Why is everyone’s rate of hair growth different? It can be confusing, but there a lot of variables. In biology, genetics plays a significant role in hair growth. When puberty hits, the beard starts to develop, and the hormone that is responsible for it is called DHT or dihydrotestosterone – which is a by-product of testosterone. Well, not everyone’s genes are the same. So, levels of testosterone and DHT naturally varies from one person to another. Some men will need to use their beard trimmer more often than others!
About DHT
Dihydrotestosterone is an endogenous androgen sex steroid and hormone. It is formed from testosterone and helps with the development of male sex characteristics, such as facial and body hair growth.
An enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase (5-AR) causes the conversion of DHT from testosterone in tissues such as the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, epididymides, skin, hair follicles, liver, and brain. DHT is also considered more potent than testosterone, and many of the effects of testosterone in the body only begin after converting it to DHT.
Almost 10% of the testosterone that is produced daily is converted to DHT, mainly by the prostate and testes. But the percentage is lower before puberty; that’s why beards can be seen in some teens and adults – not in babies. Beard growth is linked to stimulation of hair follicles in the area by DHT, which affects beard growth even after puberty continuously.
Hair Loss and Hair Growth
DHT is a common factor in male pattern baldness. Though it’s essential for beard growth, DHT isn’t your head hair’s best friend.
According to research, DHT triggers the receptors and causes the hair follicles to miniaturise or shrink. But again, genetics comes into play in terms of sensitivity to those receptors. The combination of hormonal and genetic factors can explain why some people lose their hair than others.
But on the brighter side – especially on growing a beard, high levels of testosterone leading to high amounts of DHT are the key to having a thick and full-grown beard. On the other hand, men with lower levels of T and DHT may have less facial hair growth. When your body is sensitive to hormones, you’ll probably grow a beard earlier than others. But it doesn’t mean that even when you’re in the adult stage and still have a patchy beard, you have lower hormone levels. It’s just that the follicles on your face could be less sensitive to the effects of DHT.
For more information, here are the phases of the beard growth cycle:
- Anagen
The growing phase. Hair grows between 2 to 6 years, approximately 1cm in 28 days. The cells in the root of the hair are dividing at a fast pace, and this phase determines how long your beard will become. But some men have a shorter anagen phase than others, and over time it decreases and affects the hair’s strength.
- Catagen
The transitional phase. This phase lasts only for 2 to 3 weeks. Hair stops growing and undergoes a process that cuts it off from the blood supply. It allows the hair follicle to renew itself.
- Telogen
The resting phase. This phase lasts for about 100 days for head hairs and longer for other parts. The follicle is now inactive and ready to be replaced by new ones. So, beard hair naturally shreds off at this point.
DHT Blockers and Testosterone Boosters
DHT blockers can help to slow down hair loss, which leads to baldness for most men. These blockers can be taken orally and come in the topical form found in most product ingredients, such as aloe vera, argan oil, coconut oil, grape seed oil, and more.
In contrast, these blockers may hinder your beard’s growth and prevent DHT from attaching to the 5-AR receptors in the follicles. But don’t panic! As a bearded guy, you probably knew about beard oil and its benefits. And yes, some brands use ingredients that have DHT inhibitors. So, opt for DHT-friendly beard oil. A kind of beard oil that is meticulously formulated and doesn’t inhibit the body’s natural formation of DHT and resulting in a soft, fully grown, healthy beard.
On the other hand, if you have low testosterone and DHT levels, you can definitely supplement and boost it naturally. Here are some of the most important and easiest ways to do:
- Enough sleep
Don’t deprive yourself of sleep. Sleep for at least 8 hours each night. Testosterone is produced during REM sleep, so if you’re sleeping less than 8 hours, your T levels drop to a low percentage.
- Eat right
Have a healthy diet but first consult with your doctor. Eat protein-rich foods but not too much. You should at least get 20% of your calories from protein. Fats that are found in nuts, avocados, and salmon also increase testosterone. You should at least get 30% of your calories from saturated and monounsaturated fats. Carbs found in rice, potatoes, and fruits also helps. You should at least get 40% of your calories from carbohydrates.
- Take vitamins
Again, try to consult with your doctor first about taking supplements for boosting your T levels. Your body doesn’t get all the nutrients it needs. Thus, taking multivitamins is a good option.
- Proper exercise
Moderate to intense exercises such as weightlifting, squats, jogging, cycling, swimming, push-ups, bench presses, etc., are proven to help stimulate testosterone production. Focus your workouts on your muscles and get a trainer to have a proper routine on the exercise machines. But don’t overdo it; it may cause your T levels to drop.
So now you know how hormones significantly affect your beard growth. DHT can make you bald, yet DHT can make your beard reach its full potential. Don’t self-medicate; always consult with your doctor. Follow all the natural ways, keep growing, and stay healthy!
We hope this article helped you understand what it takes to grow the beard you want. Beard Guru supplies a range of products to support your beard growing journey, including Australia’s favourite beard trimmer. Purchase your beard’s new best friend today and start living the bearded life you deserve. Don’t like any of our products for any reason? Send it back for a full refund, and we’ll even pay for the return. Back your best look with Beard Guru.