Growing a beard already takes patience; chasing bad advice only drags the clock out further. So let’s separate six of the loudest myths from what dermatologists and trichologists actually know, then finish with a simple, science-backed game plan you can act on tonight.
1. “Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker”
The myth: The fresh edge of a razor “activates” dormant follicles, so every pass boosts density.
The science: When you cut a cylinder straight across, the blunt tip feels coarser as it grows out. But the number of follicles below the skin stays exactly the same. Multiple controlled studies dating back to the 1920s confirm zero change in diameter or growth rate after repeated shaving.
Take-away: Trim for shape; don’t expect miracles.
2. “Patchy Cheeks Mean You’ll Never Fill In”
Patchiness in your early-twenties beard usually reflects follicle maturity, not a lifetime sentence. Hair cycles through growth (anagen) and rest (telogen). Some cheek follicles switch on later than chin or moustache zones. Many men see natural thickening into their late twenties, especially when they look after circulation, nutrition and skin health.
3. “Beard Oil Alone Makes Hair Grow”
We make beard oil. Trust us, we wish it were that powerful. Oils condition skin, cut down on breakage and make existing hairs look fuller, but they can’t switch new follicles on. Think of oil as fertiliser in an already planted garden: essential, but not the seed itself.
In the same vein, don't fall for other fad products that advertise beard growth. The only clinically proven product that directly grows hair is minoxidil, contact your local doctor if you wish to explore minoxidil treatment.
4. “It’s 100 % Genetics, Nothing You Do Helps”
Genes set the maximum potential, but lifestyle decides how close you get:
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Nutrition: Protein, zinc and vitamin D influence keratin production and hormone pathways.
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Sleep: Growth hormone is primarily released while sleeping, meaning that proper sleep can help to increase your beard gains.
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Stress: Cortisol (the stress hormone) shortens anagen phases. Even a daily ten minute walk can help to lower cortisol levels and lengthen growth phases.
Clinical data shows men deficient in zinc or D3 can improve beard density after correcting those gaps. Genetics write the script, but you still direct the play.
5. “Testosterone Boosters Equal Bigger Beard”
Men with medically low testosterone often grow patchy beards, so the supplement industry leapt to a half-truth. In healthy men, circulating testosterone already saturates beard follicles; mega-dosing or popping dubious “herbal boosters” doesn’t move the needle, but can invite acne and mood swings. If you suspect a hormone issue, see a doctor, not a banner ad.
