The information we’re about to share with you will raise so many questions but remember no matter how you feel after reading this, love your dogs and bearded brethren unconditionally.

On to the topic at hand. Researchers in Switzerland set out to learn whether humans could catch dog-borne diseases if they were exposed to MRI machines used by veterinarians. Samples were taken from only 18 men and 30 dogs, but things did not bode well for the guys.

High amounts of bacteria specimens were found on each and every one of the men’s beards and the counts were similar on only 23 of the dogs. Swabs were taken from the dogs’ fur (not beards) to compare with the men’s and the professor behind the study, Dr. Andreas Gutzeit, stated:

“The researchers found a significantly higher bacterial load in specimens taken from the men’s beards compared with the dogs’ fur. On the basis of these findings, dogs can be considered as clean compared with bearded men.”

Participants in the Swiss study ranged in age from 18 to 76, and researchers at the Hirslanden Clinic found that seven of the men were at risk of getting sick from the amount and type of bacteria in their hairs. All of this was discovered accidentally.

Gutzeit made a broad statement on beard cleanliness, but it is not the first time that facial hair hygiene has made headlines. In 2018, a university study commissioned by Fragrance Direct asserted that 47% of dudes with beards have fecal matter in them. Yikes!

Stats weren’t shared on how many men participated in the study, their ages, or everyday habits, but the other tidbit listed in the study said that varying lengths of beards were swabbed. The source of the matter (fecal, that is)?

Not washing hands after using the bathroom. Apparently, some guys go number two in the loo, skip the sink, and rub their whiskers with dirty-handed savoir faire. That sirs, is not the move.

We realize these test results may be – okay are – a bit skewed, but they still highlight the fact that proper beard care is a must. Food, saliva, bugs, and whoknowswhat can crash a beard party at any given moment. If you’re not already shampooing your hairs regularly, at least use a beard oil in between regular washings to keep it healthy and itch-free.

These days, you can find beard kits that come with shampoo, conditioner, balm, oil, and a bevy of other goodies to keep things clean and nicely scented. Brushing and trimming can not only reduce straggly hairs, but also clingy germs. Of course, one could always shave, freaking out children and loved ones who are not used to it.

We do wonder which bacteria were found on these test subjects and if they were only detected after they spent time in the MRI chamber, but that is unclear. To hear more about the study and the icky bacteria found in these beards, watch the video below.

What do you think of this study? Do you prefer beards to bare skin? What’s the hygiene routine for your beard (or your significant other’s)?

Source:

BBC