Beards have been one of the biggest trends in men’s grooming for the past few years, and it looks like they’re not going anywhere in 2018. Whatever length or style your beard is, it’s important to take care of it to make sure it looks smart rather than scruffy. Here are a few of my top tips for keeping your facial fuzz in order.
Invest in a good beard trimmer
A beard trimmer is an essential tool for all men, no matter whether you prefer designer stubble or a full beard. As your beard grows, you’ll notice some areas need trimmed more than others. Using a beard trimmer allows you to make sure your beard is a consistent length all over. Don’t forget to trim any rogue hairs on your cheeks, and taper the hair on your neck for a natural finish beneath the jawline.
Choose a style that suits your face shape
Just like hair styles, different beards work better on different face shapes. If you’ve got an oval face, you’re in luck as most beards will look great on you. Longer, rectangular faces are best suited to beards which are fuller on the sides and shorter on the bottom – and the opposite is the case for round and square faces. If you’re not sure which style will suit you best, visit your barber for some expert advice.
Wash it regularly
When you’re in the shower washing your hair, don’t forget to wash your beard too. There are plenty of specialist beard shampoos available, but I’d suggest just using your normal shampoo. If it’s good enough to use on your scalp, it’s good enough for your face. Wash your beard a couple of times a week to keep it clean – but don’t wash it every day as this can strip it of its natural oils. Cleanse and moisturise your face as normal to make sure the skin underneath your beard is in tip-top condition.
Use a beard oil
Beard oils help to moisturise and hydrate your facial hair, keeping it soft and shiny. For a conditioned and tamed beard, apply a small drop of beard oil every morning. Just use a small amount so it can work its magic without leaving your beard looking greasy. Try to use a beard oil made from natural ingredients if you can as they’re kindest to your hair and skin, and give the best results.
Don’t forget to style
If you have short stubble, you can get away without styling your facial hair. But if you have a slightly longer beard, spend a few minutes perfecting it every morning and you’ll really notice the difference. A beard oil will help to tame stray hairs, but if you need something a little stronger, try a beard wax. Don’t forget to comb through your beard first to keep things neat and tidy.
Be patient
You can’t just expect a perfect beard to appear overnight, so it’s important to be patient and let it grow. Depending on how your facial hair grows, it could take anything from a couple of weeks to several months. Initially, your beard can look scruffy and it can be really tempting to shave it all off – but have faith! Once your beard begins to take shape, visit your barber regularly to get things neatened up and allow continued growth.