Beards are the most common way to change men’s look. Many people use them to enhance their features, have a new look, or just feel confident. However, having a beard is more than growing facial hair, it requires keeping it clean and healthy.
A recent study published in the European Radiology magazine revealed something surprising: a human beard could contain more bacteria than a dog’s fur. This doesn’t mean having a beard is dangerous, but it’s important to know how to keep it clean. So, let’s find out how because I’m sure many people with facial hair reading this might be scared.
The study about beards
To analyze the amount of bacteria found on a beard, researchers studied 18 men with a beard and 30 dogs. Every man showed high levels of microorganisms on their beards, whereas 23 dogs showed high levels and 7 dogs moderated levels.
Researchers also looked for pathogenic bacteria, which are bacteria that can cause disease. They found:
- 7 of the 18 beards contained pathogenic bacteria.
- 4 of the 30 dogs had pathogenic bacteria.
What’s more, they also checked medical scanners used on men and dogs. Scanners used on men with beards were less clean than those used on dogs. This supports the idea that beards can hold more microbes and more potentially harmful bacteria.
Why beards can accumulate dirt
Your beard works like a barrier that protects your skin, but because of that, it also traps dirt, sweat, and germs very quickly:
- Dust.
- Microbes from the air.
- Germs from hands.
- Food or other particles.
So, without proper cleaning, the beard can become a place where bacteria multiply.
How to keep it clean
Some people think the only way to keep the beard clean is to shave it. This could be one option, but it’s not compulsory. If the beard is part of your style or you feel comfortable with it, you can keep it perfectly clean by following the proper maintenance.
Experts recommend cleaning it everyday and this is how you should do it:
- Wash daily: use a shampoo made specifically for beards, not regular soap.
- Apply beard oil or balm: it keeps the skin hydrated and makes the beard soft and smooth.
These steps will help you have nice, clean, and healthy facial hair. This way, you don’t have to shave, but you should maintain it every single day. Remember this!
So…
A beard reflects your style and confidence, but it requires proper care. Although research suggests beards may carry more bacteria than dog fur, this shouldn’t cause worry. Instead, it highlights the importance of personal hygiene. Keeping your beard clean and well-maintained makes it healthier, more comfortable, more appealing, and a clear sign of good self-care.
Keep the beard style you love. Keep looking the way that feels like you. Just make sure you take care of your beard as you would any part of your body. With simple everyday routines, your beard can stay fresh, healthy, and something you’re happy to show off.
Did you know that by following these simple steps you could have a very natural and healthy beard? No more expensive products, you just need to have it clean. We hope this was helpful, and if you know someone with a beard, you should warn him about this.