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Evolution of the Beard (No, Not That One)

beard evolution - deposit photos

Full, luxurious beards are a sight to behold, and they may also serve a practical purpose — softening the impact of a punch to the jaw. Throughout history, flowing beards have been celebrated by cultures around the world as an emblem of social dominance and virility, much like the flowing mane of a dominant male lion. However, the thick hair of a lion’s mane also protects a big cat’s throat against a rival’s lethal claws and teeth, scientists have said. And a dense beard may lend similar protection against deadly attacks by cushioning and absorbing forces directed at the jaw, … Read more