Beards are back, bigger and better than ever! But can a little facial foliage actually make you healthier?
Maybe so, suggests a study conducted at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. The researchers found that clean-shaven men were three to four times more likely to have methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on their faces. Shaving creates tiny abrasions that can provide a home for harmful bacteria.
Watch: World Record for Bearded Woman!
Breast Surgeon Dr. Kristi Funk notes her practice has switched from razors to clippers when removing body hair before surgery, to cut down on infections. “Criminal Minds” star AJ Cook chimes in – her husband has a beard, and she feels “It’s almost like an antibiotic! Like a protectant around his face.”
ER Physician Dr. Travis Stork wants to know, “Do you like the beard when you’re smooching?”
“When you’re past the stubble phase, it’s quite lovely,” she confides.
Dr. Stork himself likes to grow a beard over the summer, when The Doctors isn’t filming. His takeaway? Au naturel may be the healthiest way!
