Study Finds Bearded Men Perceived as More Attractive and Masculine

A recent study has found that women perceive men with facial hair as more attractive, masculine, and socially mature compared to their clean-shaven counterparts. The research, which surveyed 8,520 women aged 18 to 100, asked participants to rate photos of men with varying degrees of facial hair.

The results showed that men with beards consistently scored higher on traditionally "alpha" qualities such as masculinity and social dominance. Researchers suggest this may be because facial hair can enhance the definition of the face and convey perceptions of age and masculinity. The most attractive level of facial hair was found to be stubble of approximately 10 days' growth.

While full, unkempt beards were not rated as highly, the study indicates that facial hair can be a desirable trait, especially in the context of long-term relationships. Beards may signal "intrasexual formidability" and the ability to provide benefits to potential mates. Interestingly, the study also discovered that gay men had stronger preferences for facial hair compared to heterosexual women.

The concept of male attractiveness and the role of facial features was further explored in the study. Characteristics such as a sharp jawline, prominent chin, broad jaw, and smaller, more rectangular eyes were considered more attractive and masculine. Men with lower body fat tend to have more angular facial structure. Thicker eyebrows were also associated with greater masculinity.

Why this matters: This study sheds light on the factors that influence perceptions of male attractiveness and how facial hair can impact social interactions. The findings have implications for understanding mate selection preferences and the role of physical appearance in shaping interpersonal dynamics.

While the presence of facial hair was generally favored, the study emphasizes that the ideal length is a well-groomed 10-day scruff. Overgrown beards were less preferred due to potential hygiene and grooming concerns. Some experts suggest that men may choose to shave their beards in certain social settings to reduce competition and intimidation. "The way men groom and shape their beards can also influence their attractiveness, with well-groomed scruff being compared to makeup on women," noted one of the researchers.

Key Takeaways

• Women perceive men with facial hair as more attractive, masculine, and socially mature.
• Stubble of 10 days' growth is the most attractive level of facial hair.
• Facial hair may signal "intrasexual formidability" and ability to provide benefits to mates.
• Characteristics like sharp jawline, prominent chin, and smaller eyes are considered attractive.
• Well-groomed scruff is preferred over unkempt beards due to hygiene and grooming concerns.