Richard L.

Bearded since: 2003. I am a dedicated, permanent beard grower.

Comments:
Why did I grow my beard? I'd been growing a short, trimmed beard from 2003 until May of 2013 when I had to shave it off because of a visit to my doctor. He required it. But since July 2013 I have not shaved or trimmed my beard. It's all gray, pretty much. But I love my beard and love facial hair. Always have. I've had a mustache/goatee since the early '90s. Now that I'm a bit older, it's all beard all the time.

How do I feel about my beard? I absolutely love my beard and would feel naked without it. Makes me feel more manly than I've ever felt in my life. I have to say that the longer it gets, the more respect I seem to get out in the public and more guys acknowledge my presence. Since I'm a smaller guy, 5'8'' and 130 pounds, this certainly helps with my ego and gives me more confidence about self.