Can't Grow a Beard? Try These 5 Beard Growing Hacks

Can You Hack Beard Growth?

For many men, a full, thick beard is a hallmark of confidence and style.

But for some, achieving that ideal beard can be a frustrating challenge due to slow growth, patchy areas, or an almost non existent beard.

While genetics play a major role in determining how your beard grows, they don’t tell the entire story.

So what if you could hack your beard growth?

There are proven ways to encourage and boost facial hair growth that go beyond the basic advice you may have heard.

Below are five innovative beard growing hacks backed by science and practical insights that can help you finally achieve the beard you want.

1. Microneedling: More Than Just a Skin Treatment

Microneedling is a popular cosmetic technique used to stimulate collagen production and rejuvenate the skin, but it’s also gaining traction as an effective method for promoting hair growth, including beards.

This method involves using a handheld tool with tiny needles that create micro injuries in the skin.

These controlled micro injuries trigger the body's natural healing response, increasing blood flow and releasing growth factors that can activate dormant hair follicles.

How Microneedling Works for Beard Growth: When you use a microneedling tool, such as a derma roller, on your facial hair area, you’re essentially waking up inactive follicles and improving nutrient delivery to the roots.

Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology has shown that microneedling can be effective in boosting hair density when used alongside topical treatments.

Combining with Topical Solutions: One of the best ways to maximize the effects of microneedling is to combine it with topical beard growth serums or minoxidil, a well-known hair growth agent. The micro-channels created during microneedling allow for better absorption of these growth-promoting products, enhancing their efficacy.

How to Use Microneedling Safely:

• Start with a derma roller with needle lengths between 0.5mm and 1.0mm. This range is optimal for stimulating hair growth without causing excessive skin damage.

• Roll gently over the beard area 1-2 times per week to encourage growth without irritation.

• Always sterilize the derma roller before and after each use with isopropyl alcohol to prevent infection.

• Apply a hydrating serum post-treatment to soothe the skin and promote healing.

Pro Tip: Be patient and consistent. Results may take a few months, but when combined with a well-rounded routine, microneedling can be a powerful tool in your beard growth arsenal.

2. Apply Minoxidil to Your Beard

Minoxidil, an over the counter hair growth treatment commonly used for the scalp, has been found effective for facial hair growth when used off-label. Originally developed as a medication for high blood pressure, it was discovered that one of its side effects was promoting hair growth.

Minoxidil works by widening blood vessels and opening potassium channels, allowing more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the hair follicles. This can stimulate the hair growth phase and increase beard density.

Research Supporting Beard Application: Studies in the International Journal of Dermatology have demonstrated that applying a 5% minoxidil solution can lead to significant improvements in facial hair density. Participants who applied minoxidil consistently for 4-6 months noticed thicker and more even beard growth.

How to Safely Use Minoxidil:

• Apply a small amount of minoxidil solution to clean, dry skin on the beard area once or twice daily.
  

• Massage it gently to ensure it’s absorbed by the skin.
  

• Wait for the solution to dry before applying any other products or touching your face.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions: Some users report dryness, mild irritation, or peeling skin when using minoxidil. To counteract this, consider using a moisturizing beard oil or balm that contains hydrating ingredients like jojoba or argan oil after the minoxidil has dried.

Pro Tip: Avoid applying minoxidil too close to bedtime to prevent it from spreading to unintended areas while you sleep. Always wash your hands after applying to prevent unwanted hair growth on other parts of your body.

3. Optimize Your Diet for Beard Friendly Nutrients

Your diet plays a crucial role in the health and growth of your hair, including facial hair. Nutrients fuel your body’s ability to produce healthy hair, and deficiencies can significantly impact beard growth.

Essential Nutrients for Beard Growth:

• Biotin: Known as Vitamin H, biotin is essential for keratin production, the protein that makes up hair. Foods high in biotin include eggs, almonds, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Research shows that biotin supplements can help strengthen hair and promote growth.
  

• Zinc: This mineral supports DNA synthesis and cell repair, both crucial for healthy hair follicles. Zinc deficiency has been linked to hair loss, so adding zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds to your diet can be beneficial.
  

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon and in flaxseeds, omega-3s improve blood circulation and nourish hair follicles, promoting robust hair growth.
  

• Vitamin D: Research has shown that low levels of vitamin D can contribute to hair loss. Regular sunlight exposure, as well as foods like fortified milk and fish, can help maintain healthy levels.
  

• Protein: Since hair is primarily made of protein, a diet low in protein can hinder beard growth. Lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes should be regulars in your diet.

Pro Tip: If you find it hard to get enough of these nutrients through diet alone, consider a high-quality multivitamin or a beard growth supplement that includes biotin, zinc, and other hair-healthy vitamins and minerals.

Hydration for Beard Health: Staying hydrated is essential for keeping hair supple and promoting optimal growth. Dehydrated hair becomes dry and brittle, making it more prone to breaking. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to support healthy hair and skin.

4. Manage Stress for Better Beard Growth

Stress is often overlooked when discussing hair health, but chronic stress can have a significant impact on beard growth. Elevated stress levels increase cortisol production, which can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to shedding or thinning hair.

The Science Behind Stress and Hair Growth: High cortisol levels can interfere with the production of testosterone, a hormone essential for hair growth. Stress can also restrict blood flow to hair follicles, depriving them of essential nutrients.

Practical Ways to Manage Stress:

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Studies show that daily mindfulness practice can lower cortisol levels and create a balanced hormonal environment, which can support hair growth. Start with just 10 minutes a day and gradually increase.
  

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity boosts circulation, which helps deliver nutrients to hair follicles. It also releases endorphins that counteract the negative effects of stress.
  

• Quality Sleep: The body repairs itself during sleep, including hair follicles. Ensure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support cell regeneration and hormone balance.

Pro Tip: Develop a consistent bedtime routine, such as turning off electronic devices an hour before bed, drinking herbal tea, or doing light stretching. These habits can improve sleep quality, which in turn supports better beard growth.

5. Use Beard Oils and Balms with Growth-Boosting Ingredients

While beard oils are often marketed for their moisturizing and softening benefits, they can also play a role in promoting beard growth if they contain the right ingredients.

Certain oils have properties that stimulate hair follicles and improve the health of the skin beneath.

Ingredients That Support Beard Growth:

• Castor Oil: High in ricinoleic acid, castor oil increases blood flow to hair follicles and nourishes the roots, supporting hair growth.
  

• Peppermint Oil: A study published in Toxicological Research highlighted that peppermint oil can stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow and promoting follicle depth and thickness.
  

• Rosemary Oil: Research has shown that rosemary oil is as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair growth, making it an excellent natural alternative with fewer side effects.

How to Use Beard Oils Effectively:

• Apply a few drops of beard oil after washing your face. Gently massage it into the skin to ensure it reaches the hair follicles and stimulates blood flow.

• For added benefits, use a beard balm that contains these growth-boosting oils. Balms can seal in moisture and keep your facial hair conditioned throughout the day.

Pro Tip: Using beard oils and balms at night can give them more time to penetrate the skin and work effectively while you sleep. Combine them with a gentle beard combing routine to help evenly distribute the oils and stimulate the hair follicles.

Consistency Is Key: While these beard-growing hacks are effective, they require patience and consistency. Stick to your new regimen for at least a few months to see noticeable results. Whether it’s applying minoxidil, using microneedling, or optimizing your diet, regular practice is what makes the difference in achieving a fuller, thicker beard.

The BMM Takeaway

When it comes to beard growth, one of the most overlooked aspects is tracking your progress.

Facial hair growth takes time, and changes can be so gradual that you might not notice the difference day to day.

Take weekly photos to document your journey. This not only motivates you when you see progress but also helps you identify what strategies are working best.

And one last trick you can try is incorporating a facial massage into your nightly routine.

Massaging your face for 5-10 minutes can increase blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting healthier growth over time.

Use your favorite beard oil while massaging for added benefits. This small, extra step can make a significant difference in nurturing and stimulating those stubborn hair follicles.