Growing a thick beard or mustache isn’t always as simple as putting down the razor. For some, growing facial hair can be challenging, and many wonder why they can’t achieve the desired look. While genetics certainly play a role, other factors may also be at play.

If you’re struggling with patchy spots or slow facial hair growth, don’t give up just yet. Read on to learn about the most common reasons people struggle to grow facial hair and tips to promote hair growth.

Reasons you might not be able to grow facial hair

If you're struggling to grow facial hair, there could be several reasons, including:

1. Genetics – This is the primary factor determining your ability to grow facial hair and influences how thick and even the growth is.
2. Androgen receptors and hormones – The ability of your hair follicles to grow facial hair depends on the number of androgen receptors on the follicles and how sensitive they are to testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. Low testosterone levels can affect facial hair growth.
3. Alopecia areata – This autoimmune condition can cause patches of hair loss, including on the face and scalp.
4. Stress – High stress levels can disrupt hormones, which may negatively impact your hair growth.
5. Scars – If a scar damages a hair follicle, it can limit or prevent hair from growing in that area.

Tips for growing facial hair

Depending on your situation, the following lifestyle modifications may help you grow facial hair:

1. Practicing good skin care – Healthy skin promotes a better environment for hair follicles, supporting growth.
2. Managing stress – Chronic stress can negatively impact hormones related to hair growth. Healthy coping mechanisms, such as meditation or exercise, can help you maintain hormonal balance.
3. Getting adequate sleep – Proper sleep plays a key role in regulating hormones like testosterone, which is important for facial hair growth.
4. Eating a well-balanced diet – A diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals – including biotin, zinc, vitamin D and vitamin A – supports healthy hair growth.
5. Exercising regularly – Regular physical activity helps boost testosterone levels, which can promote facial hair growth.

While several products – such as beard oils, balms, combs, shampoos and vitamins – are marketed to promote facial hair growth, they are not “miracle workers,” and many are not FDA-approved. Additionally, certain supplements can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.