In short, I’m afraid it’s down to genetics! But there are a few hints and tips to help.
Make your facial hair grow faster
Diet
You are what you eat.
As for all hair and skin, water, and a diet rich in B vitamins, vitamin A, C and E, folic acid, magnesium, omega-3 and zinc gives hair the nourishment it needs to grow. This will come from eating grains, red meat, oily fish, leafy greens, seeds, fruits and vegetables, but if you’re not getting all your nutrition from your diet, consider multivitamins and supplements as a top up.
Look after your skin
The healthier your skin, the better your beard will look (even if you can’t see the skin underneath your beard it’s important to keep it in good nick).
Us men are getting better at using products. Try a facial scrub to remove dead follicles and facial wash to keep the skin spic and span, followed by a moisturiser. Every four to six weeks book in for a face mask the next time you go for your hair and beard treatment to keep your skin looking calm and refreshed. And if you like your gadgets, using a derma roller for your beard will stimulate collagen production and promote hair growth.
Do not over trim your beard
Facial hair takes time, often several weeks, to sprout into its full potential, so don’t reach for the razor too soon. It may be that it’s not lack of growth but lack of time. Shaving or trimming your beard will not encourage growth. Give it time, then choose the beard style that suits you; get your barber to help. (Head over to our blogs on beard styles.)
Give your beard some TLC
To grow a long and strong beard, show it some love.
Get into the routine of washing your facial hair with a dedicated shampoo once or twice a week, brushing it and applying a nourishing beard oil to keep what you have in good condition, helping to avoid breakage.
Lead a stress-free life. Yeah right!
Stress has been proven to stunt hair growth, but we can’t all be zen with the stresses that we encounter in everyday modern life. For those that don’t do meditation or wellness retreats, try getting your 8-hour sleep quota, exercise and making time to relax from your emails and work.
… Talking of exercise …
The two main hormones that stimulate beard growth are testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), both of which are produced during resistance training (such as weightlifting). For maximum results, opt for a full-body workout, which creates more of a spike than a single exercise, such as a bicep curl.
Work with what you have
Some will consider beard transplants, which has risen in popularity but is hard on the wallet. So instead, turn to your trusted professional barber to help guide you in what style and length will suit you best.
Most barbers will be able to recommend products. The more natural the better. Trust us, your beard with thank you.
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