Beards, and their varying thickness, have become all the rage in recent years with men of all ages attempting to grow out their facial hair and perfect their chin-strip or dizzying goatee. But how thick a beard should a man grow? It’s a sometimes tricky question of personal taste.
The answer to the question of how thick should a beard should be largely comes down to lifestyle, facial shape, and genetics. All of these factors will affect how the beard looks, and how it should be shaped and groomed.
For example, individuals with a wider face may want to emphasise the width by growing out their beard a bit wider as well. On the other hand, those with narrower faces may look better with a thinner, more streamlined beard that keeps the sides trimmed. In other words, the beard should match and compliment the shape of the face.
On to genetics. We all have different hair thickness and beard growth rates, with some having denser and thicker facial hair, while others having much less. It’s advisable to work with what you have in terms of beard growth, rather than fighting against it. Observe what some of the hairs are doing naturally and take the time to get a trim and tidy.
Of course, lifestyle plays a part too. If you tend to be active, you may want to keep the beard a bit shorter and/or less dense in order to avoid collecting sweat and dirt. For those in a profession where short or neatly groomed beards are preferred or mandatory, a thinner or shorter beard is essential.
Overall, when it comes to beard thickness, personal preference is still the strongest factor – bar none. It’s advisable for men to experiment with different styles and lengths to see which one works best for them. Before trimming, remember to always comb the beard out in the same direction as the natural hair growth.
To get the best results, go to a professional barber and have them trim your beard to a desired length. Professional barbers know the tips and tricks that can really transform men’s beards, so give it a try and see what works best for you.
Grooming
Apart from deciding on how thick a beard should be, grooming should also be taken into consideration. Properly grooming the beard will ensure that it looks neat, healthy and presentable. Here are a few tips to make sure you look your best regardless of the thickness you choose:
- Comb your beard in the same direction as the natural hair growth to distribute oil evenly.
- Always have the ends trimmed to give your beard a neat and finished look.
- Visit the barber regularly to have split ends trimmed and the shape refined.
- Lubricate the beard with oil and balm, such as argan oil, to prevent it from getting dry and itchy.
- Wash your beard every few days with a mild beard shampoo.
These grooming techniques can help ensure a neat and well-maintained look and will extend the life of the beard.
Products
Men with thicker beards may require additional products and tools to ease the grooming process. Beard trimmers or razors with a longer blade are some of the best tools for creating clean, neat lines and achieving a trimmed, polished look. It is essential to use products specifically designed for men’s facial hair, as they help to keep the beard soft and reduce irritation.
If your beard is getting particularly unruly, you may want to invest in some beard wax or beard oil to help control and maintain it. These products protect and nourish the beard and are great for adding a defined look without looking overly manicured.
Nutrition
Nutrition is an important factor in the health of a beard. A good diet, full of vitamins and minerals, helps to promote better hair growth and keeps the beard thick and strong. Incorporating lean proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and essential fats can help to nourish the strands from the inside out and make a much thicker beard in the long run.
Vitamin E has also been found to be very beneficial for hair follicles and may help to reduce inflammation and stimulate hair growth. Eating foods that are rich in Vitamin E such as avocado, kiwi, nuts and seeds will do wonders to improve the quality and thickness of a beard.
Maintenance
Thicker beards often require more attention when it comes to caring and upkeeping. It’s important to consistently condition and groom the beard in order to keep it healthy and looking its best. Regular oiling and deep conditioning will help to keep the beard soft and supple and protect it from getting too dry and brittle.
Using a beard brush is also a good idea for a thicker beard. Such a brush can help to evenly distribute the oils throughout the beard and keep it free of dirt and debris.
Styling
When styling a thicker beard, men must always look toward proportion. If the beard is thick, it is important to balance it out with shorter hair on the sides in order to avoid looking unkempt. It’s also important to maintain symmetry so that the beard looks good on both sides of the face.
Aside from that, there are plenty of other styling options available. For instance, a quiff looks especially sharp with a thick beard, while a horseshoe goatee looks best on those with a thicker beard.
Shaving
There comes a time when shaving is in order. Men who are looking for a fresh start may want to trim down their beards for a completely new look. But this doesn’t mean the end of a thick beard. It can easily come back with a little care and dedication, growing back thicker and better than ever.
When shaving, it is important to make sure the beard is properly washed and hydrated, as well as protect the skin with a moistening, lubricating shave cream or shaving oil. Then, use a shave razor for the best results.
Colour
Colouring a beard can also be an option for men who want to enhance the thickness of their beards, giving the illusion of a fuller look. There are different types of dyes available, including washable dyes (which lasts only until the next wash), as well as semi-permanent and permanent dyes. Of course, it’s important to use a good quality dye that is specifically designed for beards, to avoid any adverse reactions.
Summary
Deciding on how thick a beard should be largely depends on lifestyle, facial shape, genetics and personal preference. Grooming, products, nutrition and maintenance are all important factors to consider when making this decision. Styling, shaving and colouring can also be techniques that can be used to enhance or change up a beard if desired.
