The Reason You Can't Grow A Beard Is Probably Down To Genetics

If you're one of the people who looks at those with big bushy beards and wonders why they can't have a piece of the action, science might just have an answer for you.

You see, there are some pretty simple reasons why many folks have to make do with only a light fuzz, or nothing whatsoever, whereas others end up looking like Vikings or Spartan warriors.

The first - and most simple - reason is genetics.

That means that you don't have to worry about anything from the start, it's just how you're put together, and we're all put together differently.

Amy McMichael, a dermatologist from Wake Forest Baptist Health in North Carolina, told Elite Daily: "The largest factor that determines beard growth is really genetics.

"Some [people] simply have genetics such that hair follicles are sparse or hair growth is slow."

There you go, if you're wired up like that, you're probably better off not bothering with the facial fuzz in the first instance.

Of course, there are other reasons.

Loads of people point to testosterone as a key to beard growth, but it's not exactly that; it's how you process that hormone and how sensitive you are to it.

Dr Kristen Irene Lo Sicco, another expert on the matter, explained: "In regards to facial hair, testosterone stimulates its growth and oestrogen slows it."

McMichael added that having low testosterone isn't actually a big cause of low beard growth.

That means that it has nothing to do with the outdating concept of 'manliness' or virility, when it comes to testosterone levels.

She said: "Poor beard growth alone is rarely a signal of low testosterone,

"Because testosterone has a role in many other process[es], it is likely that other symptoms would be noticed as well if it were low."

Shaving isn't going to help you either. That myth has long since been busted.

McMichael continued: "The idea that someone can change the number of hair follicles or diameter and density of hair shafts is a myth.

"Shaving does not increase hair growth and this is a long-held myth that should be dispelled."

Obviously, there are also a number of medical conditions that could play their part.

For example, suffers of alopecia will struggle to grow facial hair. Those with alopecia areata could lose hair in one specific area that was previously full of hair.

That could be for a number of reasons, including physical trauma, severe acne, or stress.

Of course, if you're struggling with any of those things, and losing your hair in places that you shouldn't be, it's worth talking to a doctor or a dermatologist about it.

In the meantime, don't worry if you can't grow a massive bushy beard. It's just your genetics, after all.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Science, Interesting, Weird

Tom Wood

Tom Wood is a LADbible journalist and Twin Peaks enthusiast. Despite having a career in football cut short by a chronic lack of talent, he managed to obtain degrees from both the University of London and Salford. According to his French teacher, at the weekend he mostly likes to play football and go to the park with his brother. Contact Tom on [email protected]

@TPWagwim