Mark Zuckerberg, the tech mogul known for his clean-cut, youthful appearance, has sent the internet into a frenzy with a recent… facial hair transformation? Well, sort of.
Here’s the lowdown: On April 18th, Zuckerberg posted a video on Instagram announcing a new version of Meta AI. While the AI advancements were the intended focus, it was a digitally altered photo circulating shortly after that stole the show. The photo, featuring Zuckerberg with a full beard and mustache, went viral.
The internet, never one to miss a meme opportunity, quickly embraced “Beard Zuck.” Comments ranged from lighthearted amusement (“Mr. Steal your data” and “I’d zuck him off”) to comparisons with celebrities like Jack Harlow. Even Katy Perry chimed in with a “Rapstar!” on Instagram.
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Arouba Kabir, emotional & mental health professional, and founder of Enso wellness, attempted to explain our seeming to-be never-ending fascination with Zuck’s new fake beard. (especially evident on his post with commenters lamenting why the beard is fake)
“Humans are naturally attracted to novelty and change. People are naturally curious about the lives of celebrities and public figures. Some individuals may even project their own desires or fantasies onto celebrities. They may find Zuckerberg’s new look appealing because it aligns with their own desires for change or self-expression and it’s something they can afford,” Kabir explained.
But, more than Zuck’s original image, it’s the doctored image, which has the Internet proverbially twisting in its sheets. Well, according to Kabir, it is do with his facial hair, as it has been a subject of interest from both psychological and evolutionary perspectives, particularly in men. She broke down why:
Masculinity: Facial hair/beard is often associated with masculinity, as it typically develops during puberty when male hormone levels increase. From an evolutionary standpoint, a beard or facial hair can signal sexual maturity and dominance, which may be attractive to potential mates.
Social Status: In some cultures and historical periods, facial hair has been associated with social status, wisdom, and power. This association can influence perceptions of attractiveness and respect.
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A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck)
Individuality: Facial hair can also be a way for individuals to express their individuality and personal style. People may be attracted to facial hair because it adds character and uniqueness to a person’s appearance.
Biological Attraction: Some research suggests that facial hair may be biologically attractive to both men and women. Studies have found that women may perceive men with facial hair as more masculine, dominant, and socially mature. According to a 2103 study published in Evolution and Human Behavior, women rated men with heavy stubble or full beards as more attractive for long-term relationships compared to clean-shaven men. Beards were also associated with perceptions of masculinity and parenting ability, it noted.
Overall, the attractiveness of facial hair can be influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and cultural factors. While not everyone may find facial hair attractive, its appeal to many people may be rooted in evolutionary history and cultural perceptions.
