Beards are hot. There’s little doubt about it.
And with Prince William making the front page recently with his summer ‘Royal Beard’ maintenance, it begs the question of why the world finds facial hair so attractive. According to Annabelle Knight, sex and relationship expert at Lovehoney, it’s all down to science…
It accentuates your features
“Beards can help accentuate the best features of your face; highlighting a strong jawline or sharp cheekbones, or bringing attention to eyes. And we all have our insecurities, and if a person’s are ‘face-based’ a beard gives an extra layer of protection. Not that people need something to hide behind, but let’s not pretend that having something to mask these gives us an extra boost of self-confidence. Speaking of…”
It makes you feel more confident
“If you’re so inclined, you can read all sorts of studies regarding facial hair and its impact on a person’s confidence; given their ancient symbolism with strength, maturity and virility. So it’s little wonder that someone’s self-esteem might receive a boost if they looked into the mirror to see a bearded face.
“Other studies have also suggested that beards can be intimidating, on a subconscious level, and who doesn’t want to feel more subliminally dominant? Studies have suggested that bearded men – compared to their clean-shaven brethren – were rated higher on more traditionally alpha qualities; seen as more “masculine, more socially dominant and aggressive looking.
“Confidence is incredibly important to attraction; it’s something that practically everyone looks for in a partner. Feel more confident, and you’ll feel far more yourself.”
It shows you take care of yourself
“The attractiveness of your facial hair comes down to one key factor: grooming – regardless of whether you opt for a certain length of stubble or go full lumberjack. It’s not enough that a person can grow facial hair, but they also need to keep up with the appearance and maintenance – this exudes maturity and confidence – an irresistible combination.”
It makes you appear older
“Beards are often linked with maturity, experience, and wisdom. While you don’t have to go full Gandalf, the association between being a “grown up” and facial hair can make a man with a beard seem older than his actual age. And also seem like he’s got his s**t together at the very least.”
