Growing your first beard is a huge step in any man’s life. For some, it marks the entrance into manhood. In preparation for such an important milestone, here are some tips to help you get the healthiest, best-looking beard you can.
Know Your Beard Goals
Yes, even before you start growing a beard, you have to have a goal as to what kind of beard you want to grow. Do you want it short? Long? Curly or straight? Do you want it to look wild, groomed, or structured? Knowing your goals on growing a beard will help you choose the best means to achieve it.
Start With a Clean Shave
You may be starting with a few days of not shaving (or perhaps a month or more), but it’s best to begin with a fresh shave first. Shaving off your facial hair will help you to more accurately track the growth of your beard—you can measure it against the date you first started growing. It will also help you to shape your facial hair later on.
Nourish Your Skin and Hair
Now that you’re newly shaved, you’re ready to start your journey with a clean canvas. A healthy skin and hair is the basis for a healthy beard. Make sure to wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day, and then immediately after wash apply a moisturizer. You can also use a beard oil, which helps soften your facial hair and prevent it from becoming too dry or itchy. Additionally, biotin supplements can help promote facial hair growth, although you should always consult with a physician first before taking any supplement.
Be Patient
Growing a beard is a slow process, and for a first time grower, it can seem even slower. Don’t give up! It will take some time for your beard to fully grow in and fill out. Depending on your genetics, it can take anywhere from two to six months.
Keep It Trimmed
A big mistake first time beard growers make is neglecting to trim their beard. Your facial hair will likely grow in faster in some spots than others. An uneven look can be fixed by using some beard oil and a comb to evenly distribute the oil throughout the hair. You should also keep the beard trimmed in order to shape it. A neat beard is one of the key components of a well-groomed look.
Manage the Itch
One of the most undesirable side effects of growing a beard for the first time is the itchy period your skin will go through. As your facial hair gets longer, the skin underneath can become irritated and start to itch. A good beard oil can help with the itching and the dryness. Don’t scratch though! It not only ruins the look of your beard, but can also damage skin cells, leading to additional itching and flaking.
Having said all this, growing a beard for the first time can be a unique and rewarding experience, and it’s important to document it. Take photos at different stages of your growth journey, from the first time you put down the razor, to when you achieve the goals you set for yourself. Also, don’t forget to share your journey with others. There is a large online community of beard-lovers that could offer useful tips and advice.
Keep Up with Facial Hair Maintenance
Finally, once your beard is grown in you still need to maintain it. Just like the hair on top of your head, your beard needs to be washed, conditioned, and trimmed. Additionally, you should use a beard comb to keep the hair neat and groomed. All of these efforts are necessary to keep your beard looking its best.
Know What Products to Use
When it comes to products, beard oils and balms should be the staples. Depending on the look and feel you attempt to achieve, you may also need a Pomade and some other styling products. Beard oils are generally used to treat dryness and itchiness, while balms help to condition and style the beard. Of course, you should always research the market to discover the product that works for you.
Choose the Right Tools
Both trimming and styling a beard require the right tools for the job. A good pair of trimming scissors and a beard trimmer are essential for an even shape. A sharp razor is needed for the edges and the clean line around the neck. Combs and brushes should also be a part of your kit, as they help evenly distribute product throughout the hair, and take out any knots or tangles.
Optional Styles
For those open to more bold styles, a beard with a defined line or edging is a great look. This style requires more cutting than simply trimming, as the lines and shapes must be carefully carved out. A professional groomer may be more suitable in this case to ensure quality craftsmanship. However, with a steady hand and a good sharp razor, this style can also be achieved at home.
Beard Maintenance & Care
Once you have achieved your desired look, it’s time to maintain it. Regular washing and conditioning is essential, as it keeps the facial hair soft and healthy. Be sure to also use a balanced diet for optimum facial hair growth. When it comes to styling, use only the necessary products and tools, as too much of them can cause damage.
Keep Your Skin Healthy
Finally, caring for the skin underneath is essential. You should always exfoliate to ensure there’s no build up that leads to irritation and ingrown hairs. When you are washing your beard, be gentle, as facial hair is more delicate than you may think. Afterward, apply a moisturizer and beard oil to keep the skin beneath hydrated and healthy.
