The Science of Beards infographic delves into why men don facial hair.
Created by Online PhD, the chart notes that beards were historically a sign of honor and manliness -- the thicker and burlier, the better. However, after Alexander the Great outlawed soldiers from having them (for fear they would be tugged and yanked on in battle) the hairy fad cycled in and out of fashion.
According to the chart, women find men with facial hair 2/3 as sexy as men who are clean-shaven; presumably, causing only 33% of American men and 55% of men worldwide to sport the lumberjack look. Men with various degrees of scruff were also seen as less generous, less caring and less cheerful.
There is hope, however, for anyone wanting to keep the hyper masculine tradition alive; The Science of Beards infographic mentions that men with facial hair are seen to be of higher status, are more respected and appear more powerful than men without. The graphic urges "real men" to not shave, and instead, to find a woman who embraces the bristles.
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The Science of Beards Infographic Talks About Male Scruff
Trend Themes
1. Facial Hair Fashion - The increasing popularity of beards and mustaches presents an opportunity for industries to create new grooming products and styles that appeal to modern men.
2. Status and Masculinity - As the Science of Beards infographic notes, facial hair is often associated with higher social status and power, creating an opportunity for companies to market products that cater to men who want to project this image.
3. Barbershop Revival - The return of facial hair as a popular trend offers an opportunity for barbershops to modernize their services and cater to a new generation of male clients looking for personalized grooming experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Grooming Products - With the increasing popularity of beards and facial hair, there is an opportunity for grooming companies to innovate and create new products tailored to the specific needs of male consumers.
2. Fashion and Apparel - As facial hair becomes more mainstream, there is an opportunity for fashion and apparel companies to create products that complement and cater to the modern man's grooming choices.
3. Personal Care Services - The rise of facial hair as a fashion trend presents an opportunity for personal care service providers (such as barbershops and salons) to create new experiences and services for male customers seeking specialized grooming and styling options.