YOU CAN’T SWING a cat without hitting a man with a beard.

Anyone who frequents Irish pubs can attest to this.

But what do the fairer sex make of it? Well, opinion is divided.

Now research suggests that facial hair may actually be bad news for lads looking for matches on Tinder.

According to a survey conducted by completely unbiased source Gillette, well-groomed lads get 37% more matches than their bearded contemporaries.

Shave Test Shave Test

Similarly, 90% of women apparently agree that well-groomed men are more attractive. (That figure seems extraordinarily high, but we can’t argue with science.)

Additionally, shaving can help men experience a 19% increase in right swipes.

Shave Test Shave Test

The brand also asked women to declare their least favourite type of facial hair and apparently received a resounding “No!” to all of the below.

Shave Test Shave Test

Given that Gillette is literally in the business of selling razors, these results are probably best taken with a shovel of salt.

But it does beg the question:

Women and men of Ireland: do you like facial hair?

12 best nuggets from the New York Times interview with the Lisdoonvarna matchmaker >

7 of the all-time best Irish TV weather moments >