GROWING IT
Push Through The Crockett Phase: Obviously, the first step in growing any beard is to stop shaving. This can present an awkward few weeks (or months depending on your “sprouting level”) where co-workers and friends aren’t sure if you’re lazy, hung over or vying for a spot on Miami Vice III. Keep doubters on their toes by avoiding extreme cases of “neck beard” (hair between lines b. and c. on illustration). Remove these hairs with a quality trimmer or fresh blade.
Get Soft: The main reason men prematurely pull the plug on beard growth is averseness to itching. There’s a degree of this that’ll always be there, but softening immature whiskers with a beard wash and conditioner can help a beard mature easier throughout its lifespan.MAINTAINING IT
Pamper Those Whiskers: Just like the hair on a man’s head, facial hair needs to be cared for to ensure it doesn’t get wiry, dry and offensive looking (unless that’s the goal). Having handsome facial hair can be accomplished by regularly washing and conditioning with targeted beard products and working out kinks and curls via regular facial exfoliation and a beard comb.
Outline A Perimeter: Unless going for the 100% bohemian look, setting beard boundaries on your cheeks and neck is essential from the start. Make lines too tight and you look like a tight-wad or gang member, let them sprout too long and you’re in Haight-Ashbury territory. For the neck area, we recommend an inch or so below the actual jaw line (line b. on illustration) and for the cheeks, follow “smile lines” (line d. on illustration) up toward sideburns.
Hold The Line: Knowing where the beard ends is only half the battle. From there, one needs to effectively carve things out. Always use amirror to ensure balance and symmetry.
(Source: gentleman-forever)
