Nowadays, more men are opting to grow out their beards. Whether you like to keep yours short or lengthy, a well-maintained beard can undoubtedly look attractive. Yet it’s not as easy as glancing in the mirror and cutting away. To achieve the perfect look, a well-manicured beard is essential, and the secret lies in getting a trimmed and groomed beard.
If you’re new to beard maintenance, never fear, because the process of getting a beard trim is relatively straightforward. Firstly, you’ll need to gather the right tools for the job. A pair of scissors, clippers and guard combs are the bare minimum for any well-groomed beard. You might also want to consider using a mirror to guide you through the trimming process, as well as putting a cape or towel around your shoulders – just in case of any mishaps!
Secondly, you’ll need to get your beard prepared for trimming. Start by taking a shower and combing your beard in the direction of growth. Doing so will reveal any tangle spots and help shape the beard for the trim. Once you’ve finished prepping, you’ll be ready for the next step.
Thirdly, it’s time to start trimming. Depending on the length you’re aiming for, use the guard combs to detangle and separate the beard, then use the scissors or clippers to trim it. Keep the clippers moving downwards; if you decide to trim against the grain it could cause too much of a contrast. Remember to be careful here and make small adjustments rather than cutting too much off in one go. You can always go back and trim more if you’re not happy.
Fourthly, you’ll want to go through the edges of your beard and make any tweaks you want. Using a pair of scissors for accuracy, start cutting at the centre of your neckline and angle the scissors upwards. Be wary of making it too high or low. For a finished look, you can also tidy up your moustache, chin and sideburns.
Finally, make sure you moisturise with a nourishing oil to keep your beard looking healthy. Applying a small amount of beard oil or balm ensures your beard stays soft and nourished, as well as making it easier to groom in the future.
Tips
Getting a regularly trimmed and groomed beard is essential in keeping it looking neat and tidy, so don’t be too hasty when you’re making any adjustments, as one wrong move could mean a lot of growing out. Here are some tips to bear in mind when trimming your beard:
- Keep the clippers on a medium setting; this will prevent a harsh cut and allow you to better control the length of your beard
- Take it slowly; it’s better to remove a minimal amount and keep going back than to shave too much off at once
- Don’t be tempted to go back over with a razor; this will make it too sharp and give you less control
- If you’re new to trimming, try to get a picture of your ideal look and aim towards that
- When it comes to your neckline and sideburns, use a comb to mark the spots where you want to trim, then use the scissors or trimmers to shape it as desired
- Always moisturise after trimming; this will prevent your beard from looking dry and brittle
Products
When it comes to looking after your beard, using the right products is just as important as trimming it. Buying specialised beard care products such as shampoos, conditioners, oils and balms can help keep your facial hair healthy and looking its best. Here are some of the most popular products you can invest in:
- Beard shampoo: a gentle shampoo designed to cleanse and nourish the beard, while also softening it.
- Beard conditioner: a moisturising conditioner which helps to protect the skin underneath and prevent dryness.
- Beard oil: a nutrient-rich oil that helps to reduce itchiness and prevent breakages.
- Beard balm: a leave-in treatment that helps hydrate the facial hair and give it a soft, shiny finish.
Using these products regularly can make a big difference to the health and appearance of your beard. There are plenty of brands and products available, so it’s worth doing some research into which ones will best suit your hair type and suit your needs.
Grooming
Alongside trimming and using the right products, it’s worth investing in a set of beard grooming tools. There are plenty of high-quality products on the market, including combs, brushes, scissors and clippers. Keeping a well-stocked grooming kit is a must if you want to maintain your facial hair in the best possible condition. At minimum, you should invest in a good-quality pair of scissors, a brush and a comb – these will allow you to precisely trim and detangle your beard for a neat, uniform look.
It’s also worth thinking about investing in a few accessories too. During the trimming process, a mirror can help you to see the back of your neck and hairstyle, as well as offering a helpful visual aid when shaping the sides of your beard. A cape or towel will also help to protect your clothing.
Styles
Getting the perfect look for your beard comes down to finding the right style. Depending on the length and thickness of your facial hair, there are plenty of different styles you can try. Styling gels and waxes can also be used to make sure your beard looks neatly groomed. Below are some of the most popular beard styles you could try:
- The five o’clock shadow: a classic look that involves shaving most of your beard but leaving a stubble at the sides.
- The Balbo: a cut that involves a well-defined goatee and moustache with a clean-shaven chin.
- The long beard: a style that requires minimal maintenance and involves keeping the facial hair well trimmed and shaped.
Whichever style you choose, remember to keep it well groomed and well maintained. Regular trimming and grooming will ensure that your beard looks neat and tidy and that you leave a lasting impression.
