If you frequently kiss a bearded partner, you might want to reconsider that habit. Recent research reveals that men with beards harbor more germs than dogs do, which is a rather shocking revelation. Yes, you read that right—bearded men can be less hygienic than your canine companion.
The Hirslanden Clinic in Switzerland conducted a study involving 18 men with beards and found that their facial hair was teeming with bacteria. When comparing these samples to those taken from the necks of 30 dogs, the results were telling: the bearded men had a significantly higher microbial load. Alarmingly, seven of the participants carried microbes that could potentially harm their health. In contrast, the dogs exhibited “significantly” lower levels of bacteria. So, in this matchup between dogs and men, it’s clear who’s coming out on top.
Professor Mark Stevens, a researcher at the clinic, noted, “Our findings indicate that bearded men carry a considerably greater amount of microbes, including strains that could be pathogenic to humans. Based on this data, dogs appear to be cleaner than men with beards.”
But before you stop showing affection to your bearded sweetie and redirect all your love to your furry friend, Keith Flett, founder of the Beard Appreciation Society, argues that this study is just another episode in the ongoing saga of negative perceptions about beards. He stated, “You can find unpleasant bacteria in anyone’s hair and skin. I don’t think beards are inherently unhygienic. This seems to stem more from a fear or dislike of beards, known as pogonophobia.”
This isn’t the first time scientists have found alarming bacteria levels in beards. A microbiologist, Sarah Thompson, previously swabbed a few bearded individuals in Denver and discovered that their facial hair contained normal bacteria levels, some of which were shockingly similar to those found in toilets. I can hardly fathom that!
If you’re considering a serious conversation with your partner about beard hygiene, experts recommend a three-pronged strategy. According to the University Pittsburgh Medical Center, beard maintenance is essential. Regular shampooing and conditioning, just like the hair on your head, along with frequent trims and a commitment to healthy eating and sleep habits, can help keep those bacteria at bay.
Let’s hope that bearded individuals address these germ issues quickly. Until then, it seems we’ll be saving our affectionate kisses for our loyal, clean dogs. For more on fertility and family planning, check out our other blog posts, like this one on couples’ fertility journey.
In summary, while it’s tempting to associate beards with rugged masculinity, the truth is that they might be harboring more germs than you’d like to think. If you’re interested in fertility insights, visit charting your basal body temperature. For those expecting, March of Dimes offers an excellent resource for understanding pregnancy week by week.