In the last five years, beards have become the dominant trend among young men. All you have to do is walk through any city in the Western world and you're more likely to spot a beard than a clean-shaven face.
As more men attempt to grow their beard fluff out, beards have become the go-to joke and an instant indication of whether or not a man's worth your time:
Goodnight to all the sexy men with beards you are appreciated.
— Maritza (@Alma_Marissa) November 8, 2018
Why all bald headed men with beards look the same LMAO
— ? (@thisismytweeder) November 11, 2018
There are men walking around with no beards in 2018
— Phisa (@Khal_Nikta) November 6, 2018
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Now, according to a study in the Journal of Evolutionary Biology, scientists have discovered that women rate men higher on the boyfriend potential scale if they have a beard.
8,520 women were shown a collection of photographs and were asked to determine whether or not they preferred men with or without facial hair.
Men were photographed clean-shaven, five days after shaving, days after shaving and four weeks after shaving.
On a scale of attractiveness, heavy stubble was rated as the most attractive, followed by full beards and light stubble.
Researchers said beards took precedent over a strong jawline, high testosterone levels, and health when women are looking for a partner.
The study states beards could indicate a long-term relationship and a man's ability to compete with other males for resources.
Whatever the case may be, looks like beards are here to stay.