Beards have been in and out of fashion for centuries, but up until a few years ago, the clean-shaven look always seemed to be in.

However, the recent trend of growing beards, and the many different styles that have emerged, have brought the issue back into the spotlight.

History of Shaving and Beards

Shaving is an ancient practice that dates back to around 3000 BC. The first evidence of shaving comes from an Egyptian tomb that contains a copper razor and a blade made of obsidian.

In ancient Greece, a beard was seen as a sign of virility, and only boys and slaves were permitted to be clean-shaven. In Rome, shaving was a sign of being civilized, but a beard was also a sign of military strength.

Throughout the Middle Ages, beards were a sign of wisdom and status, and they were often braided and decorated. However, in the 16th century, the fashion began to change, and men began to shave more frequently.

The trend continued through the 19th century, with the introduction of the safety razor, and into the 20th century.

The Clean-Shaven Look

The clean-shaven look has been the norm for much of the 20th century, with famous actors like Cary Grant, Rock Hudson, and Clark Gable sporting a smooth chin.

In the 1960s and 1970s, the clean-shaven look began to be seen as a sign of rebellion and counterculture, with icons like John Lennon and James Dean sporting scruffy beards and mustaches.

The clean-shaven look has often been associated with professionalism and success, with many businesses requiring their employees to be clean-shaven.

However, this association is beginning to break down, with many successful men now sporting beards and mustaches.

The Beard Revival

The beard revival began in the mid-2000s, with celebrities like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and David Beckham sporting well-groomed beards. The trend continued to grow in popularity, with the emergence of beard oils, balms, and other grooming products.

Today, there are many different styles of beards, from the full, bushy beard to the trimmed and sculpted goatee.

Beard styles have become almost as important as haircuts for men, with some men even visiting a barber just to have their beard trimmed and styled.

Arguments for Shaving

There are many arguments in favor of shaving. One of the main arguments is hygiene. A smooth chin is easier to clean and maintain than a beard, which can trap food, bacteria, and other particles.

A clean-shaven face is also required for certain jobs, such as food service, where a beard can be seen as a hazard.

Another argument is that a clean-shaven face can make a man look younger and more attractive.

In a study published in the Journal of Evolutionary Biology, women rated men with heavy stubble as the most attractive, while men with full beards were seen as less attractive and older.

Arguments for Growing a Beard

On the other hand, there are many arguments in favor of growing a beard. One argument is that a beard can make a man look more masculine and mature.

In a study published in the Journal of Behavioral Ecology, men with beards were rated as more aggressive and socially dominant than clean-shaven men.

Another argument is that a beard can protect a man’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays. The hair on a beard can block up to 95% of UV radiation, according to a study published in the journal Radiation Protection Dosimetry.

The Compromise: Stubble

For many men, the compromise between shaving and growing a full beard is to maintain a short amount of stubble. Stubble can create a rugged, masculine look without requiring the maintenance of a full beard.

While stubble may seem like an easy option, it still requires maintenance to make sure it is well-groomed. Men with stubble should make sure to clean up the edges of their beard and keep it trimmed to a uniform length.

The Bottom Line

The decision of whether to shave or grow a beard ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some men may prefer the clean-shaven look, while others may feel more comfortable with a beard.

Ultimately, a man should choose the style that makes him feel confident and comfortable in his own skin.

However, it is important to remember that both options require maintenance to look their best.

A clean-shaven face requires regular shaving to maintain its smoothness, while a beard requires regular trimming and grooming to look neat and well-maintained.