The Health Risks of Not Shaving Regularly for Men
Recent studies have highlighted a troubling connection between infrequent shaving and several health issues in men. Specifically, individuals who do not shave regularly may face higher risks of diseases, increased mortality rates, and a decrease in sexual pleasure. A noteworthy study conducted by a research team at the University of Bristol followed 2,438 middle-aged men in Wales over a period of 20 years to explore the associations between shaving habits and health outcomes.
The Study Findings: Mortality and Health Concerns
The findings from this extensive research revealed that men who did not shave every day experienced a significantly higher death rate. In total, 835 participants in the study passed away, with 45% of the irregular shavers succumbing to various health issues, compared to only 31% of those who shaved daily. While it was noted that lifestyle choices, such as smoking and general health habits, contributed to these outcomes, the data also suggested a worrying correlation between infrequent shaving and strokes.
Understanding the Association with Stroke Risk
Interestingly, the study found that men who did not shave daily had a 70% higher chance of experiencing a stroke compared to their more diligent counterparts. The researchers pointed out that many of these men were unmarried and largely represented the blue-collar workforce. These individuals not only tended to have lower instances of sexual climax but also exhibited various health problems, such as angina and generally poorer health.
Hormonal Influences on Health and Shaving Frequency
A professor from the department of social medicine commented that the high mortality rate among non-shavers could be a mix of factors including smoking and societal issues, as well as hormonal influences. Lower testosterone levels, which can impact sexual health, might be another factor, contributing to the reduced frequency of sexual climax among these men. This hormonal discrepancy could also explain the different health outcomes related to arteriosclerosis observed in the study.
The Psychological Aspect of Grooming
According to Dr. Powell, a sexual health consultant from Connecticut, men's shaving habits often reflect their overall personal grooming standards. Men who infrequently shave may show signs of neglect in personal care, which correlates with lower sexual satisfaction. Conversely, those who take care of their appearance, including regular shaving, are likely to enjoy healthier sexual lives and relationships.
The Ideal Time to Shave for Optimal Health Benefits
When it comes to shaving, timing plays a crucial role. Experts recommend waiting for about 20 minutes after waking up to shave, as this allows for a decrease in hormone levels that could cause faster hair growth. To shave correctly, men should begin by cleansing their face with a neutral soap, follow up with a warm towel to soften the facial hair, and then apply a shaving cream.
Concluding Thoughts
In summary, the University of Bristol's research reveals significant health implications associated with men's shaving habits. Frequent shaving not only promotes better hygiene but may also correlate with improved health outcomes and higher quality of life. Therefore, men should consider their grooming practices as part of their overall health maintenance strategy.