindful of the methods you use.” She further advised avoiding unhealthy techniques like taking over-the-counter hormone supplements, as these may have long-term side effects.
Trimming
Once you have achieved the desired length of your beard, Dr. Lowenstein suggests taking the necessary steps to maintain it. Regular trimming and combing can help keep your beard looking neat and tidy. He also recommends avoiding the use of hot water and styling products, as these can damage the hairs and inhibit new growth.
Exercises To Increase Beard Growth
Growing a thick and full beard can take some time, but there are some exercises that you can do to help promote faster and thicker beard growth. According to experts, certain yoga poses, such as the plough pose, and facial massage can help increase circulation in the facial area, which can encourage faster beard growth.
Yoga Poses
Yoga poses, such as the plough pose and fish pose, can help to improve blood circulation and promote facial hair growth. According to Dr. Etzioni, the plough pose can help stimulate the thyroid, which helps to regulate hormones, while the fish pose helps to increase blood flow to the face, which can help nourish hair follicles and promote beard growth.
Facial Massage
Massaging your scalp and face regularly can help stimulate hair growth and make your beard look thicker and fuller. Dr. Lowenstein recommends gently massaging the roots of your beard for five minutes every day. He also suggests using essential oils – such as coconut or jojoba oil – to further promote growth.
Diet
In addition to exercising and massaging the facial area, Dr. Etzioni advises paying attention to your diet. According to her, “Eating a balanced diet, with plenty of protein, minerals, healthy fats, vitamins and antioxidants, can help promote the growth of healthy facial hair.” She also suggests avoiding sugary and processed foods, as these can inhibit hair growth and make existing facial hair weak and brittle.
Managing Stress
Stress can take a toll on your overall health and wellbeing, and it can also have an impact on your beard growth. To manage stress, Dr. Lowenstein suggests making time for yourself and taking regular breaks to unwind. He also suggests getting enough sleep, practising mindful breathing and engaging in activities like yoga or meditation to keep stress levels in check.
Supplements And Vitamins
Certain supplements and vitamins can help to promote healthier and thicker facial hair. Dr. Lowenstein suggests taking biotin and Vitamin B, as well as zinc and collagen supplements, which can help to strengthen skin and encourage new hair growth. He also recommends looking for an over-the-counter beard vitamin complex which contains all the necessary ingredients for faster and thicker facial hair.
Hormone Supplements
While some over-the-counter hormone supplements may promise to help grow thicker facial hair, Dr. Etzioni advises avoiding them as they can have potential side effects. She suggests consulting a dermatologist if you are considering taking hormone therapy or steroids to improve your facial hair.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a topical solution that is FDA-approved and is used to stimulate hair growth. According to Dr. Etzioni, minoxidil is safe and can be beneficial for some types of facial hair, such as patchy beards or receding hairlines. However, she recommends talking to a doctor before using any type of medical treatment for beard growth.
Laser Treatments
Laser hair growth treatments are also available and can help promote thicker and fuller facial hair growth. However, Dr. Lowenstein cautions that laser treatments can be expensive and are not necessary for everyone. He suggests consulting a dermatologist to see if this type of treatment is right for you.
Grooming Tips
Once your beard has reached the desired length, you’ll want to take care of it to prevent split ends and keep it looking its best. According to Dr. Etzioni, it’s important to comb your beard regularly to keep it tangle-free and to use a good conditioner to provide hydration and protect it from breakage. She also suggests using a beard balm or wax to determine the shape and keep stray hairs in place.
Using A Trimmer
Dr. Lowenstein also suggests using a trimmer to keep your beard looking neat and tidy. He advises trimming your beard regularly and adjusting the length of the trimmer to ensure you get an even cut. He further advises against trimming too much, as this can cause your facial hair to appear patchy and uneven.
Shaving Techniques
When it comes to shaving, Dr. Etzioni recommends using a sharp blade and taking your time when following the grain of your beard. She suggests using an aftershave lotion or balm to soothe the skin and prevent razor burn. She further advises against using an electric shaver, which can cause skin irritation and impede new hair growth.
Protecting Your Beard
Finally, Dr. Lowenstein suggests taking the necessary steps to protect your beard from the elements and everyday wear and tear. He suggests wearing a hat or scarf and topical sunscreens to protect it from UV damage, and avoiding strong winds or excessive heat. He further suggests not sleeping on a pillow or pillowcases with materials that can break down your facial hair.
Alternative Solutions
If you are still struggling to get your beard to grow longer, there are a few alternative solutions that you can consider.
Follicle Stimulators
Follicle stimulators are topical solutions that are applied directly to the skin and are meant to boost circulation, encourage hair growth and slow hair loss. According to Dr. Etzioni, these solutions are safe and can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as laser hair growth or supplements.
Transplantation
Hair transplantation is another option that is becoming increasingly popular. During this procedure, hair follicles are taken from another part of your body and transplanted to the area of your facial hair that is thinning or balding. However, Dr. Lowenstein cautions that this surgery can be expensive and may not be suitable for everyone.
Tattooing The Beard
According to Dr. Lowenstein, some men opt for permanent solutions, such as tattooing their beard to give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. However, he warns that this is an invasive procedure and suggests seeking medical advice first.
Conclusion
Growing a full, long beard can be a difficult task, and while genetics are a major factor, there are some steps you can take to help promote faster and thicker hair growth. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and managing stress can help to increase testosterone levels and encourage facial hair growth. Additionally, supplements and vitamins can help give your beard a boost, while laser and follicle stimulation treatments can help improve the appearance of existing facial hair. Finally, proper grooming techniques, such as combing, trimming and styling, can help maintain your beard and keep it looking its best.
