Increasing Beard Density
Beards are one of the oldest forms of facial hair in humans, and one of the most powerful ways to exude masculine style, which is why it is no surprise that more and more men are choosing to grow thicker, longer, more distinguished looking beards. But growing that perfect beard can be a long and often complicated process; knowing how to grow a thicker beard can be the difference between ultimate success or ultimate failure in the pursuit of your perfect manly mane.
Firstly, the most important step in growing a thicker beard is to be patient. Results take time and it’s important to remember that your beard will continue to grow even after it has reached a certain length and texture. It is also important to take good care of your beard by keeping it clean, moisturized and styled regularly. Regularly using a good beard comb or brush to detangle, stimulating circulation and prevent rogue hairs from taking root, whilst also using a quality beard oil to nourish hair follicles and boost growth, are two of the best ways to maximize your potential for a thick, healthy beard.
Protein is also vital in the development of healthier and thicker hair. Protein is the building block of the stronger and longer hairs that people with thick beards have. The best ways to get a good source of protein are to eat lots of lean meats, eggs, and legumes, as well as taking regular doses of vitamins, minerals and multivitamins specifically targeted at hair growth.
There are also some lifestyle changes that could potentially help, such as drinking enough water; dehydration can lead to weaker, brittle hair, making it more difficult to grow a thicker beard. In addition to drinking more water, it’s also important to get enough sleep as poor sleeping patterns can also contribute to weak, unhealthy hair.
Finally, there’s another route for those looking for more drastic measures. Hair follicle stimulators such as Minoxidil, otherwise known as Rogaine, can help to stimulate the cells around the hair follicles, leading to more hair growth. Minoxidil should be used with caution, however, and is not suitable for all people; it’s best to consult with a doctor to make sure it is the right option for you.
Shaving and Hair Type
One common misconception about beard growth is that shaving regularly will make the hair grow back thicker, however this is not the case. The texture and thickness of the beard are determined by the hair type – shaving will not change the texture or thickness of the hair follicles.
That being said, there are a few ways that shaving can help to grow a thicker beard. Firstly, a sharper blade can reduce the number of hairs left behind when trimming. Regularly trimming away small patches of unwanted hair can help to tidy the overall shape of the beard and can also allow the individual hairs to spread evenly across the skin, creating a thicker looking growth.
Secondly, regularly exfoliating the skin with an exfoliating brush or scrub can help to reduce ingrown hairs; ingrown hairs can cause an itchy, uncomfortable irritation and can hinder the amount of new growth over time. Lastly, shaving correctly and washing with warm water after can help to reduce the risk of hair follicle inflammation and inflammation limiting the potential for new growth.
Genetic Factors
Genetics is another cause of a thinner, patchier beard. There can be a wide range of genetic factors that affect the rate at which the hair grows, the thickness of each hair follicle, and the overall quantity of hairs. Whilst diet and lifestyle can have a marked effect on the development of the beard, it is the genetic make-up of the individual which ultimately determines the result.
This means that some men may be better suited to having a patchier beard, or one that is naturally thicker than others. Knowing your genetic capabilities can help you set expectations for your beard growth, allowing you to focus on the areas where it is feasible to enhance growth and also be realistic about what is and isn’t achievable.
Treatments and Supplements
There are a plethora of treatments and supplements available that claim to help with beard growth. Some are made specifically for facial hair whereas others are more general hair growth supplements that help to increase hair strength and thickness. Whilst some of these treatments and supplements can be helpful, it is important to do research and consult with a doctor to make sure that they are a good fit for you and your health.
Additionally, it is important to be wary of supplements and treatments as some may contain steroids, hormones and other ingredients which could have an adverse effect on the growth of your beard. Taking a high quality supplement or using an all-natural topical treatment are the safest and most recommended methods of increasing beard thickness.
Diet and Exercise
Whilst a healthy and balanced diet is important for the health of all body parts, the nutrients consumed can have a marked effect on the rate and quality of beard growth. Eating foods rich in vitamin B6, biotin and vitamin E can help with the development of a healthier and thicker beard, as can eating a balanced diet comprising of proteins, fruits and vegetables.
Exercise can also be beneficial for the growth of a thicker beard, as proper circulation helps to bring oxygen-rich blood to the hair follicles and potential spurts of new growth. Any type of exercise can be beneficial for circulation, including yoga and lifting weights, however it is important to consult a doctor before introducing any form of new exercise.
Stress Management
High levels of stress and anxiety can have a range of negative effects on the body, including the growth of a thinner beard. When stress is high, the body prioritises its energy towards hormone balance and away from other areas such as hair growth, which can lead to decreased beard growth and patchiness.
Managing stress and anxiety through a combination of exercise, meditation, positive thinking and goal setting can be beneficial for all areas of health, including beard growth. Additionally, techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, and listening to relaxing music are all great tools for keeping stress levels low.
Hormone Production and Regulation
Hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, play a key role in the development of facial hair. Therefore, those looking to grow a thicker beard should establish healthy hormone production and regulation, in order to maintain the health of their facial hair.
The best way to enhance hormone production and regulation is to get plenty of rest and exercise, as well as meditating to keep stress levels low and avoiding hormone-influencing drugs, such as steroids and other performance enhancing drugs. Additionally, making updates to the diet, in order to maintain a healthy balance, can also help to increase testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels.
Summary
Growing a thicker beard doesn’t happen overnight; patience and consistency are key in order to achieve the desired result. Taking the correct steps such as following a good hair-care regiment, eating a healthy diet, reducing stress levels and understanding personal genetics are all great tools to increase the potential for a thicker beard. Additionally, there are a range of treatments and supplements available for those looking for a more drastic intervention, however it is important to consult with a doctor before taking any steps. With the correct knowledge and approach, anyone can grow a thick, healthy and distinguished looking beard.
