The growth of beard hair is a process that is largely determined by your genes. Each hair on your body follows a specific cycle of phases in which it grows, falls out, and regrows until it eventually stops growing, typically as you age.
The Role of Hormones in Beard Growth
Beard hair growth is influenced by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts your body’s natural stores of testosterone into another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT then attaches to receptors on each follicle of your beard hair, stimulating its growth. However, more testosterone does not necessarily mean more beard hair. The growth of beard hair is actually more influenced by how sensitive your follicles are to DHT, a trait primarily determined by your genes.
Contrary to popular belief, no artificial testosterone intake or any other supplement has been proven to help beard hair grow. In fact, taking DHT can even slow down your hair growth.
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Natural Ways to Promote Beard Growth
While you can’t change your genetic makeup, there are several natural ways that may help you grow a longer or thicker beard and keep it healthier for longer.
Diet and Exercise
Certain vitamins, such as vitamin D and B vitamins, have been linked to healthy hair growth. Regular exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training (HIIT), can boost testosterone levels, which may in turn help promote hair growth.
Sleep Quality and Skin Care
Getting enough high-quality sleep is crucial as lack of sleep has been linked to a reduction in the body’s natural production of testosterone. Maintaining clean, moisturized skin can also contribute to healthy hair growth.
Lifestyle Changes
Quitting smoking, which has been linked to hair loss, may allow your beard to grow by reducing blood vessel damage and inflammation. Microneedling, a process that involves poking tiny holes in your face with extremely small needles, is purported to help with hair growth by increasing blood flow to your follicles and encouraging healthier hair.
The Hair Growth Cycle
Hair growth follows a cycle that includes the anagen phase (active growth phase), the catagen phase (transitional phase), and the telogen phase (resting phase). Your hair grows and renews itself constantly, and over time, you may notice a different beard pattern from follicles growing and regrowing.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re losing large chunks of hair quickly and suddenly, it’s important to see a doctor. They may recommend using prescription-strength medications like minoxidil (Rogaine) to regrow hair that you’ve lost as you age, or suggest a hair transplant if you want to restore large areas of hair quickly.
Conclusion
While there’s no way to make your beard hair grow faster, there are plenty of things you can do that may help your beard hair grow in thicker, stronger, and healthier. Try adjusting your diet, lifestyle, and daily hygiene habits to see what works for you.
