Facial hair has a lot more to say than just a style statement—according to a new study, potential dates are making snap judgments based on what’s on your chin. Forget astrology; it turns out your beard or lack of it might play a bigger role in your love life than you’d think. So, what do various facial hair styles really mean to people swiping through dating apps?
Judging at First Glance
We’ve all been told not to judge a book by its cover, but let’s be real—online dating is all about first impressions. Studies show that users decide to swipe left (reject) in just two seconds, while swiping right (liking) takes a whopping six seconds. In the fast-paced world of online dating, first impressions are everything, and your profile photo is often all people have to go on.
Dating apps like Bumble even require women to make the first move after a match, meaning your profile picture needs to grab attention in a split second. If your photo isn’t up to snuff, you might get passed over before you even get a chance to show off your charm.
The reality? Online dating is a bit of a “hyper dating” experience. With endless options to swipe through, people make decisions based almost entirely on looks. And that’s where your facial hair comes in. Your stubble, beard, or lack of it could be the key to your success.
The Study: What Facial Hair Says About You
A study by shaving expert Wilkinson Sword and the app Thursday looked at what people actually think about facial hair styles. Over 2,000 UK adults were asked about their preferences on facial hair, along with the personality traits they associate with each style. The results? Pretty fascinating.
Here’s the scoop:
- Stubble: Stubble was the most popular style, with respondents linking it to confidence and emotional intelligence. A little scruff can go a long way, especially for those seeking something long-term. It’s seen as stylish and approachable.
- Short Beard: Short beards were seen as sophisticated and stylish. However, they also have a dominant vibe, signaling that the wearer knows what they want.
- Long Beards: While hipsters might rock the full beard, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Only 5% of people found long beards attractive, and they were often associated with laziness unless they were well-maintained. A beard can be a powerful statement, but it needs to be kept tidy to avoid the dreaded “lazy” label.
- Goatee: Goatees came in next, with just 7% of people finding them attractive. They were seen as a little too arrogant for most, though some linked them to being outgoing.
- Moustache: Moustaches were the most divisive—people either loved or hated them. While a certain swagger is required to pull one off, they were often linked to arrogance, with just 3% finding them attractive.
- Chinstrap: Chin straps are bold and edgy but not the go-to for most daters. They’re mostly seen in the friend zone, though they’re more attractive to the LGBTQ+ community than to straight women.
What’s the Takeaway?
Facial hair can say a lot about you, whether you’re aware of it or not. Here’s how different styles stack up:
- Clean-shaven: Seen as reliable, intelligent, and the safest bet for a steady relationship. If you’re after something long-term, this is your look.
- Stubble: Suave and approachable, stubble says you’re outgoing and trustworthy. It’s a solid choice for both casual and committed relationships.
- Short Beard: Stylish and sophisticated, short beards signal dominance and intelligence, making them perfect for situationships or long-term connections.
- Long Beard: If you’re going for a hipster vibe, be prepared for mixed opinions. Long beards need upkeep to avoid the “lazy” label.
- Goatee: Often associated with arrogance, goatees may not be the best choice for finding your soulmate.
- Moustache: You need a lot of confidence to pull off a moustache. They’re often linked to arrogance but can work for those with a bold personality.
- Chinstrap: Chin straps might give off a maverick vibe, but they’re usually relegated to the friend zone, except for certain niche groups.
Facial Hair and Relationship Goals
Your facial hair style might even influence what kind of relationship you’re likely to find. For example, clean-shaven men are more likely to be seen as long-term material, while stubbled chins are a good middle ground, attracting both serious and casual daters.
Keep It Real
The study also emphasized the importance of authenticity. A surprising number of people—40%—prefer to see what lies beneath the facial hair. Transparency is key, so don’t surprise your date by showing up with a radically different look. If your profile pic shows you with a full beard, make sure that’s how you show up to the date, or risk ruining the connection before it even starts.
In the end, don’t let this study box you in. Whether you’re a clean-shaven guy or a bearded maverick, what matters most is how you rock your look and how well you maintain it. But if you’re looking to maximize your dating potential, a bit of grooming and honesty could help make your profile more appealing.
Facial Hair Style Guide:
- Clean-Shaven: The Dependable Guy – Great for long-term relationships.
- Stubble: The Suave Catch – Attractive and trustworthy, suitable for various relationship types.
- Short Beard: Stylish Sophistication – Reliable and intelligent, works for both casual and serious connections.
- Long Beard: The Hipster’s Dilemma – Can be attractive if well-maintained, but often associated with laziness.
- Goatee: Not for Everyone – Seen as arrogant by many, but can signal outgoing personality.
- Moustache: Manly yet Misunderstood – A bold choice but often linked to arrogance.
- Chinstrap: The Bold Maverick – Edgy and outgoing, but often relegated to the friend zone.
No matter what facial hair style you prefer, the key is to keep it well-groomed and true to your personality. Be yourself and rock your look with confidence!