“The answer to this question appears to depend mainly on your genetic makeup (i.e., the tendencies for growing facial hair that you were born with) and how long you have been on testosterone therapy. This mirrors the process that non-trans men go through when growing facial hair– it depends on their individual tendencies for growing facial hair, as well as the length of time that has passed since they began growing facial hair during puberty.

Regarding the genetic component, there is considerable variance in both the developmental pace and the quantity that different men are able to grow facial hair. Some men grow thick facial hair in a relatively short period of time after reaching puberty or starting testosterone therapy, while others may never be able to grow a full beard or mustache in their lifetime. Some men grow substantial facial hair only in certain areas (such as the sideburns or chin), but are unable to ever grow a full mustache or grow more than a few hairs on their cheeks. Some may notice patchy or bald areas in an otherwise full beard, or sideburns that never grow in fully. These varying developmental patterns seem to be largely related to inherited traits– though keep in mind that a guy may not be able to accurately predict his own facial hair growth based on that of his male relatives. Just because a man’s dad or brother grows a thick beard or mustache doesn’t necessarily mean that his own facial hair growth will be the same.

Regarding the length of time on testosterone therapy, there will be some variance depending on the individual, but generally facial hair tends to thicken and develop over a period of years rather than over just a few months. This is similar to any man who has gone though puberty–typically, some facial hair begins to develop in the early months of puberty, but it often takes a number of years to begin to grow facial hair in a pattern substantial enough to grow a full beard or a full mustache. Some men begin with only sparse facial hair in their teens and early twenties, but find that their beards have thickened and filled out by their late twenties or early thirties. There are individuals who grow facial hair quickly and densely, but most guys develop over time. For those who have been on testosterone for only a short time, patience is key when trying to grow a beard– it may take several years.”

Products for facial hair removal are effective for safely removing hair on the face, above the lips, and on or around the chin. Likewise, they are equally effective for removing body hair – on or under the arms, legs, back and chest, as well as along the bikini line and around the pubic area. While there are numerous solutions available – waxing, electrolysis, and pulling (ouch), a two-step process is generally recommended for safe and effective results.

A two-step process is not a dance – in so many words. The process refers to the combination of hair removing products or processes necessary to safely and effectively inhibit growth. The first is dissolving or removing of the follicle shaft and slowing or stopping the Anagen growth phase that produces the cortex, shaft and root. The second phase is to retard future development of thick, coarse follicles developed by the root and bulb. In many cases, even the most extreme retardation leaves the root and allows for future growth. Hair inhibitors should be used following removal to prevent mature follicles from appearing. So, the best procedure refers to first removing the hair, then preventing mature, thick hair from forming.

Hair inhibitors also use what are called bio-enzymatic plant extracts to help prevent regrowth. The objective being to give a safe, effective solution – especially when used in sensitive areas on the face, under arms and bikini line – particularly for use on pubic hair near the genitals. Care should be taken to avoid eye, mouth and nose and complete flushing is recommended for adverse reactions, though they are rare. Inhibitors, or retardants, work to prevent mature, thick follicle growth. It is not uncommon for some hair to growth, but it is usually fine, wispy, light-colored hairs that have not developed to maturity. The best products for unwanted facial hair removal protect and nourish the skin, while removing and inhibiting follicle development. A safe, easy and effective two-step process helps remove hair on the face and keeps it from coming back.