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Can a 17-Year-Old Grow Facial Hair?

Published in Facial Hair Development 3 mins read

Yes, a 17-year-old can grow facial hair. However, the extent of growth varies significantly.

Facial Hair Growth at 17: What to Expect

While some 17-year-olds can grow a full beard, many others will only have some patchy growth or a mustache. The onset of puberty, typically between 11 and 12 years old, marks the beginning of facial hair development. By 16-17, hair growth usually spreads across the entire upper lip [1, 5]. Growth may also begin on the sideburns and below the lower lip around this age [1, 5].

It's important to remember that puberty's end is variable, typically between 18 and 25 [2]. This means that even if facial hair growth is minimal at 17, it may still develop further in later years. Genetics plays a crucial role; some individuals simply have a later onset of thicker beard growth [2].

Factors Influencing Facial Hair Growth

Several factors influence the amount and thickness of facial hair at age 17:

  • Genetics: Family history strongly predicts facial hair growth patterns.
  • Hormones: Testosterone levels are key; higher levels usually lead to more significant growth.
  • Ethnicity: Certain ethnicities tend to have different facial hair growth patterns.
  • Overall Health: Nutritional status and health conditions can impact hair growth.

Is it Normal to Have Limited Facial Hair at 17?

Yes, it's perfectly normal to have limited or patchy facial hair at 17. Many teenagers experience this, and it doesn't necessarily indicate any underlying health issue [2, 7, 8]. Patience is key; further development is often seen later in adolescence and into adulthood [7, 8].

The Reddit community, r/BeardTalk [3], highlights this common experience, noting that a full beard at 17 is not the norm for all individuals.

Conclusion

While some 17-year-olds can sport a full beard, others may have only minimal growth. The extent of growth is influenced by genetics, hormones, ethnicity, and overall health. Therefore, the presence or absence of a full beard at age 17 is perfectly normal.

References:

[1] A Guide for Younger Patients: Stages of Beard Growth - Nashville Hair Doctor. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[2] If I'm 17 years old, and still haven't grown a beard related facial hair ... Quora. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[3] Any helpful advice for a 17 year old trying to grow a beard? : r/BeardTalk. Reddit. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[4] Should i shave my moustache? 17 year old here. Sorry if i look ugly ... Reddit. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[5] I am 17 and shave every 2 to 3 days. How do I grow a beard quickly ... Quora. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[6] I'm 17, should I grow a beard? - Quora. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[7] Delayed Puberty (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[8] I'm 17 year old but don't have beard, is it normal? - Quora. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[9] Delayed Puberty Signs & Treatment (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealth. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

[10] As a 17 year old, how can I grow a beard quicker? - Quora. (Accessed on [Date Accessed])

Note: Replace "[Date Accessed]" with the date you accessed the referenced websites.