The claim that exercise promotes beard growth is common around the Internet. The explanation that is the most common is that heavy exercising increases the testosterone levels in the body and that in turn increases beard growth.
Does exercise indeed increase the beard growth and if so is the "increased testosterone levels from training leading to increased beard growth" explanation correct?
Yes, exercise does indeed seem to have a positive effect on beard growth, but it's not a direct one. This is primarily due to the fact that certain types of exercise, such as weightlifting and other forms of explosive training, can help to raise the levels of testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in the body. These hormones are necessary for facial hair growth.
Testosterone primes the facial hair follicles for thicker growth, while DHT has a linear growth enhancing effect. Therefore, anything that has a positive impact on these two hormones tends to result in better, healthier, stronger beard growth.
In addition to hormone production, exercise also improves blood circulation, which can be beneficial to beard growth by nourishing beard follicles. Improved circulation allows more nutrient-rich blood to reach the hair follicles, promoting healthier and more robust beard growth.
However, it's important to note that while exercise can enhance beard growth, it doesn't guarantee a full beard for everyone. Genetics also play a significant role in determining the thickness and fullness of a person's beard. So, while some men might notice a significant increase in beard growth with regular exercise, others might only see a modest improvement.
In summary, while the "increased testosterone levels from training leading to increased beard growth" explanation is somewhat simplified, it is fundamentally correct. Exercise can boost the production of key hormones that promote beard growth and improve blood circulation to the hair follicles. However, individual results can vary widely depending on genetic factors.
Sources:
Two studies support this claim:
Margaret Chieffi; Effect of Testosterone Administration on the Beard Growth of Elderly Males. J Gerontol 1949; 4 (3): 200-204. doi: 10.1093/geronj/4.3.200;
Testosterone metabolism by cultured human beard outer root sheath cells in comparison with epidermal keratinocytes. Journal of Dermatological Science Volume 6, Issue 3, December 1993, Pages 214-218.
Both studies state that increased testosterone levels leads to increased beard growth for males, but both studies worked with men who were already able to grow beards.
However, there is no evidence to show that men who cannot grow beards in the first place were able to grow beards by increasing their testosterone levels.
