Heavy facial hair can be considered attractive to many.
The growth of facial hair can have many implications in today's world society. To some people, ample facial hair can be considered attractive, much like a male lion's mane is used to attract female lions. To others, too much facial hair is considered threatening, and thus many are convinced that a clean-shaven appearance is most desirable. For those who desire the lion's mane effect, the quick acquisition of facial hair can be a valuable ability. Does this Spark an idea?
Androgens
Human hair growth of any kind can be attributed to androgens, or in other words, male sex hormones such as testosterone. Finding ways to increase androgens in the body can, in fact, increase facial hair growth. One interesting fact about androgens, however, is that although increased amounts may cause more rapid growth of facial and pubic hair, they also contribute to male pattern baldness, meaning a loss or thinning of hair on the head. This reason for this seeming contradiction is not clear.
Increasing Androgens in the Body
If the thought of male pattern baldness doesn't sway you from desiring a thicker and faster-growing mane, there are a few methods that have been shown to increase androgens in your body. The following tips are derived from a December 2000 article written by Ron Geraci in "Men's Health" magazine.
Lose Weight
An excess of fat clinging to the body has been shown to actually increase estrogen levels, a hormone generally more common in women. Working out, especially weight lifting and aerobic exercises such as running, can boost your testosterone levels and get rid of your gut in the process. Don't starve yourself to lose weight, though. A diet consisting of at least 30 percent fat is required to sustain proper testosterone levels. Drop the weight slowly and steadily. A loss of just 1 to 2 lbs. a week is considered ideal.
Avoid Binge Drinking
Alcoholic drinks in excess can significantly decrease the amount of male hormones found in the body. Geraci says three drinks is the cutoff to maintaining proper facial hair-promoting androgens.
Get Adequate Rest
Around 8 hours of sleep is ideal for anyone wishing to beef up testosterone levels. Adequate sleep can provide numerous health benefits above and beyond increasing androgens. Suffice it to say that all-night partying should be avoided unless you want to avoid facial fuzz. Waking up early can also help boost facial hair growth because testosterone levels are known to be at their highest in the early morning, according to Geraci.
Too Many Methods to List
There are so many ways to increase testosterone levels as well as overall health that they can't all be listed here. The suggestions above provide a good starting point, but you can ask medical professionals for other methods. Everyone is different and perhaps you'll find something that works better for you.
Tags: facial hair, testosterone levels, facial hair considered, hair considered, hair growth