Your beard, much like your hairstyle, clothing, or accessories, is a powerful tool for self-expression. But the journey to beard greatness is not a one-size-fits-all affair; it’s a thrilling exploration of individuality, style, and a dash of grooming finesse. Therefore, these tips on how to choose a beard style will inspire you to craft a signature look.
How to Pick the Best Beard Style for Your Face and Style
Consider Your Face Shape
Different beard styles complement different face shapes. Hence, determine your face shape (e.g., oval, square, round, triangular) and research which beard styles suit your face shape.
Here are a few suggestions.
Oval Face Shape
Such faces are longer than wide, with slightly rounded cheekbones and a narrow jawline.
Hence, oval faces are versatile and can pull off most beard styles. Consider a short, well-groomed beard, a goatee, or a full beard. However, avoid overly long or wide beard styles as they may disrupt the symmetry.
Round Face Shape
Round faces have softer angles and wide cheekbones.
To add definition and elongate the appearance of the face, opt for beard styles with clean lines along the cheeks and jawline, such as a square beard, goatee, or a beard with a slightly pointed chin.
Square Face Shape
This face shape has a strong, angular jawline and a forehead of similar width. On top of that, it has well-defined angles.
Square faces can benefit from softer, rounded beard styles to balance the strong jawline. Further, consider a short beard with curved edges or a full beard that adds some roundness to the face.
Rectangle/Facial Oblong Face Shape
Rectangular faces are longer than wide, with a straight jawline and forehead.
To add width and balance to a rectangular face, opt for a beard style that is shorter on the sides and fuller at the chin. A medium-length beard with rounded edges or a well-groomed stubble can work well.
Triangular Face Shape
These faces have a broad forehead and a pointed or narrow chin.
To balance a triangular face, try a beard style that adds volume to the chin area, such as a full beard or a goatee. Keep the sides trimmed to avoid adding width to the forehead.
Diamond Face Shape
The forehead and chin of a diamond face shape are narrower than the cheekbones.
Hence, choose beard styles that add width to the forehead and chin while keeping the cheek area relatively clean-shaven. A full beard with well-defined edges or a beard that’s wider at the chin is suitable.
Heart Face Shape
Such a face has a wide forehead and a narrow or pointed chin.
Consequently, go for a beard style that adds width to the chin, such as a goatee or a beard that’s fuller at the chin while keeping the sides shorter.
Assess Hair Growth Pattern
Genetics influence hair growth patterns on the scalp and face. Understanding your hair growth pattern can help you select a beard style that complements your natural growth and achieves the desired look. Here are some common hair growth patterns and how they relate to beard styles:
Full and Even Growth
Some men have dense and even facial hair growth across their entire face. With such facial hair growth, you can choose from a wide range of beard styles, including a full beard, goatee, chin strap, or any other that suits your face shape.
Strong Mustache Growth
Some men have robust mustache growth compared to the rest of their facial hair. If you have such hair growth, emphasizing your mustache can be a great choice. Consider beard styles like a horseshoe mustache or a goatee.
Patchy Growth
It exhibits uneven distribution of facial hair, with some areas being sparser than others.
For those with patchy growth, it’s often best to opt for beard styles that strategically cover or minimize the patchy areas. A well-groomed stubble or a short beard can provide a neat and stylish look and hide the appearance of patchiness.
Beard Neckline
The natural neckline of your beard, where it transitions from the face to the neck, can sit high or low. A higher neckline can create a neater appearance, while a lower neckline can give a fuller, more rugged look.
Consider the Maintenance Required
Beard styles can vary in terms of maintenance requirements. Some beard styles, like stubble or shorter beards, may require less grooming and upkeep. However, longer, more intricate styles may demand more attention and maintenance. Therefore, consider how much time and effort you’ll invest in maintaining your beard style.
Personal Style and Image
Think about your style and the image you want to project. Consider how the beard style will fit with your overall aesthetic. Do you want a clean-cut, professional look, a rugged and masculine appearance, or something more unique and trendy? Aligning your beard style with your style can help you feel confident and comfortable with your choice.
Experiment and Seek Advice
If you’re unsure about the best beard style, consider experimenting with different lengths and shapes to see what suits you. Additionally, ask a professional barber or beard stylist for recommendations based on your facial features, hair growth pattern, and personal preferences. They can offer expert insights and suggest styles that may enhance your appearance.
Conclusion
You can grow your beard gradually while shaping it into different styles if you don’t have a particular one in mind. Be patient, have fun with the process, and enjoy the
transformation as you explore different beard styles.
Popular Questions about Beard Styles
Which beard style is most attractive?
The attractiveness of a beard style is highly subjective and varies from person to person. Therefore, what you find attractive may be unappealing to another person. Popular beard styles many think are appealing include the stubble beard, the full beard, the goatee, and the well-groomed beard. Ultimately, the most attractive beard style is the one that complements your facial features and personal style.
What makes a beard look good?
A beard looks its best when it grows thick and evenly. Proper nutrition, hydration, and skincare can support such growth. For example, regular grooming activities like trimming, shaping, and maintaining the beard’s length give it a tidy appearance.
What beard size looks best?
The ideal beard size varies. Some men may look their best with a short, well-maintained beard, while others may prefer a longer, more robust beard.
