Know What You Are Working With
Growing a beard can be both rewarding and frustrating. Before you jump into growing a full, lush beard, it’s important to understand the basics of beard growth. Everyone’s facial hair is different – some men won’t ever grow a full, thick beard, while some hardly have to do anything to get the facial hair that they want. Learning about your genetic predispositions can help you make a plan that works for you so that your beard can grow out as full as possible.
According to dermatologist, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the key to understanding how “beard genetics” affect you is to look at your father’s facial hair. If your dad was able to grow a full, thick beard with ease, then you are likely to have similar success, and vice versa. While genetics play a role in the thickness, shape, and consistency of your beard, they don’t have total control. That’s why it’s important to learn what you’re working with, so that you can figure out a game plan to make the best of what you’ve got.
Shampoo and Condition Your Beard
Like the hair on the top of your head, facial hair needs regular upkeep to get it to grow out full and strong. A crucial part of this is keeping your beard completely clean. Investing in good quality beard shampoo and conditioner to use both two or three times a week is a great way to start. Pay special attention to the areas where hair is thinning out – shampooing and conditioning these areas can help to nourish the hair follicles and stimulate new growth.
When you shampoo your beard, make sure to work the product into both the hair and skin beneath the surface. Taking your time with this step allows the shampoo to do its job, removing excess oils and dirt from the skin and hair that can prevent new growth from happening. Once you’ve thoroughly washed and rinsed your beard, use conditioner to keep it soft and manageable.
Comb and Brush Your Beard
Along with shampooing and conditioning, brushing and combing your beard daily will help to keep it neat and full. Brushing helps to evenly distribute the natural oils throughout your hair, adding shine and luster to the entire beard. Combing will help to keep wayward hairs tame while also giving the beard an overall more even appearance.
When you brush or comb your beard, be sure to be gentle. Going too hard with the brush or comb can damage the hair follicles and cause hair loss. Start by brushing or combing from the neck and working your way up towards the cheekbones. Take your time with this process, as it will make your beard look more uniform and even. You can also use a beard oil to add extra moisture and protection to your beard as you style.
Use Minoxidil
One of the most to help fill out a beard is to use an over-the-counter topical treatment like Minoxidil. It is best to apply Minoxidil directly to the area where the beard is thinning out, since this will help to stimulate new hair growth in the area. Minoxidil has been clinically proven to spur hair growth, and is one of the most popular treatments for thinning hair.
Since everyone’s skin and hair are different, it’s important to follow the directions on the packaging when using minoxidil. You may need to apply Minoxidil for up to two months before beginning to see results, so be sure to be diligent with the application. As long as you use it correctly, Minoxidil can help to stimulate new hair growth in thinning areas.
Consider Supplements
Along with topical treatment, another effective way to stimulate new hair growth is to use beard supplements. Generally, these supplements are made up of natural ingredients like vitamins and minerals which can help to nourish the skin and hair beneath the surface. Using beard supplements on a daily basis can help to keep the beard and follicles healthy, leading to less breakage and more even growth.
Be sure to look for supplements that are specifically designed for beard growth and contain natural ingredients like biotin, niacin, palmetto, and saw palmetto. All of these ingredients work to stimulate new hair growth and keep the beard looking its best. Taking two to three supplements a day, along with a healthy diet, can help to encourage the beard to grow out thicker.
Exercise and Diet
It might surprise you, but exercising and eating a balanced diet can actually help to promote faster beard growth. Working out helps to circulate blood flow throughout the body, including to the facial area. This increases the delivery of nutrients to the skin, which can help to stimulate new hair growth.
A balanced diet is also important for beard health. Eating foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats can help to nourish the facial area and keep the skin and hair follicles healthy. Combining healthy eating with regular exercise can be an effective way to encourage new facial hair growth.
Control Stress
Stress is one of the most common culprits of hair loss, including in the facial area. When you are under stress, your body releases excess hormones which can stunt hair growth. Keeping your stress levels in check can help to encourage healthy facial hair growth.
There are a few simple ways to control stress, such as meditating and using calming scents like lavender or chamomile. Other ways include engaging in hobbies you enjoy, getting enough sleep, and setting boundaries so you don’t take on too much. Remember that managing your stress levels is key to keeping your hair and skin healthy, so take the time to do the things that make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Talking To a Dermatologist
If you’ve tried all of these methods, but still aren’t seeing the beard you want, it may be time to speak with a dermatologist. A specialist will have access to a range of treatments and products that can help to stimulate new facial hair growth and remove any blockages that might be preventing the hair from growing full and thick.
A dermatologist can also provide insight on the particular use of products that are right for your skin type. They may also have access to a range of prescription products that can help to target your particular type of facial hair. Taking the time to speak with a skin specialist can be a great way to craft a plan that works for your particular facial hair needs.
Experiment with Products
Finally, experimenting with the right kinds of styling products can help you to fake the look of a fuller beard. Many companies now sell special beard balms and waxes that help to make the beard look thicker and fuller. These products work by making the beard look denser and living the hair looking soft and well-moisturized.
Finding the right styling product can also be a great way to fill in any thinning areas without having to use cumbersome products like Minoxidil. Try out a few different product to see what works best for your beard – there is a vast range of styling products that can help to give your beard the fullness it needs.
