Growing a beard can no longer be considered a trend, it has become a statement. Beards are considered bold and manly, but the initialgrowing process can be anything but. Growing a beard often requires maintenance and dedication, but the result can be extremely stylish and distinguished. The good news is, when done correctly, your beard can look sharp rather than scruffy. This can be achieved by following a few easy steps and razoring away in the direction of the hair growth. To make sure that you have grown your beard the right way, you will need to follow the following techniques.
Be Patient
For the most part, patience is key when it comes to growing a beard and keeping it neat. Do not try to trim it until it’s of a certain length. Once it appears that you can comb it, wait a few more days – your beard will continue to grow longer and fuller. Sometimes, patience means not trying to trim or shape your beard too soon.
Comb Through
Use a comb before and after applying shaving products to help shape your beard and make the necessary adjustments. After combing through, you’ll be able to determine if the shape you have is something that suits your style. Even a little bit of stubble needs to be groomed and attended to – a comb can do the job.
Wash Regularly
One of the best ways to keep your new-found beard looking in tip-top shape is to make sure it is washed regularly. Showering with a gentle shampoo or beard wash will remove any residue, dead skin, and accumulated dirt that builds up over time. This will help it stay fresh and vibrant.
Shape The Moustache
If you decide to grow a moustache, you should also make sure that it is shaped to give a definitive look. To do this, you will need to trim and separate the moustache from the beard. To make sure that the moustache is balanced and symmetrical, start by trimming the edges and then follow with the middle. When using a trimmer, trim from left to right and then from top to bottom.
Use Oils and Balms
Hygiene and beard care products can take your beard to the next level. Investing in good quality oils and balms will make drying, styling and maintaining your beard much easier. These products are designed to groom and restore the health of your beard, as well as protect it from the impact of sun and wind. Be sure to look for ingredients that don’t contain toxic chemicals.
Regularly Trim The Neck Line
When a beard is not trimmed properly, the result is usually a scruffy neckline. This can damage the look of your beard, so it’s important to trim the neck line regularly. To do this, try to achieve an imaginary horizontal line across your neck. This will help your beard appear neater and less scruffy.
Trimming Sideburns
Sideburns are an essential part of a beard, and trimming them is essential to keep the overall look neat. To make sure that your sideburns are symmetrical, start off by using your thumb and middle finger to form a guideline from your temple to your earlobe and then shave the area upwards. You can also use clippers to trim them up if they get too long.
Grooming Beard Hair
Maintaining a neat beard comes down to regularly grooming it as if it were a traditional hairstyle. If you have long facial hair, use a beard comb and gently brush it towards the sides in order to encourage the beard to lay down. This advice is particularly important if you’re growing a more full and lengthy beard, as it will take longer to grow and become unruly if not kept in check.
Grooming Stubble
For those who have opted for a stubble, it still needs to look groomed and styled. Comb stubble so that it lays down and use a trimmer to shape the edges and keep it uniform. Also try to concentrate on achieving a solid line along the lower neck, as this creates a cleaner look.
Using Products To Style
Styling products can be nothing more than a wax or paste for shorter beards.Look for lightweight products that provide a good hold and a combination of medium- and long-term shine. When applying wax or paste, it’s important to use fingers instead of a comb, as this will give better control.
Shaving The Cheeks & Neck
Finally, it’s important to shave the neck and cheeks regularly in order to maintain a neat look. Start off by making sure that the neck line is kept in check, and then move onto the cheeks. To get a sharp edge, use a razor with a fresh blade in short and smooth strokes.
Avoid Frequent Trimming
Even though it’s essential to keep your beard neat and tidy, don’t be tempted to trim your beard too much in order to achieve the desired shape. Trimming or shaving too frequently can significantly slow down the growth process, as each time you do it, the follicles will take longer to heal and develop.
Improve The Quality Of The Hair
Having a quality beard also requires quality hair – which means that you need to look after your beard by taking proper nutrition, reducing stress levels and avoiding smoking. This will help improve the overall quality of the hair, making it easier to style and look great.
Try Out Different Beard Styles
The fun part of growing a beard is getting to try out different styles and designs. You can experiment with different lengths, widths and shapes until you find something that suits you and looks good. It’s a great way to switch things up and enhance your look.
Conclusion
Growing a beard is an art form in itself. It requires patience, dedication and the right products to make sure that it looks natural and stylish. Adopting a beard grooming routine early on will help to ensure that your beard looks its best. Maintenance is key when it comes to having a sharp-looking beard, so make sure that you follow the tips above.
