We are currently experiencing the most stressful time in modern American history. With a global pandemic causing mass job-loss, many men have found themselves on the losing side of the coin; but how does this stress affect their beard growth?

Stress Can Cause Loss of Facial Hair

Various studies suggest that stress causes the production of cortisol in the body. When high levels of cortisol are present, the adrenal glands begin to produce fewer hormones that promote hair growth. This comes as the result of crashing levels of the testosterone/ DHT hormone. Testosterone levels directly affect beard growth. There is some evidence that how fast your beard grows is determined by the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) you produce, a byproduct of testosterone. Thus, too much stress can actually slow the growth of your beard.

Stress can also constrict blood vessels, this restricts the flow of vitamins and nutrients to hair follicles limit the ability of a man to grow a healthy beard.

Dealing With Stress To Save Your Beard

• Working out helps increase testosterone levels in the body

• Get More Sleep – It helps the body to function at optimal levels and enhances regeneration of testosterone.

•  Yoga helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and lower your heart rate.

• Reduce Stressors: Effective time-management skills, asking for help when appropriate, setting priorities, pacing yourself, and taking time out to focus on yourself.