Beard Science
Looking at the hormones responsible for beard growth and the effects of synthetic chemicals on male health.
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1.) “Testosterone and DHT are important male hormones that are responsible for regulating and promoting the growth of facial hair.”
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2.) “Endocrine disruptors are chemicals and substances found in nature that can mess with your hormones. They are found in lots of things we use every day, like cosmetics, food, packaging, and pesticides”.
3.) "The effects of Endocrine disruptors can include reduced testosterone (affecting all male characteristics associated with testosterone - **beard growth**)"
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4.) “Synthetic Fragrances found in cosmetics can include up to 4000 chemicals, many of which have been linked to chronic health conditions such as cancer, birth defects, and endocrine/hormone disruption."
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5.) "Some natural essential oils possess estrogenic properties affecting male hormones (Teatree, Rosemary, Lavender)"
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6.) "DHT is a key male sex hormone that influences the length, thickness, and density of beards. Oils high in Polyunsaturated fats (Argan, Avocado, Almond etc) have been shown to block DHT."
WHAT ARE HORMONES?
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Hormones are produced by endocrine glands and act as vital chemical messengers in our bodies that regulate growth, metabolism, mood, and reproduction. Testosterone, a primary male sex hormone, exemplifies this role by promoting male characteristics like beard growth and muscle development. Acting as a communication system, hormones ensure that different bodily systems work together seamlessly.
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WHAT ARE ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS?
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Endocrine disruptors are chemicals and substances found in nature that can mess with your hormones. They are found in lots of things we use every day, like cosmetics, food, packaging, and pesticides. You can come into contact with these chemicals through the products you use, the food you eat, and the water you drink. Some EDCs act like “hormone mimics” and trick our body
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SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES
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What is the true definition of "Fragrance"? Surprisingly, it can include up to 4,000 chemicals, many of which are undisclosed and sourced from petrochemicals. These chemicals have been linked to serious health issues such as cancer, hormone disruption, and birth defects. Phthalates, commonly found in fragrances, have been associated with reproductive issues, liver and breast cancer, and obesity. Even products labelled as "fragrance-free" can still contain harmful chemicals. To protect yourself, opt for organic and 100% natural products and always read labels carefully.
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NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS CAN DISRUPT HORMONES
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Essential oils have gained popularity for their various health benefits. However, recent studies suggest that some of these oils may have a negative impact on male hormones.
Tea tree oil, for example, is thought to have estrogen-like properties that could potentially disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in men. Similarly, lavender oil is thought to possess estrogenic properties, which could potentially interfere with testosterone production.
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Unfortunately, it's not just Tea tree and lavender oil that pose a problem, a significant number of essential oils contain compounds that are thought to affect hormones.
While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of these effects, it is advisable for men to exercise caution when using these oils, especially if they are dealing with hormonal imbalances or fertility issues.
DHT - a key hormone responsible for beard growth, and beard thickness
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DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone derived from testosterone. It plays a crucial role in the development of male characteristics, including muscle mass and beard growth. DHT is particularly important for facial hair growth and influences the length, thickness, and density of facial hair by transforming fine vellus hair into thick terminal hair. However, despite how important DHT is for the beard, it is thought that excessive levels of DHT can lead to hair loss on the scalp, it’s likely why so many bald men have fantastic beards!
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Natural oils high in polyunsaturated fats, such as Argan and Sweet Almond oil, (and many others) contain fatty acids that can inhibit the activity of DHT receptors. These oils work by binding to the receptors, preventing DHT from attaching and exerting its effects. Most carrier oils and butters used in hair products are high in polyunsaturated fats.
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Using DHT-blocking oils for the scalp offers a safer alternative to chemical-based products. However, they should not be used for beards that rely on DHT to grow!
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