Josh Clark
Top 12 Beard Mistakes to Avoid
Growing a beard isn’t as easy as it looks and if you’re someone who’s just begun their journey to facial hair greatness, then chances are that you’ve already made a few mistakes along the way. We all have–nobody’s perfect!
But before your next attempt at growing the perfect man-mane, take some time to learn from the top 10 most common beard mistakes so you can avoid them in order to achieve facial hair glory.
1. Letting It Get Too Scruffy
The most common mistake is letting your beard get too scruffy and unkempt. If you’re a beard newbie, it can be tempting to believe that the best thing you can do for your beard is to just let it grow. Listen closely: you don’t have to look like a mad scientist to grow an awesome beard. The key is to make sure you keep your facial hair looking neat and tidy so that it looks like you styled it and not like it just grew wild.
2. Not Using Quality Beard Products
Another common mistake is not using the right products to help you grow and maintain your beard. Quality beard oil, shampoo, balm, waxes, and other products can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your beard looking its best. Investing in a good set of products will help you grow and maintain your beard in the long term.
Though it can be tempting to buy the first cheap bundle of beard products you find on amazon, remember that you get what you pay for. Quality products will help keep your beard looking great, feeling great, and make it easier to maintain in the long run.
3. Not Washing or Conditioning Regularly
When it comes to beard care, one of the most common beard mistakes is not washing and conditioning your facial hair regularly. Not only does this lead to dry, brittle beards that are prone to breakage and split ends, but it can also lead to irritation and even skin infections if not cared for properly.
Make sure to wash and condition your beard at least once a week, but preferably 2-3 times a week with a quality beard shampoo and conditioner. This will help keep your facial hair looking, feeling, and smelling great.
4. Not Trimming Your Beard Regularly
If you’re growing a beard, you need to make sure that you’re trimming it regularly. This doesn’t mean shaving it all off, but simply taking a few minutes each week to clean up your beard and remove any split ends or stragglers that are out of place. Before hacking away, make sure you know how to trim a beard.
Using the right tools and technique can help you keep your beard looking neat without having to shave everything off. Investing in a quality pair of hair clippers and a beard trimmer will help ensure that you have everything you need to keep your facial hair looking its best.
Neglecting to do so can lead to an unruly beard that looks messy and doesn’t have the shape or style you’re looking for. Invest in a good quality trimmer and use it every couple of weeks to keep your beard looking its best.
5. Not Protecting Your Beard from the Elements
Beard or no beard, it’s important to protect your skin from the elements. This means taking extra precautions when you’re out in the sun and wind, applying sunscreen and lip balm to protect your beard from the harsh rays of sunlight, and using a quality beard oil or balm to keep your facial hair hydrated and healthy.
6. Improper Use of Beard Oil
Beard oil is a vital part of good beard care. Failing to use it properly, or worse, not using it at all, can result in a dry, itchy beard.
To use beard oil correctly, apply the oil first thing in the morning and/or after a shower. This way, you can go about your day knowing your beard is hydrated.
When applying the oil, make sure to apply it to the beard, as well as under the beard. Massage the oil into your skin for a few minutes to ensure it is evenly distributed and that the skin underneath your beard gets its fair share of hydration.
Truthfully, you’re going to make a few beard mistakes. That’s just part of the process. But if you can figure out how to properly moisturize your beard, you’re going to be doing yourself and your beard a huge favor.
7. Using the Wrong Balm or Wax
Another common mistake is using the wrong wax or balm on your beard. Not all products are created equal, and it’s important to find one that suits your beard type. Many waxes and balms are too heavy for most beards, and can clump up, leaving your beard looking greasy and feeling heavy.
It’s important to find a good balance between hydration and hold by using a lightweight wax or balm. This will help keep your beard looking neat and tidy without feeling weighed down or greasy.
8. Using the Wrong Razor or Clipper Setting
If you’re using a razor or clippers to shape up your beard, it’s important to use the right setting. A too-short setting can lead to irritation, while a too-long setting can make it difficult to maintain a neat and tidy look.
Finding the right setting for your beard can take a bit of trial and error, but it’s worth it to keep your facial hair looking its best.
9. Over-accessorizing Your Beard
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to add a little flair to your beard, but it’s important not to go overboard. Over-accessorizing your beard with too much product or gadgets can give it a heavy, weighed-down look that isn’t very flattering.
Keep it simple and choose just a few quality products to help style your beard. This will help keep your look sharp and polished without going overboard.
10. Neglecting Your Neckline
The neckline is one of the most important parts of your beard, and it’s often the most neglected area. If you don’t take care of it properly, your beard will look messy and unkempt.
To maintain a neat neckline, you’ll want to shave the area beneath your jawline twice a week. This will keep the line straight and even, giving your beard a clean look.
11. Not Considering Your Face Shape When Styling Your Beard
Your face shape is an important factor to consider when styling your beard. Some styles may look great on certain face shapes, but might not work as well on others. For example, a full beard may look great on a round face, but might be too much for an oval or square face shape.
Take some time to consider the shape of your face when styling your beard, and choose a style that complements it. This will help ensure you look your best and feel confident in your facial hair.
12. Abandoning Your Mustache
It’s easy to forget about your mustache when you’re styling your beard, but neglecting it can have a huge impact on the overall look of your facial hair. Your mustache is a major part of the equation and should be groomed as such.
Make sure you include your mustache when you’re applying balm and oil, and take the time to trim it on a regular basis. This will help make sure your mustache is properly groomed and looking its best.
Your beard is an important part of your overall look and grooming it properly is essential. Avoiding the common beard mistakes outlined in this article will help ensure you’re keeping your beard looking its best.
Whether you’re using a wax or balm, choosing the right razor setting, or considering your face shape when styling your beard, taking the time to do it right will help you look and feel great.
Good luck! And happy beard grooming!
