Facial Hair: Yay or Nay?
I have been clean-shaven most of my life, which really means I shave every three days and allow a little stubble to grow for a couple days. A few years ago, however, I grew a beard. It was somehow liberating and it certainly felt and looked “macho” compared to my typical dapper appearance.
Through this experience, I realized facial hair provides an opportunity for men to switch up their “look”. Like being an actor, it felt like it gave me an opportunity to play a new character. I also learned that my facial hair grew into what looked like a manicured pirate. Many conversations with other men taught me that I should be thankful for the natural shape.
After quite a few months of enjoying (and trimming) my beard, I decided I was ready to shave and give my old look a try. I strategically waited until I wouldn’t have a horrible tan line. When I first shaved, it felt odd. Interestingly, it was like a reversal liberation. I was happy to be back to my clean-shaven self.
I learned that facial hair is something that any gentleman can play with to put on new characters. A beard, and even a mustache, can be charming when groomed properly and worn with cleanly styled hair. I certainly was grateful for the simple option to play a different role - just like wearing a suit one day and casual attire another, facial hair is a fun way to switch it up.
So, I say enjoy, mix it up a little, and see what grows!
Here are some tips I learned:
Trim your beard while you grow - stay on top of the grooming.
Start grooming with numbers 2-4-6 so that you can grow a fuller beard that is not wiry.
Keep the neck shaven and clean at all times.
A big problem I experienced was the itchiness at the beginning, and the solution for me was to put aloe vera cream all over. It stopped the itch almost immediately.
When you decide to cut it, don’t spend 1 hour trying to shave it off with a blade razor. Use an electric razor to bring it to a minimum and then use the blade razor. I know it sounds obvious but you will be surprised how many people make a mistake trying to cut off their beard.
As always, keep it classy and don’t end up like this guy…
Just joking, all my respect to Mr. Incredibeard. You can see his amazing beard styles here.
