How to Know if You Can Grow a Beard
Growing a beard is an inherently natural thing for most men. It’s part of the evolutionary development of the species and most men have an idea for what kind of beard they’d like to have and subsequently grow. But, the reality of it is that genetics and lifestyle can effect the speed and density of hair production, and you may find that you’re facing an uphill battle when it comes to growing a beard.
The first factor when it comes to beard-growing potential is genetics. Some men are more genetically predisposed to growing beards than others. Those with a high testosterone level tend to grow facial hair faster and thicker, while men with a low testosterone level might struggle to grow anything more than some light, sparse stubble.
It’s important to remember that, while genetics might be a constraint, they’re not a definitive factor when it comes to the presence of your beard. Lifestyle choices can also have an effect on your beard-growing potential, particularly when it comes to your diet and overall health. Vitamins and minerals play an important role in hair production, and if you’re not getting enough of the right nutrition it may take longer for your beard to come in and grow.
In terms of gauging your beard-growing potential, the simplest way is to just give it a go. Most men will have tested the waters and found out whether or not they can grow a beard as they reach a certain age. If you’re looking to give it a go, remember to keep your expectations in check at first. It may take several weeks before you actually start to even see any kind of growing potential, and expect that the final product may look different than what you originally intended.
Growth Remedies
For those looking for extra help in the beard-growing stakes, there are several remedies that can be followed to give you a leg up. Supplements containing biotin, or vitamins B7 or H, have been known to be helpful in stimulating hair growth, as well as folic acid, niacin and zinc. Also remember to keep your face clean and exfoliate at least twice a week as this will help to ensure that your skin is free from dirt and oil, which can otherwise block the access of vitamins and minerals to the hair follicles.
If you’re still not getting the desired results, you can turn to the somewhat controversial world of male hormone testosterone therapy, but seek medical advice first before jumping into a regime like this. There are also minoxidil and finasteride solutions that can be used to help thicken hair, and competition-level bodybuilders may sometimes turn to dihydrotestosterone blockers in order to minimise body hair growth.
Clean Shave
If, after all your experimentation and effort, you’re still coming up empty handed when it comes to producing a full facial hair, it’s time to start thinking about alternative solutions. You could opt for the tailored, clean-shaven look, or pick from the range of artificial beards and moustaches available on the market.
A classic clean-shaven look is still a fashionable choice for those unable to grow a full, thick beard, and there are dozens of different grooming techniques you can use to give yourself a tougher, more defined jawline. Don’t forget that beard trimmers and beard shapers are also a great way to give yourself a full-beard-like look without any of the maintenance that comes with actual beard growing.
Facial Hair Alternatives
If you don’t like the clean-shaven look, there are plenty of alternative solutions to try. For example, the stubble look is always a great option, as it’s easy to maintain and doesn’t require daily upkeep. There are also plenty of synthetic beards and moustaches on the market, which can be used to imitate the look of a fuller, thicker beard or moustache.
You could even shake things up by opting for a dramatic beard or moustache style, such as a Fu Manchu or pencil-style moustache. These are more intricate and take more effort than a more vanilla beard style but can be great for special occasions or if you want to make a statement.
Pro Facial Hair Tips
For those who are lucky enough to have grown a full beard, there are several tips and tricks worth bearing in mind if you want to maintain that well-trimmed, healthy look. Invest in a good quality beard trimmer, as well as scissors and scissors attachments, to get the right kind of shape and scoop.
Keep your beard clean, not only for aesthetic reasons but for your own health too – don’t forget to use a gentle beard shampoo, preferably one with moisturising properties, to keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant. Finally, use a balm or beard oil after every wash – this will help to condition and keep your facial hair looking healthy and shiny.
Facial Hair Hygiene
Beard hygiene is equally as important as the grooming and maintenance of a beard. Carrying out regular grooming and washing will help to keep your beard healthy and fresh, but it’s also important to make sure that your beard is a clean and safe environment. To do this, you need to make sure that you wash your beard regularly, and if you’re prone to developing skin irritation or bumps due to oils and dirt, then invest in a gentle exfoliating scrub and use this on a weekly basis.
In extreme cases of skin irritation, a doctor may recommend using a specific anti-inflammatory or anti-bacterial cream to reduce redness and inflammation caused by bacteria and dirt. Also keep an eye on your diet – if possible, add more vitamins and minerals that can help aid in hair production, such as zinc and biotin, which can help with stimulating healthy growth.
External Assistance
Finally, if you’re still struggling to cultivate a healthy, thriving beard then don’t be afraid to seek external assistance. Professional beard grooming and styling services are available at most barber shops, and a good barber should be able to give you a tailored grooming plan to help stimulate healthy, thick growth.
Alternatively, you can also search for beard grooming clubs, which are popping up all over the country and offer a more informal, friendly environment to discuss your beard-growing efforts in. Here, you can chat to other members who have the same issues as you, or get advice from the experts.
Personal Grooming Tips
Creating the perfect beard for your own individual face shape and style can take time, trial and error, but it is possible. Put in the effort to take all the necessary steps to ensure that your beard looks as full and healthy as possible. This includes making sure you’re eating a balanced and nutritious diet, exfoliating your beard regularly and using the right products to moisturise and condition your facial hair.
When it comes to trimming, aim for a light and natural sculpting of your facial hair, rather than heavy clipping or shearing. If you’re in a squeeze, try to use the correct trimming tools – professional beard clippers are ideal for getting an even, uniformed look. Finally, use a preventative grooming solution, such as beard balm or oil, to keep your facial hair looking soft, glossy and full of life.
Grow with Confidence
Beard-growing potential certainly varies from person to person, and you may find that you can produce a full-blown beard easily, or you may find that you can produce a light, sparse stubble after months of effort. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to remember that facial hair grows naturally, and it’s your own individual look that matters.
Growing a beard doesn’t have to be a struggle, and with the right attitude and loyalty to your own personal grooming regime, you can have the beard or facial style you want with confidence. Keep this in mind, experiment to see what works and don’t forget that you’re the one in control – you don’t have to be subjected to anyone else’s standards.
