Beard Growth and Testosterone: Is There a Link?

Beards are the ultimate symbol of manliness. Growing a big, thick, bushy beard is a solid way to put your masculinity on show. In fact, compared to the rest of the animal kingdom, humans look surprisingly different between men and women. Sure, there are different body sizes and specific anatomies. However, one of the biggest visual variations is men’s facial hair.

Beard growth is governed by two male hormones: testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. The more hormones in your system, the faster your beard grows. Or so the theory goes.

But is there really any truth to this? Is beard growth connected to testosterone levels? And is there any way to hack our testosterone to get a bigger beard?

Beard Growth and Testosterone: The Science

Think of a scale of beardliness – on the one hand, there are the men who need only squint, and a full-grown beard explodes from every facial follicle; on the other, there are the men who struggle to grow only a few hairs on their chin. 

What determines where you fall on this scale? Genetics is often brought up as the deciding factor – for good reason. It’s no accident that males in a family usually share similar beards. But your genes aren’t controlling the beard hairs themselves. Rather, it’s your genetics that regulate the direct factors controlling beard growth.

Your testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels are responsible for triggering beard growth. The higher the levels in your system, the faster your beard will grow. But only if your hair follicles are sensitive enough to these hormones. 

Beard growth usually peaks in the late 20s and early 30s for this reason. It’s when male sex hormones are the highest. As men age, testosterone levels begin to fall, decreasing beard growth. 

How to Increase Testosterone for Beard Growth

The logic is simple: increasing testosterone grants us a thicker, faster-growing beard. So, rather than focusing on increasing beard growth, should we all maximize our testosterone levels instead?

Well, maybe. 

Testosterone levels in US males have declined for decades. Part of the problem is increasing obesity, sedentary lifestyles, fewer smokers (yes, really), and environmental toxins known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This cocktail of factors combines to lower testosterone levels. 

Low testosterone is just connected to poor beard growth. You’ll feel more tired, have less muscle mass, have a lower sex drive, experience memory changes, and much more. It also makes doing hard things even harder – testosterone is what fuels the drive to push through (and even enjoy) discomfort.

So, what kind of beard sorcery can we conjure to boost testosterone levels? Try these tips:

• Lift Heavy, Grow Big: Strength training, especially lifting weights, is a testosterone booster. Focus on compound exercises like squats and deadlifts—they trigger a hormonal surge that can fuel beard growth. Plus, you’ll look and feel stronger overall.
• Fuel Your Beard with Good Food: Healthy fats are testosterone’s best mate. Add avocados, eggs, nuts, and fatty fish to your meals. Bonus points for zinc-rich foods like shellfish and spinach—they directly support testosterone production.
• Prioritize Sleep Like a Boss: No shortcuts here—7-8 hours of quality sleep is essential. Testosterone production peaks during deep sleep, so stick to a routine and avoid screens before bed.
• Manage Stress to Keep Testosterone Happy: Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which dampens testosterone. Try yoga, meditation, or even just a good laugh—whatever keeps you chilled.
• Get Your Dose of Sunshine: Vitamin D isn’t just for bones—it’s crucial for testosterone. Spend 15-20 minutes in the sun daily, or consider a supplement during gloomy months.
• Ditch the Junk: Processed foods and sugary treats can tank your testosterone. Opt for whole, nutrient-dense meals to give your body—and beard—the best shot.

Looking After Your Beard Growth

Raising testosterone levels for beard growth takes a lot of effort – but it’s worth it! Of course, when you finally see the benefits, you’ll want to look after your beardliness. BEARD SORCERY offers a range of incredible beardcraft products, including beard oils, balms, and creams. We’ve got all the tools you need to manage your facial fur, keeping your impressive growth neatly trimmed and groomed. 

Shop our collection today to keep your beard looking its best—soft, shiny, and utterly majestic.