Like the hair on top of your head, facial hair can be incredibly flattering to your face. And today more than ever, we seem to have an ever-growing list of facial hair styles to choose from. From a thin mustache to a full beard and everything in between, facial hair has a lot more to do with style and appearance than with keeping faces warm.

But not all of us are blessed with perfect and plentiful facial hair that we can groom any way we like. Some of us struggle to grow much facial hair at all while others have significant and noticeable patches. Why does this happen and what can you do about it? Read on to find out.

What Determines Facial Hair Growth?

For most men who struggle with facial hair growth (or hair growth in general), the cause is most often genetics. If your father or grandfather had difficulty growing facial hair, chances are you may as well.

Having low testosterone can also negatively affect facial hair growth. Low testosterone can be characterized by a host of symptoms, including erectile dysfunction, infertility, decreased muscle mass, just to name a few. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your primary healthcare provider.

In rare cases, certain skin conditions can be to blame for a lack of facial hair growth, as can an underactive thyroid, and certain nutrient deficiencies.

Boosting Facial Hair Growth

While there are countless supplements and products promising to help you achieve a fuller beard, goatee, or mustache, most of them lack scientific credibility. Some studies have shown that vitamin D can activate dormant hair follicles while vitamins B-12, biotin, and niacin can strengthen and condition hair.

And remember, healthy hair requires a healthy lifestyle which includes the following:

• Eat a variety of nutrient rich foods
• Drink plenty of water
• Get regular exercise
• Get plenty of rest, including quality sleep
• Reduce stress or seek ways to manage it
• Don’t smoke and limit alcohol intake
• Take care of your skin, including the scalp

While these may not instantly deliver the lush hair you desire, they will help make the hair you do have as healthy as it can be.

Still, the healthiest of lifestyles may not be enough. If you’re struggling to grow facial hair or are experiencing hair thinning or loss, talk to the hair restoration experts at DiStefano. We’re here to answer all your questions and help you become a new and more confident you. Contact us today for a free consultation.