Part 1: Trimming Basics
Growing a perfect beard isn’t easy, but ultimately the best way to start is by trimming your beard with the right tools. To get the clean look you want, you’ll need to invest in a quality beard trimmer, scissors and a comb. It’s important to understand that a trimmer generally has two primary functions. First, it can trim and shape your beard. Second, it can be used to create specific lines or ridges that give your beard a unique appeal. That’s why it’s a must-have tool if you want to get perfect beard lines.
When using any of these tools to trim your facial hair, the key lies with using the proper amount of pressure. Whenever you’re using scissors, always make sure you’re applying the correct pressure to avoid any cut or injury. In addition, the trimmer should never be held directly against your face. Instead, when using a trimmer, lightly touch it against your skin using the end of the blade that’s farther away from the blade guard so you don’t cut yourself.
Beard expert, Jos Isberg suggests that to get the best results, use your trimmer on low velocity and low intensity. Pay close attention to the angle of the trimmer while trimming the hair to avoid any unwanted razor burns. Additionally, use short strokes on the beard, to ensure even trimming. “The other thing to keep in mind when shaping beard lines is to always stay within the outline of the existing beard. You should never trim outside the boundaries of your existing facial hair,” he explains.
Once you’re done trimming, use a comb to brush the beard down towards the chin. This will allow you to better visualize the shape and line of your beard. To find the perfect environment for the best beard trimming results, makes sure you’re in a brightly lit area. This will help you more accurately gauge the amount of distance for the inner corners of your beard and other cuts you’d like to make.
Part 2: Decide On The Style
Knowing the type and look of beard you’d like to achieve is essential for proper trimming. But since getting the perfect lines requires precision and accuracy, consider starting by taking your time. Choose a style that’s easy to begin with and then, as you progress and learn more about it, you can move onto the more complicated styles.
Two major beard styles include the round cut and the fade cut. A round cut involves trimming your facial hair so that it’s even all around the face. This look gives you a neat appearance, however, it’s important to note that beard hairs won’t all grow at the same length. To get a closer look, you’ll need to trim each area to ensure they’re even. Additionally, a round cut is ideal for all lengths and shapes of beards.
Meanwhile, a fade cut involves cutting the hair in a gradually diminishing gradient. This look works best for beards that are more medium to longer in length. The goal is to create a faded appearance, allowing the hair to gradually decrease in length as it approaches the cheekbone. Because of this, the lines in a fade cut can be tricky so make sure you use the trimmer in a slightly diagonal angle for more accuracy.
If you’re feeling confident, you can move onto other more complicated styles such as the chin point, sideburns and temples. For example, the chin point involves creating a point at the middle of the chin by gradually fading up to the height of the center of your mouth. It’s an impressive beard style that can give you a fashionable, edgy look.
No matter which style you choose, always pay attention to the details. This is important because a small miscalculation can easily alter the entire look of the beard. If it’s your first time, take your time and give yourself a few minutes break to get a better view of the entire beard.
Part 3: Keep The Neckline Natural
One of the most important tasks when trimming a beard is maintaining the neckline. Your neckline shapes the look and the process of trimming it is simple yet delicate. To mark it, start at the most exterior of your ears, then move down to the chosen shape on your neck. When choosing the shape of the neckline, make sure it contours naturally with the shape of the face.
In the end, simply trim the hair around the chosen shape and make sure to move the trimmer up and down in small strokes for a more precise cut. It’s also important to note that if you’re looking for a clean cut, you’ll need to shave the hair beneath your neckline with a razor. This will help you draw in a more defined and sharper line.
If you don’t have experience trimming down your neckline, try to leave it untouched for the first time. This way you can better assess the shape and style of your beard. After you’ve experimented a bit more and become comfortable with trimming your facial hair, then you can adjust the neckline and make it more suitable to your preferences.
Part 4: Perfect Lines Along The Cheeks
When it comes to getting perfect beard lines, the cheeks can often be a neglected area. However, maintaining the cheek line is equally important and the process is the same as the neckline. Start at the most exterior of your ears then draw an imaginary line up towards your sideburns.
As with the neckline, it’s important to choose a shape that matches naturally with the shape of the face. When trimming the cheek line, you’ll need to pull the skin taut with one hand, then use the trimmer for a more detailed cut. Once you’re done, double check your results in the mirror and make sure that the cheek lines are equal on both sides.
The main thing to keep in mind is to never use trimmers inside the beard. This can easily thin out the beard and make it look asymmetrical. Instead, you should use a conventional razor to get a closer look. Don’t shave off too much hair at once, always go in small increments.
Part 5: Finishing Touches
After you’ve achieved the desired lines and shape, it’s finally time to give yourself a real finished look. This is a crucial step, not only because it ensures that all the hairs will be even in length, but also because it gives you a better idea of the overall look.
Start by adjusting the length of the beard. Depending on your face shape and personal preference, you can go for a shorter and more neat looking beard or a fuller and thicker one. If you’re looking to create a unique texture, then use the trimmer’s guard to adjust the length of the beard but make sure to avoid the neck and face regions.
Once you’ve done this, use scissors to get rid of all the split ends, as residual hairs tend to appear in these areas. Doing so will make sure your beard looks neat, clean and even. Now all you have to do is brush the beard and use a good quality beard oil to give it a polished finish. This will help smooth out your beard and make it look sleeker and more presentable.
Part 6: Maintaining The Lines
The truth is that maintaining the perfect beard lines isn’t something you can do after a one-time trim. To keep your beard looking put-together, you’ll need to set up a bi-weekly trimming routine.
Applying beard oil twice daily can also help reduce split-ends as it helps provide essential nutrients and make the beard softer and more manageable. This will make it easier to keep the lines crisply. Keeping a neat beard also entails proper washing. Simply use a mild beard shampoo and conditioner to make sure that your beard remains clean and tangle-free.
Ultimately, when it comes to classical trimming the iconic beard lines, it’s important to be aware of the style you want, prep the skin and most importantly, take your time. Do not rush. It’s perfectly alright to take several attempts before you get the desired lines. Practice will make it easier every time you want to revamp your beard style.
Part 7: Progressing To Professional Cuts
As you spend more time trimming and taking care of your beard, you’ll eventually become more comfortable and confident involving yourself with the different styles. If you often find yourself visiting a barber for the same style, you’ll eventually start to become knowledgeable and understand how the different beard lines are created.
This is especially true if you find the right barber. It’s best to consult with someone who truly understands the beard styles, and is able to work closely with you to create the desired look. Furthermore, many barbershops now offer trimming and cutting classes if you’re looking to get an even better grip on the various cutting tools.
Improving your bearding skills will allow you to take your time and really practice getting more intricate styles that are not possible with a trimmer. Many of these techniques require special tools and should be done by a professional. Therefore, it’s best to keep learning and exploring new ideas and possibilities for styling the perfect beard lines.
Part 8: Cleaning Up After Trimming
After your beard lines are all set, it’s important that you clean up the mess by vacuuming the area or by wiping it with a wet wipe or a cloth. It’s also important to be patient as some of the hair strands can take some time to come off. Additionally, it’s best to use a cleaning brush to properly sweep away the hairs that may be stuck to the folds of your skin.
To ensure the best results and to make sure that no residual hairs are left behind, take a water and soap mixture and use your fingers to thoroughly clean the area. This step will help moisturize the area and will discard any stray hairs.
On the other hand, for a more professional yet easy method, consider using a blow dryer and concentrate the air on the shaved areas of the beard. Ensure that no unwanted hair is left behind before ending the process. Remember, cleaning up the beard only takes a few minutes and will save you from the after-shave itch.
Part 9: Trimming Necessities and Essentials
When it comes to trimming and grooming essentials, having the right tools will make a huge difference. Make sure to invest in top quality scissors and trimmers that will last you a long time. Quality trimmers will prevent accidental cuts and will help you get the
