If you are in the dating game, chances are you are constantly looking for ways to become more attractive to women. Fortunately, there have been some studies on the grooming of men and how attractive it is for women. A new study conducted in Australia shows that women are actually more attracted to men who have a heavy stubble and less attracted to those who are clean-shaven or have a full beard.
The study was held at the University of New South Wales and consisted of 351 female participants. Each of the participants was presented with 10 pictures of men who were either clean-shaven, had a light stubble, a heavy stubble, or a full beard. The women were then asked to rate each picture for attractiveness. The conclusion? The pictures of men who had a heavy stubble were a clear winner.
Women’s Preferences for Different Styles of Facial Hair
Facial hair styles such as goatees, sideburns, and mustaches can also influence how women perceive men. While the study focused on stubble and beards, anecdotal evidence and smaller surveys suggest that well-groomed styles like goatees and subtle sideburns can add to a man's appeal. It ultimately depends on personal grooming and matching the style to one's face shape and personality. For instance:
- Sideburns that complement a haircut can create a bold yet refined look.
- Goatees often exude a confident and artistic vibe.
A YouGov survey in 2022 further explored this, finding that 62% of women consider facial hair, including styles like stubble and mustaches, to be a sign of maturity and confidence. However, poorly maintained facial hair was a dealbreaker for many, with 43% of participants stating they preferred no facial hair over an unkempt appearance. Source.
Why Women Love Heavy Stubbles
The study also made some other unique discoveries. It was found that men who had thick beards were considered better fathers who could take care of and invest in offspring. While this factor may sound weird, maybe it’s not so terrible after all because all a guy needs to do to attract a gorgeous woman is grow out a heavy stubble. If women find thick beards as an indicator of good parenting skills, then why not jump on the opportunity?
Researchers Barnaby J. Dixson and Rob. C Brooks shared their theories on the results of this study. They believe that women find men with heavy stubbles more attractive because they seem more masculine and also more dominant and aggressive. These are important qualities that women look for in men, and apparently, it all comes down to the beard. So in conclusion, women love to see some facial hair, but they don’t want it to cover their entire face or make them look unkempt.
Do Women Like Goatees and Sideburns?
Beyond stubble and beards, the popularity of specific styles like goatees and sideburns depends on trends and individual preferences. For example:
- Goatees are often associated with creativity and confidence, especially in older men.
- Sideburns can evoke a vintage or edgy look, but only when groomed properly.
In online polls and social media discussions, women frequently mention that goatees work well on men who can’t grow a full beard but still want to maintain a rugged, stylish appearance. However, poorly groomed sideburns or exaggerated goatee styles can have the opposite effect, giving an unkempt vibe that turns women off.
Why Long Beards Can Be a Turn-Off
The study showed that as much as women liked heavy stubbles, they hated long beards. Obviously, women are considering how long beards can come in the way of a make-out session. The more hair a man has, the more possibility of getting it in your mouth.
While long beards can make a bold statement, they may not always resonate with women looking for a polished, modern appearance. Practical concerns such as hygiene and texture often play a role.
The Impact of Mustaches: A Divisive Style
Mustaches are another polarizing topic. Some women find them charming, especially in styles that complement a man’s overall grooming. However, they can be seen as dated or overly retro by others. A 2023 survey by Statista found that 48% of women in the 25–40 age group said they found mustaches appealing when paired with stubble or light facial hair. Source.
Practical Tips for Facial Hair Success
- Experiment with Styles: Whether it’s a goatee, heavy stubble, or subtle sideburns, try different styles to find what works best for your face shape and personality.
- Prioritize Grooming: No matter the style, maintenance is key. Invest in quality grooming tools like trimmers and beard oils to keep your look sharp.
- Adapt to Feedback: Pay attention to what works well with women you meet and adjust accordingly. Trends and preferences vary, but confidence in your style can make all the difference.