Lowers the risk of skin cancer
Research carried out at Australia’s University of Southern Queensland has shown that the beard provides 90 to 95% protection against the sun’s UV rays. The effect depends on the length and angle of the beard.
The more skin exposed to harmful UV rays, the higher the risk of getting skin cancer. However, though sporting a beard can lower the risk of skin cancer, dermatologists still advise bearded men to use sun protection products to minimise the harm of UV rays.
Helps with asthma and allergies
Facial hair can help keep allergens like dust or pollen from getting into direct contact with skin. Asthma sufferers benefit from a beard as it can work as a filter preventing allergic triggers from entering the respiratory system.
Experts say the small amount of pollen and dust stuck in the beard can give the immune system a chance to get familiar with these triggers and become desensitised. The risk for allergic reactions can thus be lowered.
Reduces infection
Studies indicate that bacteria contained in beards can potentially develop into new antibiotics. When compared to clean-shaven men, bearded men have a lower risk of developing infections caused by bacteria.
Clean-shaven men have a three time higher risk of carrying methicillin-resistant staph aureus (MRSA) on their cheeks than men with beards. Beardless men’s faces are 10% more susceptible to Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that causes skin and respiratory infections and food poisoning.
Bacterial infections such as ingrowths and folliculitis, which are hazards of regular shaving, don’t have the chance to develop in bearded men.
Reduces wrinkles
Dermatologists claim that facial hair slows down men’s skin ageing process because it reduces sun exposure. As a result, there are fewer wrinkles and age spots on these men.
The same is applied to photo-ageing and skin damage. Amazingly, although growing a beard may make men look older, it actually keeps them younger.
Decreases acne
Shaving can block the tiny follicles on the surface of the skin, leading to whiteheads and blackheads. Both the use of a shaver or electric razor can easily worsen the inflammation, making these spots more obvious.
In addition, since acne may make people feel less confident about their appearance, growing a beard possibly boosts their self-esteem and confidence.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com and was reviewed by Dr Duyen Le. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.