4 Transman Beard Growth Tips: FTM Beard Advice

Transitioning and want a thicker beard? Pre-T and researching? No hormones but want to grow your facial hair thicker? As a person who googled "Transman Beard Growth" before myself, I've got some helpful tips that could help you bring in that thicker facial hair look.

Often having a thicker beard is a sought-after feature for those looking to pass better in public. While I remember that stage vividly, please remember to prioritize how YOU feel about your beard. Does it make you feel confident? Do you love it? Are you pumped to take care of it? I am too!

Whether you're just starting testosterone or dreaming of the day you can, many trans* individuals wonder what they might look like with facial hair. There are many myths surrounding FTM facial hair like, "If you shave more often, it'll grow faster" or "You have to be on testosterone to grow a beard". Today, we're going to take on these questions and more to help you know what you can do. Whether you are not taking hormones or years on HRT let's dive into how to enhance your peach fuzz.

1. Is HRT Required?

Although being on testosterone will induce a second puberty that stimulates FTM facial hair, it's not required. If you happen to be on HRT, you will find your peach fuzz starts to get darker. You might even grow in new places throughout your chin, cheeks, upper lip, and neck. Some trans* individuals choose to use minoxidil as a stimulant to promote even more FTM facial hair. It's important to do your research on these types of products to make sure you're aware of any side effects and proper instructions for usage.

There are different products like minoxidil that improve hair density and promote new hair growth. A quick YouTube search will supply you with all the testimonials you'll need on how minoxidil affected their beard growth.

2. Shave Or Not To Shave

Ahh. The biggest question of all: "Will shaving help your beard grow faster?" This has got to be the most common myth there is when trying to grow your facial hair out. Unfortunately, in my experience no it won't. When I was in my first few months of HRT I was so excited to have some facial hair to play around with. I immediately went and bought a trimmer just so I could see what it felt like and try to get mine to grow faster. Although I'm glad I did so I could experiment with my newly found stubble, it wasn't a good idea to try to get my beard to grow faster.

As frustrating as it can be, the best way to extend that stubble is to leave it be. It will be hard to leave it alone because it feels like a brand-new toy you can't play with when you first start testosterone hormone replacement therapy but TRUST it'll help in the long run. Sometimes it can get dry and itchy and that's where beard butter/oils come in. The oil conditions and protects hair follicles to remove knots, and prevent ingrown hairs, itching, split ends, and dandruff. It'll help soften your facial hair, and add body/shine as well as moisture to the skin beneath. Trust me, you're beard and sanity will thank you.

3.Genetics & FTM Facial Hair

Look around your immediate family. Does your brother have facial hair? Does your mom wax her upper lip often? Does your father have a beard? These kinds of signs will give you information to support what your new whiskers may look like. Your genetics will play a part in what your end result will look like when growing out your stubble. Some cis-gender men can't grow beards simply because they don't have that card in their genes.

4.But HOW To Improve My Transman Beard Growth?

Scruff or thick beards can all benefit from the same techniques if you’re going for a thicker look. Beard growth products like Minoxidil are often over the counter. Keep the skin healthy with beard oils, and balms or jojoba oil products. Try a derma-roller where you stimulate the follicles for more growth. Many transmen also dye or fill in their beard for a darker appearance.

When it's all said and done, it isn't easy to have the patience it takes to focus on your transman beard growth. I’ve been on T for 7 years and my beard is still filling in different spots!! What I do have, I credit to genes, and resisting the temptation to shave it all off. Try not to compare your beards with other people's results - as hard as that may be.

We are all on our own path. There's only one of you. Be proud of the journey you are taking to become your authentic self. That’s the *real* secret sauce to the best beard.

Ps. Here are some additional resources for you to reach out if you’re in need:

Transgender people in crisis should contact the following resources: 

• The Trevor Project‘s 24/7/365 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386) or TrevorChat, their online instant messaging option, or TrevorText, a text-based support option. If you are looking for peer support, you can visit TrevorSpace from anywhere in the world.

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255)

• Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860

About the Author: Aaron Capener

Hey new friend! I’m a transgender content creator and media business owner in a small town in Tennessee. I feel especially called to share my experiences to help other people learn how to also live their lives as their most authentic selves. I’ve been on testosterone since 2017, had top surgery in 2023 and have been using these experiences to share guidance with those in need around me. Married, and now a father, I’m so thankful to have made it to the place in my life I thought was impossible to reach. And now I’m ready to help others achieve the same happiness that everyone is worthy of.