Why Men Have Beards
Beards have been part of human history for thousands of years. Our team in Chesham explores the biology, evolution and culture behind why men grow facial hair.
Why Do Men Grow Beards?
Men grow beards because of hormones. During puberty, rising levels of testosterone and a related hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) act on hair follicles on the face. These follicles switch from producing fine, light vellus hair to thick, pigmented terminal hair. The upper lip usually responds first, followed by the chin, cheeks and jaw. The process continues gradually for years, which is why many men do not reach their full beard until their late twenties or thirties.
The more interesting question is why this happens at all. Why did humans evolve to have facial hair that differs so clearly between men and women? Scientists have proposed several explanations, from attracting partners to signalling maturity and status. At Broadway Barbers in Chesham we spend every day shaping beards, so we have gathered the main ideas into one guide. It covers the biology, the evolutionary theories and how beards have shaped history and culture.
Whatever the original reason, beards today are mostly a matter of personal style. Men choose them for confidence, comfort and self expression. Understanding where they come from can make you appreciate your own beard a little more.
What Is the Biology Behind Beard Growth?
The main male sex hormone. Rising levels during puberty trigger the development of facial hair.
A more potent form of testosterone. Beard follicles are especially sensitive to it, which drives thicker growth.
Largely inherited. It explains why men with similar hormone levels grow very different beards.
The thick, pigmented hair that makes up a beard, replacing the fine vellus hair of childhood.
Interestingly, DHT has opposite effects on different parts of the body. It encourages beard growth but can contribute to hair loss on the scalp in men who are genetically prone. This is why some men have a full beard and a receding hairline at the same time.
What Are the Main Theories on Why Beards Evolved?
| Theory | The Idea | Supporting Evidence | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual selection | Beards helped attract partners | Darwin proposed this in 1871. Some studies link beards with perceived maturity | Widely discussed |
| Signalling dominance | Beards made men look older and more formidable to rivals | Studies suggest bearded faces are rated as more dominant and aggressive | Moderate |
| Signalling maturity | Beards mark the transition to adulthood | Beard growth tracks sexual maturity closely | Strong |
| Protection | Hair cushions the jaw from blows | A 2020 University of Utah study found fleece samples absorbed more impact energy | Limited |
| Warmth and sun protection | Beards protect the face from the elements | Beards do block some UV light | Limited |
Most researchers agree that beards are primarily a social signal. They mark a man as sexually mature and may influence how he is perceived by both potential partners and rivals.
How Did Beards Develop Through History?
- 1Ancient civilisations
In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, beards were linked to status and divinity. Pharaohs even wore false beards for ceremonies.
- 2Ancient Greece
Beards symbolised wisdom and virility. Philosophers were often portrayed with full beards.
- 3Ancient Rome
Clean shaven faces became fashionable. The first shave marked a young man's coming of age.
- 4Medieval Europe
Beards were common and often linked to honour. Touching another man's beard could be a serious insult.
- 5Victorian Britain
Full beards became hugely popular in the mid 1800s, linked to ideas of masculinity and health.
- 6Twentieth century
Clean shaven looks dominated for decades, driven by military rules and the safety razor.
- 7Twenty first century
Beards returned in force from the 2010s. Well groomed facial hair is now mainstream.
Beards have come a long way. A good trim never goes out of style. A beard trim at Broadway Barbers starts from £8, with a trim and razor shape up for £20. Open seven days a week in Chesham.
How Popular Are Beards Today?
Beard popularity rises and falls with fashion. Since around 2010, facial hair has become far more common in the UK than it was in the late twentieth century. The chart below shows the general popularity of different facial hair styles among our Chesham customers.
Research published in 2014 suggested that beard trends may partly follow a pattern known as negative frequency dependence. When beards are rare, they are rated as more attractive. As they become common, clean shaven faces start to stand out more. That may help explain why beard fashions come and go.
Whatever style you wear, see our Beard Trim Prices for beard trims and cut and beard combinations at Broadway Barbers in Chesham.
What Do Beards Say About a Man Today?
| Beard Style | Common Perception | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy stubble | Masculine and approachable | Often rated highly in studies |
| Short, well groomed beard | Mature and confident | Grooming matters more than length |
| Full beard | Strong and experienced | Associated with maturity |
| Long, unkempt beard | Relaxed or rugged | Perception depends heavily on grooming |
| Clean shaven | Youthful and tidy | Stands out when beards are common |
Perception is heavily influenced by grooming. A well kept beard of any length is generally viewed more positively than an untidy one. If you are curious about how beards are perceived by others, our guide on Do Women Like Beards looks at the research in more detail.
Do Beards Have Any Practical Benefits?
Beyond appearance, beards may offer a few practical advantages. A thick beard provides some protection from the sun on the lower face, although it is no substitute for sun cream. Facial hair also traps a layer of warm air, which can make a difference in cold, windy weather. Some men find that growing a beard reduces the razor bumps and irritation they get from daily shaving, particularly men with curly facial hair.
There are trade offs too. Beards need regular washing, conditioning and trimming to stay clean and comfortable. A neglected beard can trap food, sweat and dead skin, which leads to itching and flakes. That is why good grooming habits matter as much as growth itself.
How Do Beards Differ Around the World?
Beard density and growth patterns vary between populations. Men of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian descent often grow denser beards on average, while men of East Asian descent often have lighter facial hair. These are broad averages with plenty of individual variation. Cultural and religious traditions also shape how beards are worn, from full uncut beards to neatly trimmed styles.
Why Can Some Men Not Grow Beards?
Because beard growth depends on follicle sensitivity to hormones, some men grow very little facial hair despite having normal testosterone levels. Genetics, age and ethnic background all play a part. For many men, beard growth continues to improve well into their thirties. In rare cases, a medical condition may be involved.
For more on growth, read How to Grow a Beard. If your beard is sparse, see Why You Cannot Grow a Beard. To explore how others view facial hair, read Do Women Like Beards.
How Can a Barber Help You Make the Most of Your Beard?
Whatever the evolutionary reason, a beard today is a personal choice and a style statement. A good barber helps you choose a shape that suits your face and keeps it looking sharp. At Broadway Barbers our senior barbers Dan, Harry, Ann and Catherine each have their own Booksy profile. You can choose your barber and book ahead.
We are open seven days a week, including Sundays, with late opening until 8pm on Thursdays.
For more beard advice, explore the Beard Grooming Hub, where every Broadway Barbers guide on growth, styling and grooming is gathered in one place.
From the history of beards to growing, shaping and caring for your own, the Beard Grooming Hub brings together practical advice from barbers who have been cutting beards in Chesham since 2001.