A Man’s Beard Is Meant To Protect Him From A Punch? Studies Say Yes!

Most people love a good beard, but they are not just for looks.

Beards protect men from sun damage, protect their necks and save them time when they are not shaving.

Studies show that beards have evolved to protect men from a punch?

Research shows that flowing facial hair might have evolved to help fight-hungry humans better absorb blows to the head, according to a new study published in the journal Integrative Organismal Biology. The findings are the culmination of several research projects by the same team on human resilience, including experiments on the ability of the human face to take a punch.

No humans were hurt during research. The team employed an epoxy composite skull covered in several styles of sheep skin — plucked, trimmed, and full-on mutton chops (so to speak). To replicate a punch, they then dropped a weight on the chin, and measured the force via load cell.

Researchers concluded that the beard may function similarly to the mane of a lion or a baboon, “serving to protect vital areas like the throat and jaw from lethal attacks” during a fight. Especially as it sprouts on one of the most vulnerable regions of the body — the chin.

For more information, check out the New York Post's article.