Why Some Men Can’t Grow Beards

You have what seems to be all the required components, you’re a man, you have a face, you have testosterone, why can’t you grow a decent beard?

I’ve always wondered the same, but it turns out there’s actually a logical reason behind it…

I had always just assumed that testosterone levels alone determine your ability to grow a full, luscious beard. I mean, it makes sense right? More testosterone results in a thicker, faster growing beard, but that’s not exactly the case. Beard growth is actually caused by a chemical called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is a highly concentrated form of testosterone. Although this chemical induces beard growth, it also induces baldness on the scalp.

This is where it gets even trickier…

The ability to grow a majestic beard is solely determined by the number of androgen receptors you have in the upper level of your skin. The more androgen receptors you have, the more DHT can bind to them which will cause more beard growth. Unfortunately, the outcome is completely opposite in regards to the scalp. The number of androgen receptors a man has is a hand dealt by genetics and there’s not much we can do to change it.

That doesn’t make sense. Why does it cause more hair growth on my face but less on my head? Interestingly enough, there’s a different gene expression based on the different type of hair follicles. This is why so many bald men have glorious beards, and let’s face it, it’s a pretty badass look.

Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. There are some bald men who can’t grow beards, just like there are men with long locks and that have great beards.

Would you trade the hair on your head for an epic beard? Or even vice versa? Let us know your thoughts!

Thanks so much for reading!

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Until next time, you bring the beard, I'll bring the booze!