Looking at one’s best is no longer associated with women alone. Men too can style their looks in myriad ways. However, the best beards take patience, preparation and care. To maintain and style the beard requires research to be vetted before putting a blade to beard.
Timing is key: Uneven hair lends an unattractive look to the face. The best option is to use an electric shaver to trim the longer patches of beard to maintain an even length across the face. This will slow down the growth of the beard and will also improve overall appearance throughout the first few weeks.
Styles: Celebrities including George Clooney, Ben Affleck and Jake Gyllenhall have all showcased various styles of beards. It is advisable to make sure that the beard compliments the shape of the face before styling it – not everyone can pull off the rugged ‘Tom Hardy’ bearded look! One can choose from:
Square: Men with square faces should opt for styles that make their faces appear less box-like and more slender. The best style for this facial shape is a light but all-over beard; this will mean constantly trimming beard with electric shaver to ensure it stays in a suitable length.
Round: In order to add shape to the face, it is important to ensure the length of hair on the chin is longer than the sides. Try to avoid bushy sideburns and keep the sides of the beard short.
Triangular: Men with triangular-shaped faces tend to have very pointed chins. Having a longer, fuller beard will make these faces appear more masculine by adding weight along the jaw-line and chin.
Maintenance: For those who have never grown a beard, it is vital to remember to keep it clean. It is higly recommended to use a fine-toothed comb to keep the beard smooth and free from tangles. Don’t forget to use shampoo and conditioner on the beard as its length increases, this will keep it clean and stop the beard smelling like damp hair. One of the most beneficial products that one should invest in is clear shaving oil, this will ensure clean lines around the beard. This will soothe the skin in the early stages of growth and will also help with irritations and itchiness.
Trimming: To neaten the look further, it is important to trim neckline, upper cheeks and moustache lip. Men usually trim their beard too much; this will lead to mistakes being made and shaving off the whole beard. Wait at least a month before trimming to bring a shape to the beard.
Essential Tools
Electric trimmer
Fine-toothed comb
Clear shaving oil
Small trimming scissors
Credit: Asgar Saboo: www.asgarboo.com
