HomeAnswersDermatologybeardWhy some men cannot grow full beards?

Explain why some men are not capable of growing full beards.

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Rabia Anjum

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At November 10, 2019
Reviewed AtAugust 9, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Why some men cannot grow full beards? Explain why some men are not capable of growing full beards, and can only manage thin, patchy ones. Is this due to testosterone and genetics or something more? How does not being able to grow a full beard potentially impact men psychologically? Can this be emasculating for men or cause issues with self-esteem? Is there anything patchy men can do?

Answered by Dr. Rabia Anjum

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Some men cannot grow full beard due to the low density of hair follicles in the beard area in them and that depends on their genes and hormones. The male hormone testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone by 5 alpha-reductase. Dihydrotestosterone is a potent steroid and is responsible for beard growth and male pattern hair loss at the same time.

There are certain conditions that can lead to patchy beard hair loss that as alopecia areata. It is an autoimmune disease and is treatable with topical, oral, and intralesional steroids. In alopecia areata, men can have their beards grow back. Men who naturally have few beard hairs can be emotionally upset because maybe they feel less masculine, which may lead to anxiety, depression, excessive worrisome, and impact on the psychological health of the person. Others may not be bothered about it much. As hormones are responsible for it, it is not a good idea to take hormone supplements only for beard hair growth because it can have other side effects too. However, good oil massage, along with biotin supplements and the latest techniques of hair follicle transplant and PRP have good results.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Rabia Anjum
Dr. Rabia Anjum

Dermatology

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