(England) – New research is taking a look at a question that’s become increasingly relevant in the modern era. With beards having a major moment in terms of popularity — are they clean? Or are men doing a poor job of hirsute hygienics?
Primrose Freestone is a senior lecturer in clinical microbiology at the University of Leicester. She recently wrote a piece for The Conversation, examining the beard cleanliness issue. While beards may be stylish, there’s no denying they can be havens for bacteria and other microbes. Given beards are warm, moist environments — fungi, bacteria, and even viruses can thrive in beards. Food debris and trapped oils also help the growth of microbes.
For years, debates have raged as to how much of a difference there is between clean-shaven men and bearded men, in terms of microbe growth. The study at the University of Leicester looked at both men’s beards and dog fur — comparing the difference between the two. Research suggests the dog fur actually poses less of a risk when testing MRI scanners shared by both humans and canines.
On the flipside, research found bearded doctors are no more likely to carry Staphylococcus aureus — the bacteria behind staph infection — when compared with clean-shaven medical professionals. Bearded surgeons also do not carry an elevated risk for their patients, in terms of staph.
Dating back to at least 1970, hygiene has been a concern with facial hair. Doctors say without proper cleaning and moisturization skin can suffer from inflammation and irritation when men have beards. Washing beards properly will remove dirt, oils, and allergens. Combing beards is also recommended.
The overarching result of the research is that when trimmed, cleaned regularly, and well-maintained, beards are not a major risk of bacterial growth. But minus those steps — they are a concern.
