The doctor talked about the effect of a beard on the skin of the face

A beard is not only a fashion trend, but also an important factor in skin health. It creates a special microenvironment that can bring both benefits and harm. Ekaterina Kashukh, an expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, told Izvestia on September 14 about proper beard care and the facts that you need to know in order to avoid problems.

Firstly, a beard can serve as a mechanical barrier against external influences.: it performs the function of physical protection from ultraviolet radiation, reducing the risk of sunburn and reducing photo-aging of the skin in the chin, cheeks and neck area.

In addition, thick hair protects the face from wind, frost and dust: this is especially important for residents of megacities with high levels of air pollution. The beard also helps to maintain the natural moisture of the skin, preventing it from drying out in the dry air of heated rooms in winter.

"There are potential risks to wearing a beard. The main problem is improper care. The active facial vegetation creates a unique microclimate: a warm and humid environment that becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Staphylococcus aureus and yeast fungi of the genus Malassezia, which can cause seborrheic dermatitis, are especially dangerous in this context," warns Kashukh.

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Food residues, sebum, dead epidermal cells, and dust particles can linger in the hair. If they are not thoroughly washed, it can lead to the development of bacterial infections (folliculitis), irritation, acne and dermatitis. A long and thick beard without proper care can contribute to the exacerbation of rosacea and perioral dermatitis in people with a predisposition to skin diseases.

"There is a myth that a beard can be a breeding ground for infections that are dangerous to others. This is not entirely true. Although microorganisms can indeed develop on the hair, the risk of their transmission is no higher with basic hygiene than with a handshake," says the doctor.

He noted that the effect of a beard on skin health and immunity directly depends on the hygiene habits of its owner. To minimize the risks, it is necessary to clean the beard and the skin under it daily using specialized shampoos and cleansers. In addition, it is important to thoroughly dry and comb your beard to remove any hair that has fallen out. It is recommended to use wooden combs with wide teeth, which injure the skin less.

It is important to remember that the skin under a mustache and sideburns needs the same level of care as under a full beard. These areas are more often in contact with food and hygiene products, so it is recommended to thoroughly rinse them after eating, use special foams or micellar water. For sideburns, it is important to avoid the accumulation of styling products, which can clog pores and lead to the formation of gums.

"If you experience any signs of inflammation, itching, or irritation, you should consult a dermatologist. With proper care, a beard will only please the owner and protect the skin," the expert concludes.

Elizaveta Shukhman, a dermatologist and cosmetologist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia on July 25 that impetigo is caused mainly by staphylococci and streptococci, which can live on the skin, especially in the area of stubble. However, a woman can also suffer from infection — the virus is transmitted through a kiss.

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