It is a question that plagues many a man up and down the country, why can’t I grow a beard? Almost you would have attempted to grow a beard at some point, only to be left with patchy disappointment and broken dreams.
Beards are traditionally a sign of masculinity and virility – by making the jawline appear bigger and stronger, beards help present a formidable image, signifying strength. From cavemen to Abraham Lincoln, beards have long played a role in intimidation and masculinity.
What does this mean if I can’t grow a beard however? That I cannot be a man? Quite the opposite, whereas a beard may be a strong sign of strength and masculinity – it isn’t the only indicator. A cool dress sense, frequent trips to the barber and some focus on the gym can help in this department. If you are looking for some easy exercises to start with in the gym, check this out.
This still doesn’t answer the age old question though, why can’t I grow a beard? Some men, no matter how hard they try, cannot grow a beard. Left in an eternal state of ‘baby-face’, apparently it has something to do with hormones.
Beards are produced by a chemical known as dihydrotestosterone, which derives from testosterone and we all know what that is for. Whether you can grow a beard or not is dictated by how your body reacts to testosterone. Most men should have similar levels, and men with thicker beards will be more sensitive and responsive to testosterone – synthesising dihydrotestosterone, which then leads to strong beard growth.
Interestingly enough, men who are more sensitive to testosterone however – are more likely to go bald. So if you’re currently surrounded by thick-bearded hipsters and feeling a little left out, be comforted in knowing you’ll at least keep the hair on your head.
The long and the short of it is that it has nothing to do with masculinity and it all boils down to genetics, so thats another thing you can blame mum and dad for! Beards it appears, aren’t for everyone…
