Beards can both be a fashion statement and iconic representation. Whilst there is no definite answer as to how quickly a beard should grow, it is a frequent query as to how fast a beard should grow. The real answer lies in genetics and a few helpful guidelines.
Scientists believe that beard growth is determined by hormones called androgens. These hormones affect how quickly or slowly facial hair grows, based on an individual’s unique genetic makeup. As such, it is difficult to definitively predict how long it will take for a person’s beard to reach a certain length or fullness. As a result, a man’s individual facial hair growth rate may differ from the average growth rate.
Taking this into consideration, generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two to four months for a full beard to develop. During this time you may wish to care for your facial hair growth: regular trimming, applying beard oil, and washing it with a specific beard shampoo. This will help it grow healthy, free from ‘frizziness,’ and groomed.
Beard growth can be affected by age. It is more common for beards to become thicker and fuller during the late teens and early twenties. This is usually due to those androgens, testosterone, and DHT mentioned earlier. However, even as you get older, you should still be able to grow a good full beard. You may just need to be a little patient, bear with it, and give it full nourishment.
Nutrition and health levels also play a role. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep could be beneficial. If you feel like your beard isn’t growing as quickly as you’d like, perhaps try incorporating healthier habits and lifestyle changes. This should help supplement the natural process of growing a beard and provide you with some extraordinary side benefits.
A few other factors may also impede the natural progression of beard growth. These include certain medications, environmental conditions, stress, smoking, and genetics. Factors such as smoking, for example, can reduce the natural production of testosterone, and create an unfavorable facial hair environment. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you feel like you need help.
Stimulating Facial Hair Growth
When it comes to helping stimulate facial hair growth, many people turn to testosterone and DHT boosters to stimulate the body’s own production of those hormones. However, these can be risky if not monitored by a healthcare professional. If you are looking for an alternative option, you can use certain creams, oils, and even beard growth vitamins.
Beard growth oils often contain a combination of beneficial ingredients, such as biotin, Vitamin C, caffeine, Vitamin E, saw palmetto, and pumpkin seed oil. These vitamins and minerals aid the body’s natural production of facial hair. However, before buying a product, it is always a good idea to seek medical advice to ensure you’re choosing the right product for you and in the right dosage.
Although beard growth vitamins are not a guarantee that you will see results quicker, they may help to supply the body with essential vitamins and minerals that support good beard growth. These can stimulate facial hair growth within a few months, depending on genetics and lifestyle, but can also provide an extra layer of nourishment to growing facial hair.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Whilst growing your beard, it is essential to avoid common mistakes. This includes plucking out any unwanted strays, trying to shape the beard too soon, or harshly combing or brushing it. Even worse, some people apply heat to facial hair, which can damage the follicles and leave you with patches. However, there are tools and products specifically designed for the proper maintenance of facial hair.
For example, when combing or brushing your beard, use a wide-tooth comb or one with softer bristles for maximum comfort. This will also help reduce any discomfort when combing and brushing. Additionally, you may try using a beard trimmer for more precision. This will help to better shape it, as well as improving the look of your facial hair.
Benefits of Growing a Beard
Having a beard can greatly benefit an individual’s health. The natural oils of the facial hair help to keep the skin below moisturized and reduce the risk of various skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and dandruff. Moreover, beards can be a defense against sunburn, dust, and other environmental irritants.
Besides being beneficial for the health of your skin, beards can also improve your overall physical appearance. The accessory can be complementary to many face shapes and other hairstyles. Furthermore, a beard can help enhance one’s facial features and make them appear more distinguished.
Even though results might vary based on genetics and lifestyle, most people can benefit from growing a beard. It is an excellent way to display your personality and personal style. This is why sufficient care should be given during the growth phase, in order to be able to enjoy the many benefits of having a beard.
Changes Throughout the Growth Period
As your beard grows, you should be aware that it might not look amazing from the very beginning. In the beginning stages, it may appear patchy or too sparse, however, this is quite normal and should not deter you from continuing the natural facial hair growth process. Soon enough, your beard will start looking fuller and more attractive.
At the start, you may want to define its shape and even out any patches with a trimmer. Then, you’ll need to wait for about six weeks for it to grow in fully. This time period usually gives the face enough time to adjust and make the beard look more even.
Regardless of the length of time it takes to grow the beard, it is crucial to remain patient and keep the beard well groomed in order to get the best results. With each day that passes, the shape of the beard will become clearer and a steady growth rate will eventually show. Ultimately, you can then begin to experiment with its style.
Managing Unwanted Hair
If you’re not a fan of having hair on other parts of your face, there are various options available to you in order to get rid of any unwanted hair. This includes waxing, tweezing, threading, and laser treatments. However, these should always be performed by a professional to reduce the risk of any negative side effects from occurring.
Before pursuing more extreme methods, simpler solutions may be more useful. For example, depilatory creams dissolve the hair at the root and reduce the chances of the hair becoming thick or coarse. Additionally, razors can efficiently and quickly cut through facial hair and give the face a neat look.
For those hoping to get rid of the hair around their mouth and on the chin, you can use beard-serum in order for natural ingredients to dissolve and delicately remove any unwanted facial hair. However, this alternative should be used sparingly, as it can slow down beard growth in these areas.
Identifying the Right Beard Style for You
Each individual will have his own preference for the type and length of beard he’d like to rock. It all depends on the shape of your face and the amount of hair you have to work with. For example, those with fuller facial hair may prefer longer beards, whereas people with patchier facial hair may prefer a shorter goatee or stubble. Additionally, different beard shapes will suit different face shapes.
When choosing a style, make sure that you take the time to experiment with it and visualize how you’ll look. It might also be helpful to consider how it will fit in with the kind of lifestyle you choose to lead. For example, if you work in a professional setting, a full beard may not be the best option.
Once you’ve chosen your style, make sure to use the right products to maintain it. This could include scissors, trimmers, and other grooming products. If your beard is getting longer, visit a barber for regular trims every 8 to 10 weeks, as this is usually enough for keeping the desired shape and preventing it from looking unruly.
Product and Ingredient Considerations
It is important to select beard products that use gentle ingredients, such as shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera. These will be able to add the hydration needed, rid the beard of patchiness, and give an overall neat look. Additionally, natural beard oils can help nourish and condition the facial hair, giving it an aroma and healthy sheen.
You may also consider using beard balms which provide deeper hydration. They also tame any flyaway hairs, as well as giving the beard that extra hold and preventing it from getting unruly and frizzy. Furthermore, a beard wax can help to keep it in place, potentially in a specific direction, and secure it throughout the day.
Finally, a beard cream is good to add those extra layers of hydration and nutrition. This can be particularly useful for those with longer beards, as it helps to control any split ends and brittle, dry beard hairs. Remember to buy natural and organic products that are free from harsh chemicals, which can lead to harmful side effects.
