POSTED: 24 Jun 2025

How to Grow a Thick Beard

Thick full beards have become increasingly popular and not just amongst hipsters! The reasons for this are varied including a shift towards more masculine beauty trends. Beards are also an easy way to shape the lower face and of course embrace cultural customs. Whilst growth varies between person to person, there are certain things that can help you grow a fuller thicker beard. In this article, we’ll review the best tips and treatments for how to grow a thick beard naturally.

Normal Beard Growth

Beard growth follows a unique cycle which is influenced by your genetics, testosterone levels, diet, health and lifestyle. Typically, men begin developing facial hair in adolescence with the growth rate peaking in their 20s and 30s. Beard thickness and speed of growth is primarily dictated by genetics however, other things play a key role. The key factors that determine thick beard growth are:

  • Genetics: This is the main factor determining beard thickness and growth pattern. If men in your family typically get thick beards, have a higher likelihood of growing one naturally.
  • Hormones: Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) significantly influence beard thickness. Low testosterone levels can limit beard growth. Adequate levels and activity of these hormones is necessary to grow a thicker healthier beard.
  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports hair and beard growth. Deficiencies in Vitamin B, biotin, zinc and protein can all limit hair and beard growth.
  • Lifestyle & Grooming: Stress and insufficient sleep are can cause problems with these can cause hair loss and thin beard growth. Good skincare and looking after your facial hair can also improve the environment for growth. This can lead to healthier and thicker beards.

Beyond the above factors, certain medical conditions may also affect your beard. Things like thyroid dysfunction, skin conditions and alopecia barbae that can disrupt or even cause beard hair loss. Similarly, certain medications such as chemotherapy and can directly or indirectly limit or slow beard growth. If you have any medical conditions, skin problems or are on any medications, speak with your doctor. They can help you determine if these might affect your beard growth.

How to Grow a Thick Beard Naturally

It’s important to understand what affects facial hair growth. This is the best way to hack them to get a thicker beard. Here are the top tips to help grow a thick beard naturally:

  • Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: This is vital for healthy hair growth. Focus on foods high in biotin (e.g. eggs, almonds and sweet potatoes), zinc (such as dairy, pumpkin seeds and chickpeas), B vitamins (found in leafy greens, legumes and whole grains), omega-3 fatty acids (like oily fish, chia seeds and walnuts) and protein (from lean meats, tofu and lentils). These nutrients support hair follicle health and stimulate thicker healthier beard growth. Plant-based eaters can swap fish and meat for options like hemp seeds, quinoa, tempeh and fortified plant milks.
  • Exercise: Regular exercise increases blood circulation and testosterone levels. These all help support beard growth and thickness. Aim for regular cardiovascular and strength-training routines.
  • Skincare: Proper skincare should include regular cleansing, exfoliation and moisturising. These create optimal conditions for thick beard growth by reducing clogged pores and irritation.
  • Avoid Stress & Get Enough Sleep: Stress reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga along with sufficient sleep help balance your hormones to support thicker beard growth.

Best Treatments for Thick Beard Growth

The above tips in terms of diet, lifestyle and grooming are essential but they may not be enough on their own. If you need additional support to grow a thick beard, there are a number of over the counter, prescription and professional treatments that can help:

  • Oils & Balms: Quality beard oils and balms can help condition and moisturise the skin and beard hair. This helps support hair follicle health and reducing breakage which can ultimately promote thicker longer hair growth. Regular use of a beard oil/balm, brushing and trims can also help improve the shape and appearance of your facial hair.
  • Growth Supplements: If you’re struggling to get enough nutrients in your diet, supplements containing biotin, vitamins and minerals specifically designed for beard growth may be helpful. Always look for reputable brands and follow instructions carefully.
  • Medications: Although not approved specifically for beards, minoxidil is a popular topical treatment that promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. This can help stimulate thicker beard growth. It is available in over the counter hair loss treatments like Rogaine. Doctors may also prescribe topical beard growth treatments containing higher concentrations of minoxidil or by compounding it with other ingredients to enhance beard thickness.
  • Microneedling & Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Both these treatments work by increasing growth factors to stimulate the hair follicles which can then improve beard thickness. They’re usually combined with topical treatments and may work for some people but more evidence is needed to determine how effective they are and who they’re best for. Higher microneedling lengths (more than 1mm) and all forms of PRP should only be done in a medical setting to prevent risks such as scarring, infection and even hair loss.
  • Beard Transplant: For those with significant beard patchiness or very thin growth, beard transplants can be effective. This is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting hair follicles from other body parts to the face. if done correctly and in the right patients, it can help create a natural looking thick beard. However, this is an invasive and expensive treatment that can involve significant downtime and aftercare.

It is possible to grow a thick beard naturally but it needs a holistic approach that combines lifestyle, nutrition and skincare. There are also a few treatments that can help boost your efforts. The key thing is to start by understanding the growth factors that affect your beard growth and address any underlying health or lifestyle issues that are hindering. Ultimately, a thoughtful and patient approach will help you get there.

At City Skin Clinic, we offer personalised beard growth treatments. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective treatments using prescription-strength ingredients like TretinoinMinoxidilCaffeine and Melatonin where appropriate. To start your personalised treatment plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin (and hair) starts here.

Authored by:

Dr Amel Ibrahim
Aesthetic Doctor & Medical Director
BSC (HONS) MBBS MRCS PHD
Founder City Skin Clinic
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
Associate Member of British Association of Body Sculpting GMC Registered - 7049611

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