Beards are symbols of masculinity, but there's a lot of wrong information going around. People believe all sorts of myths about beards, like saying they make you more attractive or dirty. Some even think beards have special powers!
We're here to set the record straight. We'll use real science and expert advice to debunk the ten most common beard myths. By getting rid of these false ideas, we'll help guys like you understand the truth about growing and taking care of facial hair. Let's dive into the truth now!
Beard myth #1. the beard itch
Does having a beard make you itchy?
Yes and no. During beard growth, it's common to experience beard itch. It happens when your beard hair begins to grow, and your skin is adjusting. But does it happen all the time? No.
However, if you have a full beard and it's still itchy, it's probably because of other factors, such as:
- dry skin,
- trapped dead skin cells, or
- ingrown hairs.
To ditch that itch, try washing your beard daily with a beard cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil. Applying natural beard oil can help hydrate your dry skin and beard.
Beard myth #2. comfortable in hot weather
Will you feel uneasy when you have a bushy beard during summer?
Of course! The more hair you have in any part of your body, the more sweat you trap. But make no mistake, it has health benefits against the sun's damaging rays, thus, reducing the risk of sunburn.
So, while it may seem counterintuitive, don't be quick to dismiss your beard in the summer—it can provide both a natural cooling effect and valuable sun protection.
Beard myth #3. uniform beard growth
Does beard hair grow evenly?
Absolutely not. The growth rate of your facial hair is different on your chin and cheeks.
Trimming your beard hair is important in achieving even beard growth. Carefully pruning your facial hair allows the slower-growing areas to catch up, giving it an even look.
Beard myth #4. shaven beard hair
"I've shaved my beard hair so it would get thicker. Will it work?"
Unfortunately, it will not.
Another common beard myth is trimming your beard to make it thicker. The science of hair growth does not back this belief. When you shave your facial hair, the tip of the hair follicle becomes blunt and round, making it look and feel thicker. But it doesn't have anything to do with the thickness at all.
Beard myth #5. Beard poo
You can find faeces in your beard hair. Is this true?
Yes and no. It started with an unsettling incident reported by a local ABC affiliate in Albuquerque, a microbiologist employed by Quest Diagnostics.
While examining men's beards, the microbiologist found "enteric" bacteria commonly associated with faecal matter. This revelation raises concerns about the hygiene and cleanliness of facial hair. But make no mistake; you can find these bacteria everywhere—soda fountains and even toothbrushes.
Fascinatingly, a study conducted in 2016 unearthed an intriguing revelation: beards could potentially be more hygienic and resistant to bacteria than clean-shaven skin. The research found that men without facial hair were more susceptible to hosting antibiotic-resistant bacteria responsible for causing infections. This is due to the micro-cuts that occur when you shave.
But it's better to be safe and clean. So it's essential to have a beard care routine to wash off the poop bacteria.
Beard myth #6. Clean-shaven look before an interview
Do you have to shave your beard before a job interview?
Not anymore.
When it comes to job interviews, a clean-shaven look is usually the norm. However, employers are seeing the bearded look in a new light.
For as long as your facial hair is clean and well-groomed, companies will not throw your job application into the trash bin unless they have an anti-beard policy. As things change in the interview world, job hunters realize that grooming, including whether or not to sport facial hair, can make a big difference in how employers perceive them. It's all about looking sharp and meeting their expectations.
Beard myth #7. Permanent patchy beards
Do men get patchy beards? Yes.
Some get uneven beard growth. In the early stages, it's common to have patchy or sparse areas, but don't get discouraged! Embrace the process and give it time. Over time, those uneven spots tend to fill in, resulting in a fuller and more impressive beard.
However, some have an unfortunate skin condition known as beard Alopecia. It's a permanent bald spot on parts of your beard that either strong medication or cosmetic surgery can only cure it. So if it's taking too long to have a fuller beard, it's perhaps because of genetic factors involved.
Beard myth #8. Professional trim from a barber
Do you need to get a beard trim from your barber every time you need to remove flyaways or frizzy beard hair? Not necessarily.
Whether you want a classic or trendy look, a barber can create a hairstyle that suits you perfectly. But you can't always go to your barber every time, especially on days when you have a hectic schedule. So it's good to invest in a good beard trimmer and learn how to trim your facial hair at home.
Beard myth #9. Rubbing your chin
The belief is that rubbing your skin promotes hair growth. Despite what you may have heard, there's no scientific evidence to back this up.
The truth is the growth of facial hair is mainly controlled by hormones like testosterone, which are largely influenced by genetics. So, no matter how vigorously you rub your face, it won't magically sprout a thick beard. In fact, all that rubbing can actually lead to irritation and redness rather than a majestic mane. So, instead of wasting time on rubbing rituals, you should find out whether you have beard genes or not.
Beard myth #10. Only for dark-haired men
Let's shatter another myth: the belief that only dark beards look good. It's time to challenge that stereotype!
While many people envision a dark-haired man with a full beard as the epitome of facial hair, grey or light-haired men can rock an impressive beard too. In fact, once fair-haired men allow their beards to grow out and gain some length, the true magic begins. When the sun's rays catch those strands of a longer, lighter-colored beard, they'll witness the remarkable transformation it brings.
Final thoughts
Throughout this blog, we have addressed ten common misconceptions surrounding beards, such as beard itch, comfort in hot weather, and the idea that your beard might have poop. By separating fact from fiction, we aim to promote a better understanding of beard care and encourage individuals to embrace their beards with accurate knowledge.
Now that we have shown you the truth about beards, you can fully take care of your beards. Visit our store for all of your beard care needs!
