Schick Shaped Up Beards to Look Like Animals

Let's talk about beards this time! It might sound boring for some but, still, there's something into it than just hairs ;-)

By definition, a beard is the collection of hair that grows on the chin, upper lip, cheeks and neck of human beings and some non-human animals. Yes, you might have overlooked it at times; animals do grow beards of their own.

Though in humans, usually only pubescent or adult males are able to grow beards. However, women with hirsutism, a hormonal condition of excessive hairiness, may develop a beard. Ouch, might be embarrassing for some, no offense ;-) When differentiating between upper and lower facial hair, a beard specifically excludes the moustache.

Societal attitudes towards male beards have varied wildly throughout the course of history, depending on factors such as prevailing cultural-religious traditions and the current era's fashion trends. Some religions (such as Islam and Sikhism) have always considered a full beard to be absolutely essential for all males able to grow one, and mandate it as part of their official dogma. Other cultures view a beard as central to a man's virility, exemplifying such virtues as wisdom, strength, sexual prowess and high social status. However, in cultures where facial hair is uncommon beards may be associated by some with poor hygiene or a "savage", uncivilized, or even dangerous demeanor.

During puberty, the beard develops. Beard growth is linked to stimulation of hair follicles in the area by dihydrotestosterone, which continues to affect beard growth after puberty. Hair follicles from different areas vary in what hormones they are stimulated or inhibited by; dihydrotestosterone also promotes balding. Dihydrotestosterone is produced from testosterone, the levels of which vary with season; thus beards grow faster in summer. Difficulties in measuring beard growth have led to controversies concerning the effects of hormonal activity on short-term pogonotrophy (i.e., the grooming of facial hair). For example, a physicist had to spend periods of several weeks on a remote island in comparative isolation. He noticed that his beard growth diminished, but the day before he was due to leave the island it increased again, to reach unusually high rates during the first day or two on the mainland. He studied the effect and concluded that the stimulus for increased beard growth was related to the resumption of sexual activity. However, at that time professional pogonologists reacted vigorously and almost dismissively.

Enough of that, let’s talk about power shall we?

The highest ranking Ancient Egyptians grew hair on their chins which was often dyed or hennaed (reddish brown) and sometimes plaited with interwoven gold thread. A metal false beard, or postiche, which was a sign of sovereignty, was worn by queens and kings. This was held in place by a ribbon tied over the head and attached to a gold chin strap, a fashion existing from about 3000 to 1580 BC.

Mesopotamian civilizations (Sumerian, Assyrians, Babylonians, Chaldeans and Medians) devoted great care to oiling and dressing their beards, using tongs and curling irons to create elaborate ringlets and tiered patterns.

Though during these modern times, you can no longer grow your beard and assume power ;-)

On the other hand, one razor company has come up with a great idea, and you can consider this an art too!

Clearly enough, on the pictures, you can see vividly the designs on those men’s beards. They were all shaped up as animals. This is an ad campaign by razor brand Schick in New Zealand. They’re encouraging men to not let their beards go feral by buying their products.

Quite an idea, and an art don’t you think?

“Some of the worst mistakes in my life were haircuts” ― Jim Morrison

Cheerio!