Growth Characteristics
When it comes to facial hair growth, genetics play an important role. Although the average beard growth rate is 1/2 inch per month, this time can vary a lot from person to person. Some men, known as “rapid beard growers,” can grow a beard up to 1 inch per month while others who are slow growers are stuck at 1/4 inch per month or less. The condition of a man’s facial hair also plays an important role in how long it takes for a beard to grow. Unhealthy, malnourished hair can take noticeably longer to grow than healthy hair that is receiving the necessary nutrients.
Hormonal production is also a key factor in facial hair growth, as men who produce more testosterone and dihydrotestosterone are likely to experience faster hair growth. It’s important to note that as we age, our hormone production can diminish significantly, leading to slower facial hair growth. Finally, the hair on a man’s face—as opposed to his head—grows much thinner and slower, so the time it takes for a beard to grow will always be relatively slower than the time it takes for the hair on top of his head to grow.
Factors Affecting Growth
Besides genetics, there are other factors that can influence a man’s facial hair growth rate as well. For example, men who smoke tend to have slower facial hair growth due to nicotine’s inherent effect on blood circulation, as well as its other health-related drawbacks. The same goes for men who frequently consume alcohol, as alcohol takes a toll on our bodies by reducing the amount of testosterone and other beneficial hormones present in the bloodstream.
Additionally, men who are involved in high-stress activities, or participate in vigorous athletic activity, are also likely to experience slower-than-average facial hair growth due to the body’s cortisol production. High levels of cortisol can damage the follicles and inhibit their ability to grow healthy facial hair.
It has also been proven that men who regularly wash their faces are more likely to experience slower facial hair growth. This is likely due to the fact that washing removes some of the natural oils and emollients that help to facilitate facial hair growth. It is also possible that when men wash their faces they can overstimulate their facial hair follicles, leading to slower rather than faster growth.
Follicle Cycles
When it comes to hair growth, the term “follicle cycle” is key. Facial hair goes through different stages of its cycle before it is ultimately considered “mature” or “full.” The first stage of the follicle cycle is the Anagen phase, which typically lasts for about two to four years. During this time, the hair follicle is actively growing and producing new hair. This is followed by the Catagen phase, a relatively short period of time—lasting only a few weeks—where the follicles shrink and detach from the nearby blood vessels.
Once the Catagen phase is complete, hair enters the Telogen phase, where it rests for approximately three months before it is shed. It is once the Telogen phase is complete that new hair begins to enter the Anagen phase, and the cycle begins anew.
Conclusion
When it comes to growing a full, healthy beard there are many factors to consider. Whether or not a man has genetics that are predisposed to growing a thick and strong beard, he must also consider his lifestyle and general health. Regular washing, smoking, and drinking can all lead to slower-than-average facial hair growth, and men must also pay attention to their hormone production to ensure they are growing their facial hair at the fastest rate possible. Understanding the different phases of the follicle cycle is also important, as this is the key to maintaining a healthy full beard.
