How To Know If You Can T Grow A Beard

Growing a beard has become something of a rite of passage for many men. But do all men have the capacity to do so? The answer to this question depends on a few factors and can give you an indication of whether or not you can grow a beard.

Hereditary Factors

The density and thickness of the facial hair you can grow will depend upon the genetics that you have inherited from your parents and other relatives. The hair follicles on a man’s face – and elsewhere on the body – determine the strength of the beard you can grow, and the hormone levels you have will also be a factor. Genetics can also determine the shape of your face and the kind of beard you could grow.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones are another big influencing factor. Men who suffer from hormonal imbalance – such as low testosterone levels – may find it difficult to grow a full, thick beard. This is because the hormones which control facial hair growth in males – androgens – are reduced in these cases. In other cases, taking hormonal medications, such as hormone replacement therapy, can artificially suppress the androgens, resulting in thinner or patchy beards.

Medical Conditions

Apart from hormones, certain medical conditions can also prevent you from growing a thick, healthy beard. For example, certain skin diseases like psoriasis, scalp disorders, and allergic reactions can cause beard-growth related problems. Also, people with underlying health problems, such as anemia, hypothyroidism, or heart disease, may find it difficult to grow a beard.

Age

Your age will also be a major influencing factor. Most men are not able to grow full beards until they reach the age of 18 or 19. After that, facial hair usually continues to grow until you reach your late twenties or early thirties. After this point, it may start to thin out.

Lifestyle

Your lifestyle will also determine whether or not you can grow a beard. The hair-growth cycle of the follicles on your face is greatly affected by the diet you follow, the amount of sleep you get, the amount of stress you carry, and your exposure to pollutants. Poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and unhealthy lifestyle choices can all hinder the growth of facial hair.

Grooming

Last but not least, grooming plays an important role in the growth of facial hair. Proper grooming habits, such as trimming and keeping the beard clean, will ensure that the hair follicles stay healthy and promote better growth. Additionally, using natural hair-care products to nourish and condition the beard will also help in keeping it thick and healthy.

Hereditary Factors and The Genetic Roulette

Genetic makeup is the biggest factor in determining whether or not you can grow a beard. How the genes are passed down from your parents, grandparents, or other relatives will ultimately determine what kind of facial hair you can grow.
If your father has a full, thick beard, then you have a good chance of growing one as well. However, if your father isn’t able to grow a beard, then there’s a chance that you might not be able to as well.
In some cases, looking at family photos or talking with other members of your family can give you an indication of what kind of facial hair you can expect to grow. Additionally, you can also consult with a professional geneticist or dermatologist to get a more accurate picture.

Hormones and Testosterone Balance

Hormones are the main factor driving beard growth – and more specifically, the androgen hormone testosterone. People who are dealing with hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone, may find it difficult to grow a thick and full beard.
Often, it’s recommended to get tested for your testosterone levels in order to determine whether or not you can grow a beard. If you are taking any kind of hormonal medication, then it’s best to consult with a doctor before making any attempts at growing a beard.

Medical Conditions, Diet and Lifestyle Choices

Apart from the hereditary factors and hormones, certain medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also affect the growth of facial hair. Certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis, may give rise to hair loss or patchy beard growth. So it’s important to get tested for any underlying health problems before attempting to grow a beard.
Additionally, proper diet and lifestyle choices are also critical for healthy bearded growth. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining good grooming habits will all ensure that your hair follicles stay healthy. Taking supplements and using natural oils, such as castor oil, jojoba oil, or argan oil, can also help to promote better hair growth.

Age and Patience

Finally, your age must also be taken into consideration. Most men are not able to grow a full beard until they reach their mid to late twenties. In this case, patience is the key. Give the facial hair time to grow in, and it will eventually become thicker and fuller.
If after a few months your beard is still not looking quite right, then it may be due to one of the factors discussed above. In this case, it’s best to consult with a professional to determine the underlying cause.

Trimming The Beard To Suit Your Face

Once you’ve determined whether or not you can grow a beard, it’s time to get trimming. Trimming your beard is essential in order to keep it looking neat and tidy. The type of beard you can grow and the length of beard which looks good on you will depend on the shape of your face, your lifestyle, and personal preferences.
A short, neat beard is best suited for men with oval and round shaped faces. A long beard, on the other hand, is best suited for those with square and oblong shaped faces. If you’re looking for a more creative style, then it’s best to work with a stylist who can help you choose the best beard for your face shape.

Maintaining The Beard – The Basics

Maintaining a beard does require some effort, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Here are a few basic steps to help keep your beard looking its best:

Wash your beard with a gentle soap or shampoo once or twice a week, to keep it clean.
Condition your beard using a hydrating conditioner or beard oil.
Comb your beard regularly, to prevent knots and tangles.
Trim the beard regularly, to keep it looking neat.
If necessary, use styling products to keep it in shape.

Additional Tips for Growing A Beard

Growing a healthy, thick beard requires nourishment from within. Here are a few additional tips to make sure that your facial hair stays healthy and strong:

Get plenty of rest and reduce stress levels.
Eat a balanced diet that is rich in proteins and vitamins.
Avoid smoked and processed foods, as well as sugary drinks.
Supplement your diet with biotin, zinc, and a good multivitamin.
Stay away from polluting factors, such as air pollution, chemicals and smoke.
Consult with a doctor if you experience any skin or hair related problems.

Things to Avoid When Growing a Beard

Finally, here are a few pointers to bear in mind when growing a beard:

Avoid over-washing and over-conditioning the beard, as this can strip the natural oils which are necessary for healthy growth.
Don’t trim too frequently, as this can stunt the beard’s growth.
Don’t use styling products too often, as they can dry out the beard.
Don’t over-brush and comb the beard, as this can damage the hair follicles.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or products on the face, such as shampoo, conditioner, and hairspray.

Final Words

Whether or not you can grow a full, thick beard depends on a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, health, lifestyle, and age. Each person is unique and so it’s important to have realistic expectations when it comes to facial hair growth. With some patience, proper grooming habits, and the right nourishment, you should be able to achieve the beard style you desire.