Why Can Some Guys Not Grow Beards? The Science of Facial Hair (2023)

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Not all men are created equal when it comes to the ability to grow a beard. Some men can grow a beard that would make even the most rugged lumberjack envious, while others can’t seem to grow anything more than a thin mustache.

It’s not their fault, and there’s nothing wrong with them. In fact, some of the most famous and handsome men in the world can’t grow beards. So don’t worry if you can’t grow one. You’re in good company.

But, why can some guys not grow beards?

It’s a question that has puzzled man for centuries. But now, finally, science has the answer.

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind why some men can’t grow beards, and whether or not there’s anything you can do about it.

The Science of Facial Hair: Why Can Some Guys Not Grow Beards?

Imagine you’re at a bar. You see a group of guys in the corner laughing and joking. They all have thick, luscious beards. You, on the other hand, can’t even grow a mustache. What’s the deal?

It turns out there may be a scientific explanation for why some guys can’t grow beards. We talked to two experts to find out the real story behind facial hair.

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, says there are a few factors that can contribute to someone’s ability to grow facial hair.

First, facial hair growth is primarily determined by hormones — specifically, testosterone and its derivatives,” he says. Some men have higher levels of testosterone than others, and this can impact facial hair growth.

However, it’s not just about the hormones. Dr. Shmerling says that the way your hair follicles are distributed on your face can also play a role.

“If you have a lot of hair follicles on your face, you’re more likely to be able to grow a thicker beard,” he says. “This is why some men can grow very thick beards while others can only grow thin mustaches.”

So, if you’re looking to grow a beard, it’s worth checking with your doctor to see if your hormones are in balance and to find out if you have the right follicle distribution.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, says that diet and lifestyle can also impact beard growth.

Poor nutrition can lead to hair shedding and weak hair shafts which are more susceptible to breakage,” he says. In addition, smoking cigarettes can decrease blood flow to the hair follicles and lead to inflammation, further impacting hair growth.

So, if you’re struggling to grow a beard, it’s worth making sure you’re eating a healthy diet and not smoking cigarettes.

With that said, there are some men who simply cannot grow beards no matter what they do. Dr. Shmerling says this is because they have a genetic condition called hypogonadism, which leads to low levels of testosterone.

“There are treatments available for this condition, but they can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance,” he says.

If you’re struggling to grow a beard, it’s worth talking to your doctor to see if there might be an underlying medical reason. Otherwise, it’s just a matter of finding the right grooming products and being patient.

How to Grow a Beard if You Can’t?

If you have decided to grow a beard, congratulations! Beards can be a great way to express your personal style and they have a ton of health benefits. But, growing a beard isn’t always easy. Here are a few tips to help you grow a healthy, thick beard:

1. Start with a clean slate. Make sure to wash your face and exfoliate your skin before you start growing a beard. This will help remove any dead skin cells and promote new hair growth.
2. Invest in some quality beard oil. Beard oil will help keep your beard hair soft and manageable. It will also help protect your skin from the elements and prevent itchiness.
3. Don’t forget to shampoo and condition your beard. Just like the hair on your head, your beard hair needs to be shampooed and conditioned to stay healthy. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping away natural oils.
4. Be patient. Growing a beard takes time. Be patient and allow your hair to grow at its own pace.
5. Get regular trims. Getting your beard trimmed on a regular basis will help keep it looking neat and tidy. It will also help prevent split ends and beard dandruff.

By following these tips, you can grow a healthy, thick beard that you can be proud of.