Nathaniel Fried
During the month of November, men all over the world are growing out their facial hair in support of Movember and/or No-Shave November. These charities help to spread awareness and raise money for various men’s health issues. So whether you grow out a full beard or strive for a handlebar mustache, here are seven reasons why you should participate:
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Raise awareness and charity
Raising money for charity and spreading awareness are always noble pursuits. Not only will you feel great about the work you’ve done, but many people find giving back to charity to be an attractive trait in men. Many men’s health issues go untreated because there is a lack of awareness and a stigma surrounding conversations/going to the doctor. Did you know that 1 out of 9 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lifetime? Check out both the Movember and No-Shave November websites to find more information and resources.
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Facial hair is more attractive
According to a study by the Journal of Evolutionary Biology, women find a man with facial hair inherently more attractive. When 8,520 women participants were shown pictures of the same men with various levels of facial hair, the clean-shaven look was found to be the least attractive! The overall winner was heavy stubble, but the different types of facial hair also signaled different levels of commitment. Women found men with a beard more desirable to enter a long-term relationship, and men with stubble the best for a short-term relationship/one-night stand.
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Beards convey confidence/trust
Everyone knows that beards can signify a level of maturity, but there are plenty of other traits that are associated with facial hair. Beards can make you feel more confident, but can also give you that perception as well. Another study found that men with beards are perceived to be trustworthy. Both not bad traits to give off.
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Save time
There is nothing worse than rushing to shave during your morning routine because you forgot to wake up earlier enough. Not to mention all the cuts and nicks! By growing out a beard, you save yourself valuable time, which you can use for other fun activities. According to a survey by Bluebeards Revenge, men spend 45 days during their lifetime shaving. Don’t forget about all the money you’ll save on shaving materials too!
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Protect the face from elements
During the harsh months of winter, the cold air and elements can take a toll on our skin. While the rest of us may be covered up, our face is typically the most vulnerable. Facial hair can help keep our face nice and warm despite the cold wind that causes dry skin. This warmth can also protect against acne and cold sores, which are more easily triggered by cool, dry air. And even though the days are shorter and more cloudy, powerful UV rays from the sun can still do plenty of damage. According to researchers from The University of Queensland, beards can protect against up to 95% or UV rays.
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Keep you healthy
A beard can act as your first line of defense for numerous ailments. The hairs can catch bacteria and allergens before they enter through the mouth or nose. Without protection, this bacteria can cause/worsen respiratory issues such as asthma, throat disease, and even gum disease! Since there is no need to shave, you can also avoid bacteria entering your body through the cuts and nicks caused by shaving. Just remember to keep your beard clean since it will be trapping everything you are trying to avoid.
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Appear more intelligent
In a study of LinkedIn profiles, men with beards were found to be perceived as having more expertise. Picture all of the great thinkers in history. Darwin, Aristotle, Da Vinci. These men and many more sported beards. Obviously, growing a beard does not actually improve our intelligence, but we certainly perceive it as such. Not to mention, stroking your beard is fun. What better way to signal that you are deep in thought?
