23 years old and still hasn’t grown a beard

Not growing a beard at the age of 23 may be a normal physiological difference, or it may be related to hormone levels, genetic factors or diseases. Male beard growth is affected by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, and there are differences in individual development times. If it is accompanied by delayed development of other secondary sexual characteristics, you need to seek medical attention.

1. Genetic factors

There is a familial tendency to the density and timing of beard growth. If there is late beard growth in immediate family members, it may be a normal physiological delay. Preliminary judgment can be made by observing the developmental history of male relatives such as father and grandfather, and usually no special intervention is required.

2. Insufficient hormone levels

Insufficient testosterone secretion or low 5α-reductase activity can affect beard growth. This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as sparse body hair, a high-pitched voice, and low muscle mass. It is recommended to test six items of sex hormones. If androgen deficiency is diagnosed, you can use testosterone undecanoate capsules and other drugs to supplement as prescribed by your doctor.

3. Malnutrition

Long-term lack of zinc, vitamin D and other nutrients may delay hair follicle development. You can add an appropriate amount of zinc-rich foods such as oysters, beef, nuts, etc. to your daily diet, and use the sun to promote vitamin D synthesis. People with severe malnutrition need to supplement zinc gluconate oral solution and other preparations under the guidance of a doctor.

4. Impact of chronic diseases

Endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism and pituitary dysfunction can lead to systemic metabolic disorders. This type of situation is usually accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and abnormal weight changes. It needs to be diagnosed through thyroid function tests and standardized treatment with levothyroxine sodium tablets and other drugs.

5. Abnormal hair follicle receptors

Rarely, reduced sensitivity of hair follicles to androgens can lead to localized beard failure. The status of the hair follicles can be observed through a dermoscope. If necessary, minoxidil liniment can be used for local stimulation, but it must be used under the guidance of a professional physician.

It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and a regular schedule to avoid excessive anxiety. You can properly massage your face every day to promote blood circulation. If there is still no beard growth after the age of 25 or is accompanied by the loss of other secondary sex characteristics, you should promptly go to an endocrinology department or andrology department to complete hormone level testing, chromosome analysis and other examinations to rule out diseases such as Klinefelter syndrome. Avoid using hormonal drugs on your own to avoid interfering with normal endocrine function.