If you are an adult male and you do not have low testosterone, you should be able to grow facial hair. Although the speed of your hair growth can be dependent upon your genetics, there are lifestyle additions and changes you can make that will let your facial hair grow quicker. If you feel your facial hair growth is abnormally slow, you should consult your physician about a possible medical disorder.
Step 1
Eat protein. Hair is made of keratin protein. Your body uses the dietary protein you eat to make hair. The Mayo Clinic recommends that at least 10 percent, and as much as 35 percent, of the calories you consume should come from protein sources. For optimal hair growth, aim for the higher percentage. Focus on improving your protein intake with lean protein sources such as fish, chicken, egg whites, soy and non-fat milk.
Step 2
Take a multivitamin. If you are unsure which product to take, ask your physician to recommend one. Nutrient deficiencies can slow hair growth. A multivitamin will replace any vitamins or minerals you may lack. Even in a balanced diet, there will be daily fluctuations in the amounts of nutrients you ingest.
Step 3
Ask your physician about a biotin supplement. While special hair-growth formulas and pills are not recommended, Dr. Jeffery Benabio suggests taking 2.5 mg to stimulate facial hair growth. The University of Maryland Medical Center also notes that biotin can encourage optimal hair growth.
Step 4
Resist the urge shave. Growing a full face of hair will require patience for at least four weeks, according to Dr. Benabio. Shaving will absolutely not make hair grow quicker, although it may appear that way.
Step 5
Massage and apply shampoo to your facial hair. Dr. Benabio suggests doing this two or three times a week. This can increase blood flow to your face and will help prevent itching that many experience. You should treat and care for your facial hair just as you would for scalp hair.
Step 6
Avoid stress as much as possible. Stress can compromise your immune system and slow your facial hair growth. The University of Alabama at Birmingham reports that in extreme cases, stress can shift your hair follicles from their growth, or anagen, phase to their resting, or telogen, phase, causing them to shed. Use physical activities such as jogging, lifting weights or yoga to combat stress.
Things You'll Need
- Biotin
- Multivitamin
References
- The Dermatology Blog; Dr. Jeffery Benabio, MD, FAAD.: How to Grow a Beard in 10 Easy Steps
- Hudson's Guide: Facial Hair, Growth and Grooming
- Beards.org: All About Beards: Growing a Beard
- Mayo Clinic: Healthy Diet: End the Guesswork with These Nutrition Guidelines
- University of Alabama at Birmingham: Hair Loss (stress)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin H (Biotin)
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