The best way to grow, style, and care for your beard

The Rise of Facial Hair: More Men Grow Beards, Mustaches

Once clean-shaven faces were seen as the epitome of distinction and gentlemanly appearance. However, trends have clearly shifted in recent years. Now beards, mustaches, and other facial hair styles have become popular among sophisticated men. While some women still claim clean-cut looks are most attractive, others see facial hair as a mark of masculinity with great appeal.

As more men embrace various facial hair options, many studies have explored women's preferences. Unfortunately, most research still indicates women favor clean-shaven daily. But this is not stopping the trend of increased facial hair growth among men. In fact, more males now sport mustaches, beards, and other styles than at any time since the 1970s.

Those who grow out their facial hair take pride in the work it requires to maintain a well-groomed style. Contrary to arguments it shows negligence, devotees insist upkeep demands more effort than simply shaving it all off. Do some women like the look? Certainly. But as my wife reminds me, not all will come around—especially if they're anything like her! Still, it seems the facial hair movement continues marching forward regardless of inconsistent preferences in the studies. For men enjoying their new looks, their passion wins out over any doubts about attractiveness to some potential partners.

Essential Products for Facial Hair Care
Growing and maintaining facial hair requires some key grooming tools. For basic trims, an electric beard trimmer may suffice. But serious facial hair enthusiasts need a more complete toolbox.

Trimmers & Clippers
Both electric and manual clippers are important. Quality rotary trimmers are best for defining edges and controlling length across larger areas. For precision work on lines and contours, nothing beats small clippers powered by the wrist.

Razors
Close shaves around contours require a sharp blade. Cartridge razors can work but tend to pull and irritate skin around delicate areas. A double-edged safety razor allows for a smoother shave with minimal passes. Replaceable blades are cheaper and kinder to skin long-term.

Combs & Brushes
A good mustache comb is essential for training hairs and distributing oils. Look for picks with closely spaced metallic teeth. Boar bristle brushes help exfoliate the skin underneath while distributing natural oils along the follicles.

Creams & Balms
A facial hair-friendly moisturizer prevents flaking and itching as hair grows in. Beard balms condition and style without weighty residue. Options with natural oils like coconut, argan or jojoba are best.

Scissors
Sharp, barber-grade mustache scissors allow for precise trimming of delicate hairs around the lip and edges of hairlines. Invest in a quality pair for crisp lines.
With the right combination of electric and manual tools, any man can achieve a healthy, well-groomed facial hair style with minimal fuss.

For men devoted to artful facial hair styles, a skilled barber should be a regular part of one's grooming routine. Just as one wouldn't cut their own hair, it's best to leave meticulous facial hair detailing to a professional. Experienced barbers specialize in sculpting beards, trimming lines, and maintaining shapes tailored for diverse face and hair types. Through observation and consultation, they understand a client's growth patterns and can guide in achieving personalized looks. Whether through electric clippers, straight razors, or scissors, barbers impart techniques to keep styles crisp between visits.

Compared to traditional haircuts, facial hair trims from a barber provide excellent value. Their expertise allows achieving precise contours and balanced shapes more easily than DIY methods. Clients also gain ongoing guidance for products and home care routines to maintain barber-quality results on their own.

Growing an impressive beard is part art and part patience. Like tending a garden, it requires dedicated nurturing over time to produce the style you envision. Stick with these steps to guide healthy growth. In the initial phase, your skin adjusts to the changes. Be gentle - resist urges to scratch and instead moisturize daily. Within a few weeks, your face will acclimate to its new coat. Resist premature sculpting as length returns. Allow at least an inch or more to take shape before defining your pattern.

Genetics influence what we can achieve, so aim for the best version of your natural look. If some areas seem reluctant after diligent care, accept them gracefully rather than frustration. Your sense of self extends far beyond any one style. For optimal growth, nourish your body as you would a seedling. A daily multi-vitamin supports hair follicles from within.

As your beard flourishes, tend it with pride. The dividends of patience are a head of hair uniquely suited to your vision - and worthy of all the commitment it took to cultivate.