Beard growth is surrounded by myths, old wives’ tales, and misleading advice. especially online. From miracle oils to shaving “tricks,” it can be hard to know what genuinely affects beard growth and what’s complete nonsense. I am always amazed at how many of these myths actually exist.
This guide breaks down the most common beard growth myths, explains what actually influences beard growth, and helps you focus on the things that make a real difference.
Myth 1: “Shaving Makes Your Beard Grow Thicker”
The truth:
Shaving does not change the thickness, speed, or density of beard growth.
When you shave, the hair is cut bluntly at the surface, so as it grows back it feels thicker, but the follicle itself hasn’t changed.
What actually helps:
- Good skin health
- Consistent grooming
- Time (beards mature into your late 20s/early 30s which you can read more about in my patchy beard article.)
Myth 2: “Beard Oils Make Your Beard Grow Faster”
The truth:
Beard oils do not create new follicles or increase growth speed. They do make your beard look fuller by:
- Softening the hair
- Reducing breakage
- Improving skin health
- Reducing itch and irritation
This creates better conditions for growth but doesn’t change your natural growth rate.
Myth 3: “You Can Fill in Bald Spots With Products”
The truth:
No topical product can create new beard follicles.
If a patch has no active follicles, no oil, cream, or serum can make hair grow there.
What actually helps:
- Smart styling
- Strategic trimming
- Improving skin health
- Allowing more growth time
- Beard dye to reduce contrast
Myth 4: “Supplements Will Give You a Full Beard”
The truth:
Supplements only help if you have a deficiency.
Biotin, zinc, iron, and vitamin D support healthy hair growth, but they won’t magically create a thick beard if your levels are already normal.
When supplements help:
- Low vitamin D
- Low iron
- Low B12
- Poor diet
A blood test is the only way to know.
Myth 5: “Beard Growth Is All About Testosterone”
The truth:
Testosterone plays a role, but DHT sensitivity is far more important. Two men with the same testosterone levels can have completely different beard growth depending on how their follicles respond to DHT.
What actually matters:
- Genetics
- Age
- Hormone sensitivity
- Follicle density
Myth 6: “Beard Growth Stops After a Certain Age”
The truth:
Beard growth often continues improving into your late 20s and early 30s.
Many men see:
- Thicker cheeks
- Better density
- Stronger neckline
- Fewer patches
This is well after they think their beard has “finished” developing.
Myth 7: “Beard Growth Products Can Reverse Genetics”
The truth:
Nothing can override your genetic beard pattern. You can improve what you have but you can’t change your natural follicle map.
What you can improve:
- Skin health
- Beard softness
- Density appearance
- Patchiness visibility
- Beard shape and style
Myth 8: “Beard Dandruff Means You’re Losing Hair”
The truth:
Beard dandruff (beardruff) is caused by dry skin or yeast imbalance and not hair loss. It’s easily fixed with:
- Beard shampoo
- Moisturiser
- Beard oil
- Gentle brushing
→ Link to Beard Dandruff Solutions
Myth 9: “More Beard Products Equals Faster Growth”
The truth:
Using too many products can irritate the skin and slow growth. A simple beard grooming routine is best:
- Beard shampoo
- Moisturiser
- Beard oil
- Brush
- Trim
Myth 10: “If You Can’t Grow a Beard by 20, You Never Will”
The truth:
Beard maturity varies massively. Some men grow full beards at 18. Others don’t reach full density until 30+.
Patchiness in your early 20s is completely normal for the vat majority of people.
What Actually Helps Beard Growth?
Here’s what genuinely makes a difference:
1. Healthy Skin
Moisturise daily and avoid harsh products on your skin and beard.
2. Consistent Grooming Routine
Clean, hydrated skin supports stronger hair follicles.
3. Good Diet & Lifestyle
Protein, vitamins, minerals, sleep, and reduced stress all help, though can be difficult to achieve consistently.
4. Smart Styling
Trimming, shaping, and brushing can dramatically improve appearance.
5. Time & Patience
Beard growth improves naturally with age.
Final Thoughts
Beard growth is influenced by genetics, hormones, and age and not miracle products or shaving tricks. Once you understand what actually affects beard growth, you can focus on the things that genuinely help:
- Healthy skin
- Consistent grooming
- Smart styling
- Good nutrition
- Patience
A fuller, healthier beard is usually the result of good habits, not myths. You can also check out the full range of available grooming products in the UK in this article.