Appearance is a big part of modern life as it can convey a sense of style and self-confidence. Given the times we live in, using a beard straightener to make a good impression is fast becoming a common practice. It’s an increasingly popular choice for men who want to style their facial hair without having to use more traditional methods.
At a glance, a beard straightener looks like a hair straightener. However, the two devices have some key differences. While a hair straightener works with the use of high heat, a beard straightener applies even heat that’s gentler on the face and also effective in styling facial hair.
So how often should you use a beard straightener? Experts recommend using a beard straightener regularly – at least once a week – to keep the facial hair neat and maintained. Using a beard straightener regularly can also be beneficial in the long run, since it can help to shape the hair more easily and efficiently. It also helps keep split ends in check – something that can make the beard look unkempt and give the impression of being messy.
A good practice is to shape the beard using a combination of the beard straightener and a comb. The comb sets up the facial hair, while the beard straightener helps to ‘tame’ it. It’s important to note that a beard straightener is not a one-time deal – like a hair straightener, it is a regular maintenance tool.
Of course, the frequency with which you use a beard straightener will also depend on the desired style. For example, if you’re aiming for a more natural look with minimal effort, the beard straightener can be used once every two weeks or so. On the other hand, if you’re looking to craft a highly-structured style, then you’ll need to use the beard straightener more often.
When it comes to beard straightening, the best results come with practice. It’s also a good idea to have some basic knowledge about the different techniques used in beard grooming. Doing so will help you use the proper techniques and the right amount of heat to get the desired results.
Finally, it’s important to take care of the skin under the beard. Remember that a beard straightener does use heat, so be sure to keep the skin moisturized when using it. One way to do this is to use a moisturizing beard oil before straightening. This will not only help with skin care, but also help protect the hair and keep it looking healthy and good.
Protecting The Beard
Taking care of the beard is important since it is the first line of defence against environmental factors such as wind and sun. Keeping the facial hair healthy and strong is essential for a long-lasting style and will require regular maintenance. This could include weekly combing and brushing, and having a regular trim as well as using a beard straightener to style a beard for special occasions.
An often overlooked element of beard care is maintaining the oil content of the skin. When a beard is not properly moisturized and conditioned, the skin underneath becomes dry and itchy, leading to split ends and hair breakage. Applying the right amount of oil to the skin is key in keeping the facial hair in optimal condition, and using a beard straightener more frequently can dry the skin out, so it’s important to use a gentler heat setting and give the beard time to recover.
It’s also important to use the right moisturizing products after straightening, both for skin and hair. Look for products with natural ingredients, as they will be much gentler on the skin and won’t cause any unnecessary damage or drying.
The Right Tools
It’s not just the frequency of use that should be taken into account when thinking about how often to use a beard straightener. Another important aspect is the type of beard straightener itself. Different beard straighteners have different functions and heat settings, so it’s crucial to choose the right device for one’s particular type of beard.
For instance, those with thicker and courser facial hair will need to use a higher-powered device in order to get the desired results; using a device with a low heat setting for such a beard would be insufficient. Generally, ceramic tourmaline-coated beard straighteners are preferable, as they generate far infrared heat, which is gentler on the hair and gives better results.
Temperature and Timing
It’s important to be mindful of temperature and timing when using a beard straightener. Applying too much heat or leaving the device on the beard for too long can both cause damage, so it’s important to set the right temperature and stick to the recommended styling time.
It’s also important to note that the device needs to be heated up before use. While some standard ones can heat up in just 15 to 20 seconds, it is still important to be patient and wait for the device to heat up properly. Otherwise, it’s easy to end up with an uneven result, or worse, burnt patches on the skin.
Preparing the Beard
Properly preparing the beard for a beard straightener is just as important as the device itself. Before styling, make sure the beard is completely dry by towel-drying it or allowing it to air-dry. It’s also a good idea to use a blow-dryer on the lowest setting, just to be sure.
To get the best results, it’s important to section the beard before straightening. This ensures that the selected style is consistent on all parts of the face. As with using a comb and a beard straightener, sectioning the beard also allows for uniform heat distribution, resulting in a more polished and structured look.
Beard Care In General
The frequency of use for a beard straightener should also depend on the overall condition of the beard. If the facial hair is suffering from breakage and split ends, use a beard straightener more sparingly and concentrate on nourishing and caring for the beard.
In such cases, applying a beard balm or beard oil can help to replenish the moisture in the skin and restore the beard’s natural shine. By taking a break from styling and allowing the beard to recover, it’s possible to restore the shape and look of the beard in just a few weeks.
The Final Word
Beard straighteners are great tools for styling facial hair and giving it structure, but it’s important to remember that they require proper use and maintenance. Applying the right amount of heat and using the appropriate technique for the desired look will help ensure the best results without compromising the condition of the facial hair.
So overall, it’s up to the individual to decide on the frequency of using a beard straightener depending on their styling goals and the condition of their beard. However, it’s important to bear in mind that regular use is key in achieving and maintaining a neat, well-kept style.
