When something becomes popular, it also becomes a target for criticism from people who either do not understand the trend or simply do not like it. Beards have gained huge popularity with men all over the world. They are utilized as a way to make a personal statement and help shape the individual’s style. However, not everyone is convinced that this is a good thing. There is a large contingency of people who think that beards are just plain cool, but there are many detractors who would rather see beards just go away.

Luckily for men who love their beards, and those who love men who love their beards, there are more reasons than just style for maintaining a beard. The detractors probably do not realize that there are health benefits to having a beard, which means that it is time to educate them on why men with beards tend to be healthier than those who cut their facial hair.

1. Blocks UV Rays

Extensive scientific research has shown that thick beards are capable of blocking out 95 percent of the UV rays from the sun. Not only do beards prevent your skin from getting burnt but they also help to protect your skin from getting cancer.

2. Shaving Gives You Acne

If you have a beard, then the chances are very strong that you have smooth skin under that facial hair. According to ThoughtCatalog.com, shaving your face helps to spread the bacteria that causes acne. This means that allowing your beard to grow and taking proper care of your beard encourages healthy skin.

3. Perception Is Everything

In one study, eight men purposefully has their beards shaved off and then grew them back. There were pictures taken at each stage of new beard growth to give a catalog of the progress.

When the men had fully regrown their beards, the researchers brought together 64 men and 64 women to analyze the progress pictures and get their opinions. The research showed that as the men’s beards grew in fuller, the opinion that the 128 people in the group had of each man was perceived to be more positive. Each man was rated as appearing to be more mature, attractive, and healthy as their beards became fuller.

4. Build That Confidence

Men who have more confidence in themselves tend to be more successful in all aspects of their lives. According to Jebiga.com, a beard gives a man a sense of power and confidence that is readily evident to everyone around him. Therefore, making the decision to grow a beard is a way for a man to set a higher standard for his life and become more successful.

5. A Natural Filter

Men who grow a moustache enjoy the benefits of having microscopic allergens kept out of their noses and, as a result, the reduction of the effects of conditions such as hay fever and other allergies. With a beard, that filtering protection is taken to a whole new level. In fact, a beard will help keep those same allergens and airborne bacteria out of your mouth, which will lead to overall better health. When you combine a beard with a moustache, you get twofold protection that a clear-faced male cannot get. Of course, you do need to take steps to clean and maintain your facial hair filter, and beard oil is one of the most popular grooming methods for men who grow beards.

6. Fountain Of Youth

A beard can actually function as a fountain of youth because of all of the protection it offers. Since facial hair keeps your skin clear of cancerous blemishes and having a beard means you reduce the amount of acne and discoloration on your skin, your skin will stay healthy for longer. The ability of a beard and moustache to keep allergens out of your system will also improve your overall health. In this way, beards work to keep you not only looking younger but feeling younger as well.

7. Fewer Wrinkles

Another side-effect of having less exposure to the sun is that you get less wrinkles. While the option to protect the face from wrinkles by using a beard is not open to everyone, those who do have the opportunity to take advantage of this beauty benefit should get on board and start growing their beards right now.

8. Helps Lessen The Possibility Of Gum Disease

When your beard and moustache help to keep airborne bacteria out of your mouth, they are also working together to reduce your chances of getting gum disease. It should be noted that you still need to brush your teeth to do the lion’s share of protection against gum disease, but beards offer that little bit of extra protection that other people simply do not have.

9. Keeps Your Skin Moist

Shaving opens up the pores in your skin and can also cause cuts on your face that will dry out your skin over time. In the summer and winter, exposed pores create a situation where your skin loses it moisture and can start to flake. When you have a beard, you avoid all of these issues and keep your skin nice and healthy.

10. Prevents Other Bacterial Infections

When you have a beard, the pores in your skin are naturally protected against any bacteria that may try to get in and cause an infection. Bacteria can come from a variety of sources and has the potential to become extremely dangerous if it has a portal to gain access to your skin. Shaving opens up those portals and allows all of that bacteria to come pouring in. When you have a beard, those portals are closed.

A beard is more than just a cool facial accessory, it is also a life-saving device. With all of the health benefits that beards offer, it is interesting that not more men are growing beards. The next time someone tries to tell you that your beard needs to go, all you need to do is remind them that your beard gives you a longer life and healthier skin. It is always nice to have a scientific way to silence the critics.