Whether it’s from leading male celebrities such as Hugh Jackman, George Clooney or David Beckham with their ever-changing, full beards and goatees causing beard envy; or the fact that  men say having a beard makes them feel more macho, the trend in facial hair transplants as a cure for baldness is all the rage now. According to the physicians at the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery more than 4,500 beard transplants were carried out within the UK in their 2013 census – and the number has only risen from there as men take more notice of the procedure. In some cultures such as those in the Middle East, thick facial hair is directly linked to masculinity; and in some religious communities, having a beard is a way to strengthen their connection to their beliefs. Regardless of the reasoning behind a man’s desire for a thicker beard, he can get exactly what he wants – if he’s willing to pay for it!

An alternative for men who cannot grow a beard naturally

A large number of men say they are unable to grow

a full beard and sideburns, or that their natural facial hair grows fine in some areas, but has patches or does not connect where they want it. Many men agree that having a full beard improves their self-image and confidence. The cost of a transplant surgery, such as a FUE hair transplant, can range anywhere from £4,000 to £9,000 depending on the size of restoration needed. The cost depends on how many hairs are transplanted as each follicle is individually harvested from another part of the body, usually the back of the head, and transplanted onto the face. The average number of follicles used can range from 500 to a few thousand, and the procedure itself can take anywhere from 2 to 5 hours. It’s done under local anaesthetic in an out-patient setting and multiple visits are rarely needed to achieve the look you desire.

But is it worth it?

That question can only be answered by the man considering the procedure. A beard may be the perfect way to boost his own self-image and could be worth every bit of the cost, but how do others view a bearded man? A study done by the scientific journal Evolution & Human Behaviour found that women were more attracted to bearded men over those who were clean shaven. The University of Southern Queensland published results showing proof that beards blocked 90% of harmful UV rays helping to prevent the risk of skin cancers. So it turns out, this simple but costly procedure not only increases self-esteem, but it attracts women and protects your skin too!