29 June 2026 · The Guardian
Are Beards Really Unhygienic?
Research shows beards may not be as dirty as thought. Clean-shaven faces can harbor more bacteria if not washed.
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Narration includes the headline and summary.
Adapted from The Guardian, 22 June 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.
Key vocabulary
hygienic
clean and healthy
“It is important to keep your environment hygienic.”
bacteria
tiny living things that can cause disease
“Bacteria are found on many surfaces.”
perceive
to think of something in a certain way
“People often perceive beards as dirty.”
unwashed
not cleaned
“An unwashed face can have more bacteria.”
research
the study of a subject to discover new information
“Research shows that beards may not be unhygienic.”
Quick quiz
01What did the 1967 study find about bacteria on faces?
02What does John Tregoning say about beards and hygiene?
03What is the general consensus about beards and bacteria?
Discussion
What are your thoughts on the hygiene of facial hair?