The beards have long attracted suspicion, sometimes considered elegant, sometimes as unhealthy. But how are they dirty, really?
Human skin is home to billions of microorganisms – mainly bacteria, but also fungi and virus – And facial hair provides a unique environment to prosper them.
Research shows that the beard, in particular, supports a dense and diversified microbial population, which has fueled a persistent belief that they are intrinsically non -hygienic. The Washington Post recently reported that some toilets contain fewer germs than the average beard.
But are the beards really a risk of hygiene? A more in -depth examination of evidence reveals a nuanced image.
The microbial population on the skin varies according to the location and is influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, humidity and the availability of nutrients. Beards create a warm and often humid environment where food debris and oils can accumulate – ideal conditions for microbial growth.
These microbes thrive not only because of the hot and humid conditions that beards provide, but also due to constant exposure to new contaminants and microbes, especially from hands that frequently affect surfaces and face.
The concerns among scientists concerning the hygiene of the beard go up over 50 years. Early studies have shown that facial hair could keep bacteria and bacterial toxins even after washing. This led to the lasting idea that beards act as bacterial tanks and could present a risk of infection for others.
For health workers, this has made the beard a controversy point, especially in hospitals where the transmission of pathogens is a concern. However, hospital base research has shown mixed results. A study found that bearded health workers had higher bacterial charges on their faces than clean colleagues.
Another investigationlooking at it would be hygienic to assess dogs and humans in the same MRI The scanner found that most of the men’s beards contained many more microbes than dog fur, including a greater presence of harmful bacteria. Researchers have concluded: “Dogs do not risk humans if they use the same MRI.”
However, other studies have challenged the idea that beards increase the risk of infection. For example, an investigation found No significant difference In bacterial colonization between bearded and clean healthy health workers.
The same study also said that bearded doctors were less likely to transport Staphylococcus aureusA major cause of hospital infections, and that there has been no increase in infection rates in patients treated with bearded surgeons wearing surgical masks.
The beards can sometimes Spread the skin infectionssuch as impetigo – a contagious rash often caused by S. Aureus, which is commonly found in facial hair.
In rare cases, parasites like pubic lice – which generally live in the region of the groin – can also present In the beard, eyebrows or eyelashes, especially in case of poor hygiene or close contact with an infected person.
The case of good beard hygiene
The neglected beards can promote irritation, inflammation and infection. The skin under a beard – rich in blood vessels, nerve endings and immune cells – is very sensitive to microbial and environmental stressors. When sebum, dead skin, food debris and pollutants accumulate, they can irritate the skin and provide fuel to fungal and bacterial growth.
Experts highly recommend Wash your beard and your face every day. This eliminates dirt, oils, allergens and dead skin, helping to prevent microbial accumulation.
Dermatologists too advise Moisturizing to avoid drought, the use of a beard comb to remove debris and cut to control cowardly hair and reduce loss. These steps help maintain not only hygiene but also the health and appearance of the beard.
So, are the beards dirty? Like most things, it depends on how you care about them. With daily hygiene and appropriate grooming, beards have little risk and can even be healthier than we used to think.
Free PurmosisLecturer in clinical microbiology, University of Leicester
This article is republished from The conversation Under a creative communs license. Read it original article.