The Nivea For Men 'Save It Or Shave It' Report has revealed over three quarters (78%) of women find clean shaven men sexier, and when it comes to getting close, the majority (86%) would prefer to kiss a clean-shaven man.

With men across New Zealand taking up the latest grooming trend of growing unruly, unkempt facial hair - these latest findings might come as a surprise to those who thought it would add to their 'coolness' and 'manly' factor when talking to women.

The report, by Galaxy Research to support the NIVEA FOR MEN 'Shave It Or Save It' Campaign, investigated the habits, reasons and perceptions of men's facial hair across New Zealand.

The bad news for bearded men is that even among women whose partner has a beard, less than half describe bearded men as sexy or masculine and are even less likely to be considered fashionable (15%).

For the single men out there sporting facial hair, only 15% feel it gives them more success with the ladies so perhaps not a good move when looking for a date.

However, those considering trying out the bearded look for themselves, might want to consider that despite the lack of appeal of beards generally, the three day growth is the most acceptable to women (36%).