Facial hair density varies significantly among different populations worldwide. The relative scarcity of substantial beard growth among many Indigenous peoples of the Americas has been a topic of interest and speculation for centuries. It’s important to understand that this observation refers to a general tendency rather than a universal absence, as some individuals within these populations do exhibit beard growth.
Genetic factors play a primary role in determining hair follicle density and the characteristics of hair growth. Certain genetic variants, particularly those affecting the androgen receptor and related hormonal pathways, are known to influence beard development. Over generations, the prevalence of specific genetic markers within a population can lead to observable differences in physical traits, including facial hair. Environmental adaptation and selective pressures may also have contributed to these genetic variations over long periods.
