Stubble is considered the most attractive facial hair style - but moustaches are the biggest turn-off, according to a study.

A poll, of 2,000 adults who are attracted to men, found 55% considered stubble, which actor Chris Hemsworth has been seen rocking, to be the sexiest facial hair option, well ahead of the short beard (24%) and hipster beard (eight%).

The moustache - which Brad Pitt has sported - was only considered alluring by 3%, behind the goatee - sported by Leonardo Di Caprio - (seven%) and chin strap (four%).

It comes after a separate survey of 994 men found having a fresh shave or beard trim makes them feel sharp (55%) and as well as more manly (34%).

First impressions make all the difference, according to scientist and expert in facial perception, Professor Tim Andrews, who is working with Wilkinson Sword, which commissioned the study.

His research revealed it can take less than 10 seconds for appearance to be instinctively judged when meeting someone new in person.

He said: “It’s human nature to judge others by their facial appearance and make quick assumptions about their personality, even if these assumptions aren’t always accurate.

“Just like women use makeup to enhance their features, men can use facial hair to influence their attractiveness and personality perceptions. Understanding these insights can help men optimise their dating performance."

The study revealed stubble was most associated with being ‘outgoing’, short beards as ‘intelligent’, while men with moustaches and goatees should watch out - as both scored highly for ‘arrogance’.

According to men, the clean-shaven approach is worn most, followed by stubble, short beard, moustache, and goatee while the long ‘hipster’ beard and chinstrap styles were least common.

A fifth feel they receive more compliments after a shave or beard trim, with 43% always tidying up or shaving before a date. Clean shaven men were viewed as ‘reliable’, while long beards were most associated with being ‘lazy’.

But when it comes to new styles, most men play it safe, as a quarter worry a new look won’t suit them. Nearly a quarter (24%) can't grow a full beard, and 47% would ignore suggestions from others to change their style.

However, 30% admitted their dating profile picture doesn’t reflect their current facial hair style. Euan Condron, of Wilkinson Sword, added: “It’s been interesting to uncover the impact of facial hair when it comes to what people like and how they feel.

“Those who are attracted to men aren’t exclusive in their love of the stubbly or clean-shaven guy, but the findings did show a clear preference. And men definitely enjoy the feeling of being well-groomed themselves, according to the study.

“Whatever style men choose to wear, it’s important to keep it looking sharp as our research shows that first impressions make a massive difference.”