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A study published in the Journal of Evolutionary Biology shows that women think the sexiest men are those who sport heavy face hair, followed by short face hair.
Another study published in the Royal Society Open Science has found that women are more attracted to men with a beards. Almost 1000 women took part in the study which determined that women preferred men with beards because they found them more physically and socially dominant.
"I love bearded men and this attraction started some years back. It influenced me to date a bearded man. Beard (is) a sign of maturity and wisdom. This is more appealing to me because I always look for a more sophisticated, much more experienced, and intelligent partner,” says Edna Mursoi.
The 20-year-old says bearded men are romantic. “They are creative and know what women want,” she says.
Nervine Khimuli, a Fourth Year Political Science student who is dating a bearded man says he is her dream man.
"Bearded men are the rarest, and most expansive creatures on this Earth. That is why if you get one you keep him. Beard is a genetic proof of masculinity. The more facial hair an individual owns, the more masculine he will be perceived. Science itself says a man should have beards to state he is a man,” says Nervine, 23.
Collins Omondi says that he grows a beard as a fashion statement, to express his style and individuality as a model.
"Having (a beard) while modelling creates a unique nature. Beards are often associated with masculinity and can be seen as a symbol of strength and maturity," says Collins.
In 2017, YouGov Research showed that between 2011 and 2016, the population of British men sporting some facial hair had risen from 37 per cent to 42 per cent. Razor sales continued to slide and the hipster came and went but the beard persisted.
Market films like Euro Monitor International have reported on the rising sales of men's grooming products including beard care items, which indicate an increase in beard maintenance.
According to experts, it is a challenge for some men to keep their beard long but dermatologists provide tips to keep them long and healthy.
"Most men do not moisturise their skin and hair. They need to moisturise so their beards grow. Hair only grows where the skin grows. A man and woman need different face and scalp routines to encourage hair growth and seeing a holistic clinical dermatologist helps with that," says Dr Fibian Nyorita, a Clinical Dermatologist.
“The benefit of having a beard is protection, as well as aesthetics. It is good protection against wind, chafing, and traumatic injury. It is also a trend, so we see a lot of men with some form of facial hair,” says Dr Dave Harvey, M.D., a dermatologist.
He adds, "Beard can help protect the skin from harmful UV rays, though the degree of protection may depend on hair density and thickness. Even though some UV rays get through, there is some scattering of the light and that is how it helps protect against sun damage."
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