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

Question

Hello doctor,

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 men can do?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

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, 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 (platelet-rich plasma) have good results.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.