Intervene in the hormonal balance to stop hair loss. That can’t be healthy, can it? Finasteride is that dangerous
Some promises make you skeptical because they are too close to the fulfillment of a dream: swallow one tablet with the active ingredient finasteride a day, and the hair loss stops.
Even better: hair even grows back. It sounds too good to be true.
The miracle pill has one very obvious catch: you have to swallow a medication every day that interferes with your hormonal balance. Please? Yes, we reacted that way too.
How are you supposed to achieve a full head of hair, and is that even healthy? We wanted to know that, too. That’s why we at Dr. Désirée Hölscher, a dermatologist and hair expert at the renowned Dermatologicum in Hamburg, asked.
What is finasteride, and how does it work?
The active ingredient influences the male hormonal balance. Taking less dihydrotestosterone (DHT) produces testosterone from testosterone. DHT not only ensures the development of the male sexual organs in children but also the growth of body hair. It can also cause hair loss later in life.
“DHT shortens the growth phase of the hair until the follicles, the growth engines for the hair, finally die. The result: the hair thins,” says hair expert Dr. Hölscher, adding: “By taking finasteride, DHT production is blocked. Hair loss is stopped, and hair density can increase,” says Dr. Hölscher. We have compiled further information about hair loss here.
Patience and perseverance are prerequisites for success. Because it can take a few months for the effect to become visible. “The first positive effects can be expected after 3–6 months. The active ingredient works for 90 percent of all users.” The big catch is that the drug has severe side effects. And is therefore not the first recommendation from experienced hair loss experts like Dr. Hölscher.
What side effects does finasteride have?
Finasteride requires a prescription and may only be taken after an intensive consultation with a doctor. These side effects are known:
Erection problems
Loss of libido
Depression with suicidal thoughts
Chronic pain
Sleep problems and lack
No blood may be donated
“There has therefore been a Red Hand letter for the medication since 2018. Every patient must be thoroughly informed about these side effects. Finasteride is not one of my first recommendations due to the possible known side effects. If a patient wants to take finasteride, he or she must do so with his signature confirming that he has been informed about side effects and accepts them,” says Dr. Désirée Hölscher.
Tip: As an alternative without serious side effects, the hair expert recommends using minoxidil preparations, which are applied externally to the scalp. The REGAINE men’s foam with 5 percent minoxidil reactivates inactive hair roots and thus supports the formation of new hair.
What happens if I stop finasteride?
As soon as finasteride is stopped, hair loss starts again. It is difficult to generalize whether and how quickly any side effects will subside. Sometimes they persist even after the medication is stopped.
Experts suspect that the drug permanently damages the hormonal balance and thus the balanced mood, which can ultimately lead to ongoing psychological problems. Erectile dysfunction can also persist beyond the end of the medication period.
You should think carefully before taking pills carelessly just for hair loss. The chances of success are high, but so is the risk of lasting side effects. We think hair loss isn’t so bad. There are lower-risk remedies, such as minoxidil, and hairstyles that you can use to conceal hair loss.
Find out what types of hair loss there are, whether you have hair loss and what really helps with impending baldness
If you look in the mirror and see a receding hairline and the beginnings of a bald head, your good mood is over. For many men, hair loss is like losing their potency. Even in the Bible, Samson lost his superhuman strength when his hair was cut off. So that today’s guys don’t feel that way, around 200 million euros for hair care products go over the checkout counters of cosmetic stores every year.
How much hair loss is normal?
Half of men over the age of 20 have to expect to lose their hair. Losing up to 100 hairs a day is not a reason to panic, but rather completely normal. Only when this amount is significantly exceeded over a longer period of time is it medically referred to as pathological hair loss.
So that you don’t have to pull out the remaining hair, we have put together the best methods, active ingredients, and remedies for hair loss in men for you and informed you about the latest scientific status on laser therapy against hair loss and hair transplantation technologies.
What types of hair loss are there?
There are three particularly common forms of hair loss in men: genetic hair loss, circular hair loss and diffuse hair loss.
Below, we will explain how you can tell which form you are suffering from and what can help.
1: Genetic hair loss in men
Doctors call it androgenetic alopecia; for those affected, it is a receding hairline and the circular tonsure on the back of the head, which are slowly but surely moving towards each other—in short: male pattern baldness.
The masculine thing about it?
Genetic hair loss usually becomes noticeable in your twenties. Photo: Phim Sri / Shutterstock.com
The cause of the continuous hair loss is the male sex hormone testosterone or its breakdown product dihydrotestosterone (DHT): Testosterone is broken down into dihydrotestosterone in the scalp. It shortens the growth phase of the hair until the follicles, the growth engines for the hair, finally die.
The result: the hair thins.
With a 95 percent probability, DHT is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Genetically caused hair loss usually begins between the ages of 20 and 30. Depending on your personal genetic makeup, the hair on your head only begins to thin on the forehead or the back of your head. Complete baldness rarely develops; a fringe of hair often remains on the back of the head.
Do you want to know what you will look like when you get older? Then it helps to take a look at the ancestral gallery: your hair loss is often similar to that of your father and grandfather. Three factors determine the course of the disease: heredity, age and the sensitivity of the follicles to male hormones. “According to statistics, 60 percent of all Central Europeans have to expect thin hair or baldness,” says dermatologist Hans Wolff from the Ludwig-Maximilians- University in Munich.
By the way: The extent of hair loss is not related to the natural level of the male hormone testosterone: bald heads are no more potent than full-haired people. However, they usually tend to have increased body hair.
2: Circular hair loss in men
A widespread and rapid loss of hair occurs in the so-called alopecia areata, circular hair loss. Identifying signs are circular gaps in the hair that are approximately the size of a coin. It occurs in one to two percent of hair loss cases and can even affect children.
With circular hair loss, gaps the size of a coin are created. Photo: Alex Papp / Shutterstock.com
Particularly insidious: It occurs when people are completely healthy and sometimes not only the head is affected, but also other body hair, such as beard, eyelashes or genital hair. If you’re unlucky, you’ll suddenly find yourself completely hairless.
The good news: With circular hair loss, the follicles do not die, they simply stop growing. Hair can grow back at any time and without any therapy. It is believed that a malfunction of the immune system plays a role in circular hair loss. Defense cells are misdirected and target components of the hair. The result is that the hair roots become paralyzed.
Genes also play a role here: circular hair loss occurs frequently in affected families, often together with neurodermatitis, hay fever, vitiligo or thyroid disorders. If you’re also interested: This helps with gray hair
3: Diffuse hair loss in men
Regardless of age and hormone levels, diffuse hair loss ( effluvium diffusum ) can occur. It is typical for a rapid onset without any particular localization. There are no receding hairlines or circular bald spots here; the hair becomes thinner all over the head.
Is your hair becoming thinner overall? Then we speak of diffuse hair loss. Photo: Diego Cervo / Shutterstock.com
The causes that drive hair from growth into the resting phase and from the head after a few weeks are not 100 percent scientifically clear. Possible causes include fever attacks (above 39 degrees Celsius), flu-like infections or chronic inflammation, which usually precede hair loss by a few months. In addition to health, the lack of protein or trace elements can also lead to an undersupply of important nutrients – especially iron or zinc – to the hair roots in the long term. Likewise, intolerance to medication can force the hair to escape from the scalp. In addition, psychological causes are also triggers for diffuse hair loss. Many sufferers report that stress led to the loss of their fuzzy head.
Typically, the clearing on the head does not begin until a few months after the triggering event. So if you want to know what is causing your sudden hair loss, you have to develop your detective instinct.
Other causes of hair loss in men:
It’s not just androgens, the male hormones, that can cause deforestation. You can also leave your hair when doping anabolic steroids to improve performance or gain muscle.
Fungal infections on the scalp disrupt hair growth.
Are you suffering from a lot of stress? Get more peace of mind. Because stress can also lead to (usually temporary) hair loss.
A one-sided diet low in vitamins and nutrients affects the hair roots. Particularly important for hair growth: iron, zinc, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C and E as well as B3, B6 and B12. In practice this means: lots of vegetables, fish more often and don’t forget the fruit. Positive side effect: Your health also benefits from it.
What helps with hair loss?
As you now know, there are not only different forms of hair loss in men but also numerous causes. So before you rush into the drugstore or pharmacy and invest a lot of money in promising hair growth products, you should clarify the exact cause of your hair loss.
Which doctor do you go to if you have hair loss?
The best addresses for this are hair consultations with hair doctors. For example, they examine the scalp under a microscope, analyze the hair roots (trichogram), take tissue samples (scalp biopsy) and create a hormone status. Using their services is not always covered by health insurance. Nevertheless, it makes sense to have a precise diagnosis made by a specialist in order to begin optimally tailored therapy. And as early as possible! Even the best therapies can usually only stop hereditary hair loss, but cannot bring back the lost hair.
What really helps against hair loss in men?
Not every hair loss remedy delivers what it promises. However, the following active ingredients and methods to combat hair loss have been scientifically proven.
Every man wishes to reverse hair loss. Photo: Nauma/Shutterstock
Redensyl for hereditary hair loss
The newest and most promising active ingredient on the market is the molecule complex Redensyl. Based on the findings of stem cell research, it reactivates inactive cells and stimulates blood circulation, supplying the hair follicles with important nutrients and vitamins.
The first visible successes appear around 6-10 weeks after the start of treatment, but anyone who starts the therapy first needs to have strong nerves: before hair growth starts again, there will be increased hair loss.
This so-called shedding shows that the therapy is working: hair with a short lifespan is shed and makes room for thicker, longer-lasting hair.
Minoxidil for hereditary hair loss
Minoxidil came onto the market in the 1970s as a drug to treat high blood pressure.
Common side effect: increased hair growth. The pharmaceutical industry took advantage of this and developed a 5% minoxidil solution that men apply to their thinning hair twice a day – with scientifically proven success in many, although not all, cases. Today, over-the-counter Minoxidil products are among the most sold anti-hair loss products in pharmacies (a daily dose costs around 1 euro).
Finasteride for hereditary hair loss
The drug has long been considered the gold standard for hair loss. The results were and are impressive. Unfortunately, there are also side effects. Because finasteride has often been associated with depression and erectile dysfunction, the drug now has the “Red Hand Letter”. Be sure to read our article about why finasteride can be dangerous for hair loss.
Topical immunotherapy for circular hair loss
In the case of circular hair loss, the body’s defense system is directed against its hair follicles. Hair growth stops, but the hair root remains. Topical immunotherapy involves targeted contact sensitization of the scalp with diphenylcyprone (DPC) or squaric acid dibutyl ester (SQADBE).
The chemicals are applied to the scalp and are said to trigger an allergy, known as contact dermatitis. The resulting inflammatory reaction is intended to “distract” the immune system so that the hair root can produce hair again. The maximum 2% DPC solution is applied to the scalp once a week in the doctor’s office. Side effects include slight redness and flaking on the treated areas.
“This treatment method is scientifically recognized and is now considered the most successful form of therapy for circular hair loss,” says dermatologist and hair expert Dr. Frank-Matthias Schaart from Hamburg, “The healing rate of this form of therapy is around 40%.” DPC treatment usually lasts 1 to 1.5 years and is gradually discontinued. The costs of around 230 euros per quarter are not covered by all health insurance companies.
Cortisone against hair loss in men
Cortisone suppresses immune reactions and is therefore also used as a remedy against circular hair loss. Hair doctors inject it under the hair roots or prescribe it in tablet form to stop hair loss. However, the relapse rate is very high once it is stopped.
Mesotherapy for diffuse and androgenetic hair loss
“In this form of therapy, highly effective growth factors are injected into the cooled scalp using microfine needles to stimulate new hair growth,” explains Schaart. The procedure is carried out twice a week for a period of up to 6 weeks.
The procedure promises good results, especially for men with diffuse and hereditary hair loss. However, the health insurance companies usually do not pay the costs of around 150 euros per session. We have tested the procedure: Read here how well plasma injections really help against hair loss
Laser for diffuse and hereditary hair loss
Laser therapy options have increased immensely in recent years. In his Hamburg practice, hair doctor Schaart successfully treats men with diffuse and hereditary hair loss using diode lasers. Laser light from the infrared wavelength range is irradiated into the scalp.
This increases blood flow to the hair root and thus its supply of nutrients and energy. “On the one hand, this counteracts hair loss, and on the other hand, a strong activation of new hair growth is achieved,” says Schaart.
A single laser session lasts around 30 minutes and costs around 55 euros. In total, you should expect 6-12 months of treatment with initially 2 sessions per week and later with appointments every 2 weeks.
In the case of circular hair loss, the doctor uses a fractional laser. Schaart: “With its help, the activity of the tiny, complex motor of the hair root is maximally stimulated by micro-fine injury stimuli deep under the scalp, thereby stimulating new hair growth.” Treatments must be carried out every 4 weeks; the costs are between 50 and 350 euros (whole head), depending on the size of the area.
Shampoos and hair tonics with caffeine for fuller hair
High doses of caffeine-containing hair tonics are able to supply blood to deeper layers of the scalp so that still-active follicles can produce stronger hair, resulting in a fuller hair appearance.
The best-known representative of this product group is the caffeine liquid from Alpecin. You can find an overview of other products specifically against hair loss here: The best products against hair loss.
Hair transplant as a last resort
Since men like Jürgen Klopp and Wayne Rooney officially committed to their hair transplants, transplanting their hair has become a serious option for many men with remaining hair (and a lush account).
During a hair transplant, hair from the hairline is transplanted onto the top of the head. Photo: sezer66/Shutterstock
Since hair on the back of the head is less sensitive to hormones, it usually remains despite hair loss. About half of the hair from the hairline can be removed without the loss becoming obvious. The surgeon (now a robot can also do this) transplants healthy hair roots from densely hairy areas on the back of the head further forward.
“The hair transplant is usually carried out on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and takes 3 to 6 hours,” explains Dr. Frank Neidel, President of the Association of German Hair Surgeons. The costs are between 3,000 and 10,000 euros and are usually not covered by health insurance. Are you interested in the topic? Then be sure to take a look at our test report on a hair transplant .
There are two common hair transplant methods: the removal of hair roots from a narrow strip of skin with hair root separation on a microscope ( strip method ) and the removal of individual hair roots using thin hollow needles ( follicular unit extraction, FUE method ). Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. “Be careful with providers who only advertise one method,” warns Neidel. “An experienced surgeon has mastered all techniques, will be able to determine the best one and justify his decision.”
Since 2015, the FUE method (individual removal) can also be carried out with the help of a robotic system. The advantage of this system is the precise, automated removal of individual hair roots from the hairline. As with any individual removal technique (FUE), the removal area must be shaved over a large area to a hair length of 1 mm.
Neidel: “This technique is usually ruled out for most women or for managers and executives who don’t want to suddenly appear bald at work. Especially young men aged 20-30 who have an ‘undercut’ or ‘bald head’ wear, benefit from this technology.”
20% of all hair transplants worldwide are now carried out using the FUE harvesting technique, and 80% of all patients are treated using strip harvesting.
Important: Be sure to seek out a specialist who is recognized (approved) by the medical association and who, if possible, carries out hair transplants on a daily basis. “It’s also very important to get advice from your doctor and ask about training and further education,” advises Neidel. If you are unsure, get a second opinion. If you’re still not sure, it’s better to wear a toupee – or a bald head!
Is a toupee really an option?
Do you remember André Agassi, how he played his Grand Slam tournaments with a long, wild mane of hair and a headband? What no one knew at the time was that the hair was wrong and the tennis professional was wearing toupees.
In his biography “Open”, he impressively describes what it felt like during sweaty games, as well as his fear of losing the hairpiece during a match. It’s a good thing that toupees have developed further in recent years, so that wearing toupees can be comfortable even for athletes. The advantages are: no health risk as with a hair transplant, zero side effects as with tablets or tinctures against hair loss.
These two methods achieve amazingly real effects:
Artfully braided Making an invisible wig begins with a plaster cast of your head. Based on this impression, specialists create a fine mesh that lies on the head like a second skin. This ensures that the hair replacement fits like a tailor-made suit. Thousands of hairs are woven into the net, the color patterns of which are exactly matched to your hair color. In Germany, this technology is known under the names Skinlight and Sensigraft.
Connected to the scalp in a skin-friendly way: To ensure that the hairpiece holds, the scalp is shaved smoothly in the area to be filled. The professionals at OC Hairsystems leave as much of their hair as possible. The system is then attached to 100 percent real hair: Depending on the condition of your scalp and the size of the hair system, it is attached to the skin either with a special liquid adhesive, skin-friendly adhesive tape strips, or a mix of both. Don’t worry; everything is completely invisible and super durable. Finally, the incision follows: The stylist cuts a transition from your remaining real hair to the hairpiece so that no deceptive edges remain later. Anything is possible when it comes to cutting, as long as your hair on the sides and back of the head is of the appropriate length. Anyone interested in OC Hairsystems can take advantage of a free video consultation as a first step in which their personal hair situation and an on-site appointment are discussed.
With the Folium step-by-step method from HairDreams, especially for men, a small toupee is first glued on, which becomes larger every month when it is replaced, so that the transition to more hair again is unobtrusive and gives the impression that the hair is growing back.
Why do men suffer so much from hair loss?
Compared to their European neighbors, Germans suffer significantly more psychologically from their hair problems, according to a survey by the GALLUP institute among 1,500 European men. 62 percent of all Europeans say that hair loss affects their self-esteem. it is even 76 percent. And while hair loss causes depression in an average of 21 percent of those affected across Europe, in Germany it is 43 percent.
Many also perceive hair loss as a brake on flirting: 46 percent feel inhibited from approaching women because of their thinning hair. More than one in three Germans also believe that they receive less attention when flirting because of their hair loss (38 percent). 68 percent say hair loss makes them insecure.
Do women still find bald men attractive?
Luckily, it’s unlikely that hair combed over the forehead à la Donald Trump will ever become a trend. These tricks will make you appear much more confident and attractive despite progressive hair loss:
Give yourself a side parting. Although it emphasizes the receding hairline on one side, a quiff on the other side still creates an impression of fullness.
Wear baseball caps or hats that cover advanced hair loss. However, the remaining hair underneath should not be longer than 5 to 6 millimeters long.
Combine your bald head with a 3-day beard trimmed to the same length. Read here how to properly shave and care for your head.
Before you embark on the hair transplant adventure or spend a lot of money to grow your hair back, you should at least think about whether baldness would really be a visual disadvantage for you. Not every type of man has a bald head, no question about it. But more and more men are embracing their thinning hair. And more and more women find bald men sexy.
Already knew? Your hairstyle influences how well you are received by women. These three styles make you particularly sexy
To end up with the female gender, it’s worth taking a look in the mirror and taking a closer look at your hairstyle. Of course, the inner values count. But the truth is that women classify you as a stereotype based on your haircut.
The good news: It’s not that complicated. A study by the “Wahl Clipper Corporation” examined exactly that. The result: women love classic looks. What exactly does that look like? You’ll look particularly good with these three hairstyles:
1: Men score points with women with side partings
With a classic side parting and a hint of a quiff, you can easily wrap women around your finger. Because it makes you appear intelligent, courteous, and confident. And that works! The female gender assumes that this look means a man with a successful job. Whoever then holds the door open or helps the lady out of her jacket fits the pattern perfectly.
What do I say to my hairdresser?
To achieve the woman’s favorite look, the hair on the sides is cut shorter and the top hair is left longer. But it has nothing to do with the undercut. The transitions are soft, and the hair on the side sections is not simply shaved to one length.
How do I style the hairstyle?
Style the top hair upwards with hair wax. We recommend, for example, the Natural Wax from Santé. Your loved one is welcome to mess it up. Women love that too. By the way, this look is also one of the best hairstyles for a receding hairline.
2: Women love ultra-short men’s hairstyles
The super short crew cut, or crew cut in German, is also very popular with ladies. The best proof that women are weakened by men with ultra-short hair is former “Sexiest Men Alive” Channing Tatum. The word has probably gotten around.
Short hair is very popular with ladies. Photo: Parker Whitson / Unsplash.com
After all, the classic can already be seen on many men’s heads. Anyone who wears this hairstyle appears trustworthy, intelligent, and reliable. Just like someone in whose arms a woman wants to fall.
According to the study, especially if they are between 18 and 34 years old, they embody the image of a man who can tackle things and also supports his loved ones as a do-it-yourselfer.
What do I tell my hairdresser?
For the look, the hair on the sides is shortened to around 15 millimeters. From the ear upwards, they become longer and longer, so that the top hair is the longest. The hairstyle can even be cut with a machine. But if you are not familiar with it, it is worth making an appointment with a professional. After all, you want to impress women with your hairstyle, and you don’t want the cut to look like an accident.
How do I style the hairstyle? Rub a dollop of styling cream in your hands and run your fingers through the top hair. You’re done!
3: You can turn women’s heads with messy, messy hairstyles
The wilder the better: This hairstyle can look a little like you just jumped out of bed; the idea makes the ladies want more. Women of all ages would get involved with a man who wore this hairstyle.
Messy hair is well-received by women. Photo: Jonathan Zerger / Unsplash.com
This is probably also due to the rock star image they associate with it. But no matter whether you can sing or not, you’ll look attractive with a fuzzy head either way. The disheveled hair makes you look lovable, relaxed, and interesting.
What do I tell my hairdresser?Caution: The fuzzy look has absolutely nothing to do with “being unkempt.”. A cut is also part of this hairstyle. The ears are cut free. The top hair and the upper sides are always left a little longer so that the hair falls casually.
How do I style the hairstyle? The nice thing about longer hair is that you can just as easily wear the mat with a side parting away from your face and have a completely different look. No matter which version you choose, it has to look a bit “messy.”. To do this, simply run your hands casually through your hair now and then. This makes women even wilder.
It’s better not to cut your hair too short
According to the study, those who wear their entire hair shortened to a few millimeters exude self-confidence, trust, and assertiveness, but only score points with 1 in 5 women. And only for those between the ages of 40 and 60. Sure, maybe a short haircut like this is practical. But that’s it. For those who aren’t blessed with a full head of hair, it’s still better to shave it all off.
Conclusion: With the right hairstyle, you will be better received
Basically, with short hair, you are well-received by women. The forelock shouldn’t be too short, because many women love to stroke through men’s shaggy hair—or when he wears his hair elegantly parted.
Gel or spray in, and you’re done? You can do it, but there is a better way. How and with what to style your hair correctly
Gel, wax, or paste—it’s the same thing in the end, right?
Not at all! If you use the right product for styling, it will be much easier to get your hair into the shape you want, and the look will last much longer.
Here we reveal which styling aid is intended for what and how to use the hair products correctly.
1: You can reshape your hair again and again with wax
If your friend likes to run their hands through your hair now and then, a wax is ideal. Rub a pea-sized dollop of it into the palms of your hands and, with your fingers spread, toss your dry (!) hair into shape. For example, with the bangs forward or with the parting casually out of the face. Wax sprays are completely new and can simply be misted on like hairspray, but do not cause a helmet effect.
2: A styling paste gives fine hair structure and volume
Hair pastes have the hold of wax but usually have a matte finish. This makes it perfect for men with fine, straight hair who want a little more volume.
The application is similar to wax: apply it to towel-dried or blow-dried hair and use your fingers to shape the strands into the desired shape.
Tip: If you want to style your hair away from your face, you can also use a hair paste as a “setting agent.”. To do this, distribute it through damp hair and then blow-dry the hair backward; this will give it more strength. Then rub a second dollop on your hands and shape your dry hair.
3: A pomade ensures a bombproof hold
Are you a regular at the barber and always wear your hair neatly parted? Then a pomade is just the right styling product for you. For a more matte look, use pomades on dry hair. For a shiny, wet look, you should apply the pomade to damp hair.
Rule of thumb: A pea-sized amount is enough for fine hair. For thick hair, you can double. Then shape the hair with a fine-toothed comb. By the way, these men’s hairstyles are currently trendy.
4: Salt spray gives soft hair more grip
Do you know that feeling when you’ve spent a day at the beach and your hair looks good because of the seawater? They have more grip and look fuller somehow. You don’t necessarily have to book a vacation to get the effect; you can simply spray a few spritzes of salt spray into damp hair.
Then blow dry or let it air dry. If you don’t want your hair to look too done, you can just leave it like that. Or define the hair a little more with wax. Because the strands now have more grip, they can be shaped much better.
Three-day beard, full beard, or mustache: The hair on your face needs to be cared for. Here you will find tips for proper beard care
Just let it grow and be fine. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Unfortunately, nature has blessed only very few men with an even beard and soft hair.
This is how you keep your beard in top shape.
Beard care step 1: wash your hair
Yes, beard hair needs to be washed daily! On the one hand, sweat and food particles accumulate in the gaps between the hair over the day. On the other hand, the skin sheds dead cells every day that get caught in the hair and can irritate the skin of the face.
The best way to clean your beard is with your daily shower. But please don’t use shower gel, as that would dry out the beard hair and quickly make it look brittle.
Better: just rinse with water and use a special beard shampoo about every three days. And if you don’t have that at hand, at least use a mild hair shampoo. Just like for your hair, there is also a conditioner for your beard. A beard conditioner makes the rough hair a little softer, so it doesn’t scratch as much and is easier to style later. Simply massage a small amount into your still-damp beard, rinse, and you’re done.
Beard care tip: Be careful when drying! Don’t rub or rub, just pat dry; beard hair quickly split ends. Therefore, be careful when blow-drying. If you want to blow dry your beard quickly, don’t do it too hot.
Beard care step 2: trim the wild growth
Only a regularly trimmed or trimmed beard will grow evenly and look well-groomed. Otherwise, a full beard will fray and mustaches can become an involuntary dirt-trap. You can easily trim 3-day beards with a shaving attachment on your electric razor. Special beard scissors are suitable for trimming longer beards to bring the hair back to the same length.
Beard care tip: Pay particular attention to ensuring that the contours of the desired beard shape are visible. This means your beard automatically looks well-groomed. The area where the sideburns merge into the beard needs to be touched up particularly often.
A beard needs more care than a shaved face. Photo: Drew Hays/Unsplash.com
Beard care step 3: tame stubborn hair
No matter the length of the beard, a beard needs more care than a shaved face. In addition to washing, shaving, and trimming, the daily care ritual also includes massaging beard oil. This makes the beard’s hair less prickly. Your girlfriend will thank you.
Beard care tip: Simply put 2 or 3 drops on your fingertips, rub in, and run your fingers through your beard. This way, you care for your beard hair and the skin on your chin. It makes the beard softer, and more malleable and gives it an elegant shine.
Beard care step 4: comb the beard into shape
Just as combing your hair is part of your daily morning ritual, your beard should also be combed every day. In this way, you may be able to conceal gaps in the beard and immediately see whether the beard hair has grown evenly or perhaps needs to be trimmed again soon.
Beard care tip: A beard comb is particularly suitable for smaller beards, such as a mustache. A fluffy beard brush is the ideal grooming equipment for those with a full beard.
Beard care step 5: Styling for a well-groomed beard
Bad hair day on your face? Special styling products offer quick help here. After the care routine, a wax or balm is ideal for trendy beard hairstyles like this one. Such styling products for the beard give the hair enough hold and shape without leaving stiff beard hair.
Beard care tip: A wax stick is perfect for on-the-go. Simply apply the wax—similar to lip balm—directly to the beard, shape it with your fingers, and you’re done.
Beard care products such as beard combs, brushes, scissors, shampoo, and oil are not frills but are an essential part of maintaining and caring for a beard.
Your friends suddenly all have mustaches, and you keep hearing the word “Movember.”? What’s behind it and why you too should wear a mustache now
The mustache is trendy! Whether as a flashy porn bar or delicate upper lip fluff,. “I know exactly what you’re thinking now, and you’re right, but…” the famous mustachioed Tom Selleck would say in his role as private detective Magnum. But? Yes but! The mustache may have something unique about it, but it also makes its wearer special.
“A mustache stands out from a normal three-day or full beard. It makes the wearer appear conspicuous, self-confident, and strong-willed—just like a man who knows what he wants,” says the barber and master hairdresser Francesco Bottini from Cologne, a King C. Gillette expert. Sounds good, right?
Now is exactly the right time to try out how a mustache suits you; after all, Movember is just around the corner. Movember? No spelling mistake! This term is a combination of the French “mustache” and the month of November.
What is Movember?
Movember is all about growing a mustache for a month. This year, Movember is taking place for the 17th time. The “Month of the Mustache” is not just fun and games; the whole thing has a serious background: The Movember Foundation has made it its mission to draw attention to men’s health. The focus is on testicular and prostate cancer as well as psychological problems.
The Movember idea: Whiskers are extraordinary; a man with a mustache is often asked about them. This way he gets attention and can explain the action to others.
Who is behind the mustache campaign?
By the way, like so many good ideas, the idea for Movember was born in the pub. Two Australian friends, Travis Garone and Luke Slattery, had a brainwave in 2003 and quickly convinced 30 brave men in their circle of acquaintances to take part in the Movember Challenge. A lot has happened since then: more than 5 million people worldwide have supported the project, and around 1,250 further health projects have been founded.
How can I take part in Movember?
It’s simple: To take part in the official Movember Challenge, all you have to do is set up a profile online at de.movember.com and you’re in. Shave-down is on October 31st, and then everything has to come off. So it’s a matter of breeding as hard as you can. But be careful; only mustaches are permitted, so the rest will continue to be clean-shaven regularly!
During the campaign, you should maintain your Mo profile on the website as well as your sprouting mustache, because this is how you generate donations. The best thing to do is to set up a team right away, whether with work colleagues or football friends The more beards and the more you talk about it and motivate others to donate, the larger the community and the more donations will flow.
Can I join in without a mustache?
Do you think the Movember idea is great, but a mustache isn’t your thing?
No problem. It has been possible to take part in the MOVE program since 2017. This means: Set yourself an active goal (for example, run 8 kilometers every day in November, swim a certain distance, or something similar). Accept the challenge and collect donations. This way, you can exercise for a good cause and do something good for your health at the same time. And good: Men with little beards and women can also take part in the campaign.
How do you grow a mustache?
A mustache needs to be well-groomed. Trimming it yourself regularly (or having it trimmed) is a must.
Barber Bottini advises: “First comb the hairs downwards and then style them from the middle of the lip to the left and right so that a middle parting can be seen in the mustache. Then, depending on the desired length, carefully cut off the protruding hairs with scissors or a trimmer.” The mustache hairs should extend longer from the middle of the lip outwards so that the beard later appears well-proportioned.
A mustache can take part in Movember, even without a beard. Photo: Stockshakir / Shutterstock.com
How do I care for a mustache?
In addition to the cut, the care also has to be right. Wash the schnauzer daily with a special beard shampoo. “Because the mustache is located directly above the mouth, unpleasant odors can arise from food and drinks in it,” says the barber. You can then use a beard balm to shape the hairs and make them nice and supple.
Here, you will find a selection of the best beard products.
How do I style a mustache?
Bottini’s professional trick: “So that the styling products work optimally, always massage into damp beard hair and then dry with a hairdryer on a medium setting.” Once the beard is dry, you will notice how it can be shaped. Is everything in place? Then blow cold water over it again to fix the shape. Complete!
Who would have thought that a few hairs above your upper lip could make such a difference? In any case, we think Movember is brilliant with its mix of fun and charity, and we get to admire new mustache creations from our colleagues every year.
Do you want to quickly grow out a bad cut or grow your hair from short to long? These six tips will make it quicker
Everyone knows this: the visit to the hairdresser went mediocre, and as soon as you leave, you pull out your phone to Google how you can accelerate hair growth. But can that actually work? We asked experts. So it’s good that you ended up here.
How fast does hair grow?
On average, about 1 to 1.5 centimeters per month on the head—that’s 12 to 18 centimeters per year. If you’re now thinking, “One and a half centimeters a month—that would be nice!” then you’re not alone. After all, we are talking about an average here. This means that for some people, their hair grows even faster, and for others, it grows a little slower. There is no reason to worry.
If you feel like your hair is growing in slo-mo, it could be due to a variety of reasons. How quickly the strands sprout in each individual is mainly determined by genes. “Stress is often the cause—for example, due to work or illness and strong medication,” says Julia Dieck, master hairdresser and owner of the Nova Hairstudio salon in Hamburg.
“During periods of stress, the body switches to ’emergency supply’ and primarily supplies the vital organs with vitamins and minerals—the scalp and hair are now the least of its worries.” Speaking of nutrients, deficiencies can also be to blame for poor growth. You can find the 10 best tips against stress here.
How can I speed up hair growth?
Good news for men with slow-growing hair: With the right tips and tricks, you can actually support your hair’s growth immensely. And as follows:
1: First, change your diet so that your hair grows better
A healthy diet plays an important role in how quickly your hair grows. White flour and refined sugar can cause inflammation around the hair roots. As a result, the hair doesn’t grow back at all or only grows very thinly. Other foods support growth. According to dermatologist and hair specialist Dr. Christian Merkel from the Skin and Laser Center at the Opera in Munich:
Nuts are rich in growth-promoting omega-3 fatty acids, copper, and biotin.
Avocados contain vitamins B, C, and E in addition to folic acid and good fatty acids.
Fish contains a lot of iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential proteins.
Do you feel like your hair is not only growing slowly but also less and less? Then you should also take a close look at your menu. These are the best foods for hair loss
2: Start using hair growth supplements now
“If, despite all of our tips, the hair does not grow as quickly as desired, we recommend visiting a specialized dermatologist,” says Dr. Merkel. “Through a professional analysis of the blood, deficiencies can be identified and specifically treated.” Dietary supplements are recommended for this. “The vitamins and minerals in dietary supplements help to provide the body with everything it needs for optimal hair growth,” explains Lückemann. However, you should keep in mind that hair supplements can only work if there is a deficiency and can in no way replace a healthy diet.
3: Be extra gentle on your scalp
“Hair is like plants; they only grow on good breeding grounds,” says Lückemann. So, treat your scalp well and keep it healthy. Therefore, get into the habit of shampooing your hair with caution when washing and rinsing out any remaining shampoo well with lukewarm water. Then don’t rub your hair too hard with the towel, but rather “press” it dry.
Tip: Microfiber towels like these from Blumtal are very absorbent and gentler on the hair and scalp than coarse terrycloth towels. Then only blow dry your hair lukewarm, as heat stresses the scalp. And the more stressed it is, the worse the growing conditions. By the way: This can also speed up your beard growth
4: Pay close attention to the ingredients in your shampoo
If you want your hair to grow faster and fuller, you should care for it accordingly. It’s best to choose hair care products that offer the hair roots an optimal mix of nutrients and at the same time invigorate them, for example, shampoo with caffeine or mint extracts.
Our tip: Schwarzkopf Men Growth Factor Shampoo with Arginine, which activates hair growth. You can find more products that help your business grow in our overview: The best hair care products to support hair growth
5: Boost your blood circulation
“Good blood circulation is crucial for healthy hair growth,” says Dr. Merkel. “Only then will the hair roots be optimally supplied with nutrients.” For example, start doing endurance exercises so that your blood vessels dilate. “Massaging the scalp can also help,” says Dr. Merkel. And stop smoking. Easier said than done? This is how you can quit smoking.
6: Give up your bad habits
Manual stress can prevent hair from growing quickly and optimally. Those wearing hats and helmets should be careful not to pull their hair unnecessarily when putting them on or taking them off. It’s also really bad if you often pull your hair out with your hands out of habit. If the hair root is constantly irritated, it reacts irritably and reduces its productivity.
Are there products that stimulate hair growth?
Spray solution with Redensyl molecular complex from PANTHRIX, €39.95. Photo: Panthrix / PR
Yes, many products entice you to buy them with the promise of stimulating hair growth. The latest and most promising product comes from Panthrix. This hair growth activator is based on stem cell research and is composed of the molecule complex Redensyl, as well as caffeine and keratin. If used daily, you can expect the first visible results after around 6–10 weeks. However, you should expect that so-called “shedding” will occur. This describes short-term, severe, but positive hair loss and is a sign that the treatment is working. Hair with a short lifespan falls out, making way for thicker, longer-lasting hair.
From proper hair care to exercise and nutrition: You now know that you can optimize your hair growth in many ways. A bad haircut is quickly history. By the way: If you want to grow your hair from short to long, you will find the perfect step-by-step hairstyle guide here so that you can look perfectly coiffed even in the transitional period.
Do you want to grow your hair? But you don’t know where you want to go. Then let these celebrity looks inspire you
Are you thinking about growing your hair?
To grow your hair properly for a few months?
Throwing it casually backward like Timothée Chalamet or, even better, carrying it over your shoulders like Jared Leto? Then you are right here.
We’ll show you the coolest long hairstyles of celebrity men and reveal how to style your long mane correctly.
Is long hair fashionable for men right now?
And how! Celebrity men like Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto prove that long hairstyles are some of the coolest men’s hairstyles currently available.
We show four particularly popular long hairstyles here:
Timothée Chalamet wears his dark curls chin-length and layered. Photo: Shutterstock.com
1: Half-length men’s hairstyle like Timothée Chalamet
The “Call Me By Your Name” star wears her curly hair chin-length and heavily layered. The latter is important so that the hairstyle does not look like a bob haircut for women. To get the waves as good as the 25-year-old actor’s, apply a sea salt spray like this one from Charlemagne to towel-dried hair after washing. Then do not comb or blow-dry the strands, but rather shape them with your fingers spread and let them air dry. Otherwise, the curls will fluff up, and the hair will appear to have exploded.
2: Chest-length hair like Jared Leto
The actor and singer has had pretty much every length and color of hair. But his favorite is extra-long, dark hair. The 49-year-old has never returned to any other hairstyle so often. For long hair to look as healthy right down to the tips as Jared Leto’s, it should be well cared for. Use a mild shampoo (e.g. Creme de Coco from Bumble & Bumble ) that doesn’t dry out unnecessarily and use a conditioner (also called conditioner) with every wash.
The long mat in the Jesus look has become Jared Leto’s trademark. Photo: Shutterstock.com
We recommend the Don’t Despair, Repair! from Briogeo to protect your ends from split ends and hair breakage. Important: Conditioner only goes to the lengths, not onto the scalp. Otherwise, the mat will quickly look greasy. Read here how your hair grows faster.
3: Disguise transitional length like Jake Gyllenhaal
Most men give up halfway through the growing hair project. Namely, when the strands reach just above the ears, fluff up strangely, or fall like a Beatles mushroom head. Instead of using scissors, you can do like actor Jake Gyllenhaal. The 40-year-old Hollywood star wears his medium-length hair parted and combed behind his ears. At first glance, the look looks like a well-groomed short haircut. Perfect if you always have to look perfectly groomed in the office.
Jake Gyllenhaal conceals the transitional length with a side parting. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Styling tip: To ensure that the hair stays where you comb it, it is best to use a holding styling paste such as the Gentleman Hair Styling Matt Paste from Percy Nobleman. You can find even more transitional hairstyles for men here.
4: Long hair in a skater style like Justin Bieber
One long-hair look that has often been ripped apart in the tabloid press for being unkempt, but in our opinion comes across as pretty cool, is Justin Bieber’s chin-length hairstyle. Admittedly, if the 27-year-old singer used conditioner, the hairstyle would look nicer. But with a hat you can create a casual nineties-style skater look.
Justin Bieber goes for a casual look with medium-length hair and a beanie. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Practical: You don’t have to worry about styling or constant hairdresser appointments. And if you want to appear more coiffed, you can always comb your mat back like Jake Gyllenhaal.
What type of man can wear long hair?
Long hair can be worn by anyone who wants it and whose hair is full enough. Because the longer the mat, the more hair loss is accentuated. Otherwise: There is a suitable long hairstyle for every face shape. If your face is round, the hairstyle around your face shouldn’t be too layered (that’s noticeable). The looks of Jake Gyllenhall and Jared Leto, for example, would be flattering. If your face is elongated, steps like Timothée Chalamet’s are just right. Talk to your hairdresser about which long hairstyle suits you best.
How is long hair received by women?
Sometimes well, sometimes not at all. Some women love running their fingers through shaggy men’s hair. Others first have to get used to the fact that a man has hair of similar length or even longer than them. In the end, you should wear the hairstyle you like anyway. Because then you radiate self-confidence and everyone finds that sexy.
If you’ve been thinking about growing your hair for a while, now is exactly the right time. Why? Because long hair has never been more fashionable for men. And because you now have plenty of inspiration to choose a long hair look that suits you just right.
Whether wet or dry shaving: We compare the most important types of razors and answer the most frequently asked questions
What should I pay attention to when buying a razor?
Find out which type of razor is best for you. We present the different variants in detail below.
Dry or wet shaving? Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Dry shaving is particularly time-saving and safer for the skin. The classic wet shave, on the other hand, is more thorough and precise but also more expensive in the long term.
It’s worth comparing: Many razors offer expensive comfort functions that you may not even need. You can save a lot of money here.
Pay attention not only to the purchase costs but also to the follow-up costs!
Razors in comparison
Wet, foil or rotary razor? If you still have no idea which razor is right for you, you can find the right model for you in our detailed buying guide.
Wet razors shave particularly thoroughly
Classic wet shaving is considered to be significantly more thorough and precise than dry shaving. Between two and five blades are usually used. Due to their extreme sharpness, the risk of injuries or skin irritation is high. However, with patience, care, and the right care, such as shaving gel and aftershave, this can be easily prevented. High-quality wet razors also offer moisture strips and skin protection slats to glide better over the skin and provide additional protection.
Buy recommendation: The Gillette Fusion 5 ProGlide. The anti-friction coating makes shaving particularly pleasant and clean.
Foil shavers are particularly gentle on the skin
Compared to rotary razors, electric shavers with a foil shaving head are considered to be gentle on the skin because the thin shaving foil acts as a protective buffer zone between the skin and the blade block. The best shaving results are achieved when straight lines are drawn over the skin. Thanks to its rectangular shape, the foil razor is also ideal for men with partial beards, as contours can be easily traced.
Purchase recommendation: Stiftung Warentest named the new Braun Series 9 Pro as a test winner (grade: 1.6) in its 10/2021 test issue. We also think it’s great because it shaves quickly, gently, and thoroughly.
Rotary shavers are quick and easy
When it comes to a close shave, the rotary system is in no way inferior to the foil razor. Only the way it works is different. Here, the beard hairs are captured from several sides by three rotating blade heads. The best shaving result can be achieved with this mechanism using circular movements. The biggest advantage of the rotary shaver is that the three shaving heads are particularly flexible and fit better into angular areas, such as the chin.
Buy recommendation: The Series 9000 from Philips. Thanks to SkinIQ technology, the intelligent shaver provides feedback on the pressure exerted, recognizes the contours of the face, guides through the shave, and adjusts accordingly.
Razor FAQ: We answer the most important questions
Which razor is suitable for sensitive skin?
Electric shavers are considered to be gentler on the skin and prevent cuts. But there are also options for classic wet shaving: with more intensive care before, during, and after shaving, razor burns, skin irritations, and pimples can also be easily avoided. We recommend Kiehl’s Close-Shavers Squadron Smooth Glider shaving cream. Does your skin still burn? This is how you avoid razor burns.
Is wet shaving with an electric razor worth it?
There are now more and more waterproof models that can be used for wet or dry shaving. The advantage of wet shaving is that shaving directly in the shower or with nourishing foam usually feels more pleasant. However, shaving takes longer and it is harder to see where you have already shaved.
What is the best way to clean my razor?
The operating instructions for the electric shaver contain instructions for the ideal cleaning of the device. Some models also offer an automatic self-cleaning function, including disinfection. It is best to rinse wet razors thoroughly under warm water after shaving and let them air dry.
When should I replace the blade or shaving head?
The major manufacturers of electric shavers recommend replacing the shaving head after 18 to 24 months. With classic wet razors, the shaving frequency and quality of the blade(s) are crucial. Rule of thumb: roughly after two weeks—or as soon as the blade no longer cuts effortlessly.
Which additional features are worthwhile for an electric shaver?
A fold-out or extendable precision trimmer for detail work, a travel case, or a cleaning station can be pretty handy. However, the latter can be quite expensive due to expensive cartridges. Alternatively, it’s worth choosing a completely waterproof model that can then be cleaned in the shower in the morning, for example.
Conclusion: Choosing the perfect razor is a question of your type
If you want to get your daily shave done as quickly and easily as possible, it’s best to use an electric razor. Wet shaving, on the other hand, takes a little more time, but is also more thorough and can easily be expanded into a particularly pleasant and comprehensive care ritual for skin and hair.
If you shave often, you also have to change the blades often. But what does that mean, and when will it happen at the latest?
Blades for modern system razors are manufactured so that they can be used around 5–10 times on average. So much for theory. For some, this may be exactly true. For others, this seems far too early or too late. Why? Here are the details:
How often can I use a razor blade?
How long you can use your razor blades depends largely on how thick your beard hair is and whether you shave everything every time or just clean the contours.
The following applies: the thicker and denser the hair, the faster razor blades wear out. 8 times is the maximum here. If your beard grows rather finely or you only shave the contours, you will have to replace it less often. Then you can use the blades 10 times, if not longer. At the latest, when the lubricating strips dissolve, the razor head should go into the trash.
What if I cut myself more easily with fresh blades?
Fresh blades are the gentlest because they cut the hair the cleanest. But many men also find that a new head only gets good after the second or third shave because they can easily cut themselves with very fresh, super-sharp blades. Is that the case with you too? It’s understandable if you want to delay changing for as long as possible. But you shouldn’t wait too long. Otherwise, you risk even more annoying skin irritations.
Rinse the razor with hot water and let it dry with the head facing up. Photo: Laura Mitulla / Unsplash.com
Tip: Try to reduce pressure when shaving. This also reduces the risk of cuts.
Why do I have to change the blades so often?
Every time you shave, the blades wear down a bit before eventually becoming dull. The problem is that if the blades are dull, the hair will eventually just get caught in between them. Instead of cutting them off cleanly, you pluck them out of the skin. Which often results in skin irritations such as ingrown hairs. Tips for ingrown beard hair can be found here.
How do razor blades stay sharper?
The problem is deposits between the blades: hair, shaving cream, and dead skin. Please do not remove the dirt with a towel! The lint also clogs the blades. It is much better to rinse the razor with hot (!) water again and again during and after shaving and then let it dry with the head facing up. Under no circumstances should you leave the shaving head on the wet sink or in the damp shower; water will cause the lubricating strips to wear out even faster.
In addition, germs have optimal growth conditions in moist, warm conditions. To be on the safe side, you can also disinfect the razor before using it again. Be sure to let the disinfectant dry completely to avoid skin irritation. We recommend the quick-drying SOS disinfectant spray.
Important: Use different razors for your face and intimate areas. Otherwise, the razor will quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria you keep rubbing into your face. After clicking, you can find out how to properly shave underneath in our intimate shaving guide.
Also important: Don’t buy the cheapest blades. The following applies: quality has its price. For sensitive skin, we recommend the SkinGuardSensitive from Gillette and the associated blades; for heavy beard growth and rather insensitive skin, the Wilkinson Sword Quattro razor blades are our undisputed favorites.
You should change your razor blades regularly. Even if it costs a lot of money, dull blades do not do your skin any favors, and you’ll end up with razor burns and ingrown hairs.
