Beards are an expression of style and art, as well as an iconic statement. For as long as men have been able to grow facial hair, there have been debates about the ideal length and shape of it. One of the key areas of debate is how low the beard should go on the neck; should it be a tidy shave all around, or could it come down lower?
Many different factors influence the ‘how low should the beard go’ question. From the length of growth possible to the desired look, there are many personal factors that get taken into account. Generally, a beard should be trimmed to neaten it up, with straight lines and a general evenness. This applies anywhere on the face, including the neck, which will normally have a more rounded style as compared to the cheeks and chin.
There are many who argue that the neck beard should go closer to the chin, or even meet the chin if possible. This is because it helps to define the natural shape of the face, and can look neatly styled and professional. On the other hand, there are those who believe that the neck should be left to grow, providing the look of a longer beard that can then be curled over the jawline. This is sometimes seen as a more relaxed look, and can also be traditionally seen on certain religious figures.
The choice on how low the beard should go on the neck is really one of personal preference. Some believe that the style should be one of neatness and establishing the ideal symmetry of the face. Others prefer the look of a longer style and the more relaxed definition it provides to the face.
The key to achieving a good look is to find the right balance – between too little and too much. Keeping the facial hair at a decent length, while maintaining a clean shave is usually the best way to look. This is to be achieved by using a trimmer to keep the shape, as well as cutting away any stragglers that stand out. A regular trim and an eye for balance will help ensure a well groomed look with the ideal length for the beard on the neck.
Australian Perspective
The attitude to men’s facial hair in Australia is changing. Until recently, it has been seen as more normal to remain clean-shaven or to have a short beard on the neck, but now it is acceptable to have a beard down to the neck. The older generation may have reservations about this look, but as long as it is well groomed and taken care of, then it is just another way of expressing personal style.
For Australian men, it is becoming more and more acceptable to leave their beards to grow out and reach the neck; although the perfect length is still open to interpretation and up to personal choice. The key is to remain well-groomed and to maintain the balance between too much beard and too little.
Expert Perspective
A Selection of different barbers and beard-grooming experts have had their say on how low the beard should go on the neck. Some favour a more traditional approach suggesting that beards should only be left to grow to meet the chin, or if left a few millimetres longer should have a nice curved line. Nevertheless, others are of the opinion that it is possible to have it go a bit lower and still look well groomed and presentable. This is down to personal choice and experimentation, so a balance can be struck.
Overall, the experts agree that the key is in keeping the look as neat and trimmed as possible. This means avoiding any stragglers or wild growth that detracts from the overall style. To get the ideal length on the neck, it is important to use a good beard trimmer and promptly remove any stray hairs. That way, it should be possible to achieve a level of balance and symmetry that looks both professional and in style.
Popular Opinion
Despite differing opinion amongst professionals, the majority of opinion online suggests that a beard should not be too long on the neck. It will depend on personal preference, but the consensus is that a beard should remain tidy and well groomed. Many forums and guides suggest that a beard should reach the top of the Adam’s apple, or a few millimetres below. This looks neat, whilst still providing the wearer with plenty of definition.
Health Considerations
Along with the opinions spread by barbers and popular culture, certain health considerations must also be taken into account. Everyday maintenance of the beard is essential in order to keep it healthy, with regular washing and brushing to keep it in good condition. In some cases, there can be microbial growth that can cause skin irritations, especially in hot climates. Therefore trimming down the beard towards a more traditional look can help to reduce this.
Speaking in a general sense, a well-groomed beard should be able to comfortably sit around the middle of the neck. Too short and the look will be lost, too long and it will be far more prone to picking up dirt and bacteria. It is possible to control it and keep it from getting out of control, and with a bit of patience and effort, it should be possible to maintain a style that is both attractive and practical.
Grooming Techniques
Properly grooming a beard is the key to achieving the perfect look. This starts with understanding the shape of the face, as this can influence the style of the beard. It is also important to bear in mind the other facial features; forehead size, jawline and nose etc. An even trim of the facial hair will help to create the desired proportion of the face.
The beard should then be trimmed with a good quality trimmer and scissors, and shaped in such a way as to neaten it up and provide an even look all around. To get the perfect length on the neck, it is usually best to trim into place. This means starting with the trimmer close to the neck and gradually moving it upwards until it comfortably meets the cheeks and chin. This should result in a neat and tidy look that can be defined, yet still have a bit of length.
Maintenance is also important; it is important to regularly trim the beard, so that it does not become unruly and wild. A good shampoo and combing regularly should help to keep it healthy, and with consistent effort, it should be possible to keep it looking sharp and clean.
Conservative Perspective
For men who prefer a more traditionally conservative look, then a simpler style of trimming is more suitable. Still allowing the beard to grow out a bit, but not extending it so far that it becomes messy and unruly. Keeping it around the jawline is usually the best way to achieve this look, as it gives the facial hair enough definition but also keeps it under control.
The decision ultimately lies with the wearer, and some believe that too much length on the beard can be a mark of neglect or laziness rather than creativity. Searching online and talking to the Barber is a good way to find out the latest styles and trends, and how to keep the beard looking neat.
Pros and Cons of Length
A longer beard on the neck does come with certain advantages, in that it helps to provide the wearer with a sense of style and confidence. However, it also comes with some disadvantages, such as picking up more dirt and dust and being harder to maintain. Apart from this, the main downside is that it tends to look less professional in comparison to a shorter and tidier style. Ultimately, it is up to personal preference and what works best for the individual.
