Hello, dear whisker wielders! You’ve decided to rock the beardstache, an incredible hybrid that merges the full, commanding presence of a beard with the sleek, stylized finesse of a well-groomed mustache. And why not? It’s a look that screams confidence, sophistication, and a solid appreciation for the finer things in life.
But like any piece of art, a beardstache doesn’t just happen. It’s not about letting your facial hair run wild – oh no! A truly spectacular beardstache requires skill, patience, and of course, a steady hand with the trimmer. This brings us to an all-important question: how can you achieve that perfect trim that keeps your beardstache looking sharp, fresh, and utterly impressive?
Don’t you worry, my friends! We’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about trimming your beardstache, so you can truly embrace your edge. Read on, and prepare to become a master of the beardstache.
Table of Contents
What is a Beardstache?
In the wide and wonderful world of facial hair, few styles captivate the imagination quite like the beardstache. This unique style is a bit like a mullet for your face (but infinitely cooler, of course) – business on the sides and party in the middle. But what exactly is a beardstache, and what sets it apart from other facial hair styles?
In essence, a beardstache is a hybrid style that combines a prominent, fully grown mustache with a shorter, more understated beard. The contrast between the mustache and beard is the key here. This isn’t just a full beard with a mustache on top—it’s a deliberate juxtaposition that makes a powerful statement. It’s a style that says, “Yes, I value sophistication, but I also like to let loose.”
The beardstache works across a variety of face shapes and can be tailored to each face shape and individual tastes, making it a versatile and appealing choice for those looking to shake up their facial hair game.
The Storied History of the Beardstache
The beardstache, while gaining popularity in recent years, is by no means a new phenomenon. Its origins are somewhat hard to pin down, but it has certainly made its mark throughout history and popular culture.
One of the earliest examples of the beardstache can be traced back to the 19th-century American West, where rugged cowboys and lawmen like Wyatt Earp rocked this style. Here, the beardstache was not just a fashion statement but also a practical choice, offering facial protection from the harsh elements while requiring less maintenance than a full beard.
Fast forward to the golden age of Hollywood, and we see icons like Clark Gable sporting a debonair version of the beardstache on the silver screen. This era introduced a more refined take on the style, with carefully groomed mustaches and subtly stubbled beards making a mark on the red carpet.
In more recent times, the beardstache has seen a revival in popular culture. Hollywood A-listers like Christian Bale, Henry Cavill, and Idris Elba have all sported the look, infusing it with a modern, edgy appeal that resonates with today’s audiences.
From the dusty plains of the Old West to the glittering lights of Hollywood, the beardstache has proven its staying power. It’s a style that embodies a certain timeless cool and continues to evolve, much like the men who wear it.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of trimming your beloved beardstache, let’s take a moment to talk tools. Just as a painter wouldn’t dream of creating a masterpiece without the right brushes, no self-respecting beardstache enthusiast should go without the proper grooming arsenal. Here’s your checklist:
- Beard Trimmer: The star of the show, the right beard trimmer, can make all the difference between a meh and a magnificent beardstache. Look for a trimmer with a range of length settings, a strong motor, and sharp, durable blades. Some of our favorites include the Philips Norelco Series 7000 and the Wahl Lithium Ion+ Stainless Steel Trimmer.
- Scissors: For finer detailing and the perfect mustache trim, a good pair of barber scissors is a must. They’ll help you clean up stray hairs and add finishing touches that a trimmer can’t quite catch. Tweezerman’s G.E.A.R. Essential Grooming Kit comes highly recommended.
- Beard Comb: A quality beard comb or brush is key for prepping your beardstache for the trim and styling afterward. Opt for a comb with both wide and narrow teeth like the Kent Handmade Comb for maximum versatility.
- Mirror: Not just any mirror, but a large and well-lit one. You need a clear, well-lit view of your work of art in progress.
- Beard Wash & Conditioner: Always start your trimming journey with a clean, conditioned beardstache. We recommend the Jack Black – Beard Wash for its natural, nourishing ingredients.
Equipped with these tools, you’re already halfway to that perfect trim. In the next section, we’ll get into the fun part – the actual beard trimming process. So, shall we venture on, beardstache adventurers?
Prepping Your Beardstache for the Trim
Now that you’re armed with the right tools, it’s time to set the stage for that perfect beardstache trim. And just like any award-worthy performance, it all begins with some pre-show preparations. So let’s get that curtain rising!
Step 1: Clean Up!
Start by giving your beardstache a good wash with your trusted beard wash. This will remove any debris, oils, or remnants of that delicious lunch you had earlier. Remember, a clean beardstache is a happy beardstache!
Step 2: Condition and Hydrate
Once you’ve thoroughly rinsed out the wash, it’s time for some conditioning. Massage your chosen beard conditioner into your hair, paying particular attention to the thicker areas of your beard. Rinse thoroughly. This will make your beard hair softer, easier to manage, and will ultimately result in a smoother, cleaner trim.
Step 3: Dry it Out
Pat your beardstache dry with a towel. While you might be tempted to get a little rough here, remember: your facial hair deserves love! Gentle pats will do the job without causing any unnecessary damage to your hair.
Step 4: Comb it Through
Grab your trusty beard comb and gently work it through your beard and mustache. Make sure all your hairs are untangled and lying in their natural direction. This step will reveal the true length of your beard line and hairs and highlight any inconsistencies, giving you a clearer picture of what you’ll be working with when the trimming starts.
Alright, champions of the beardstache, we’ve prepared the stage. Now it’s time for the main event – the actual trimming! Are you ready to dive into the art of the beard trim itself?
The Art of Trimming: Step by Step Guide
It’s showtime, friends! You’ve got your tools, you’ve prepped your beardstache, and now it’s time to dive into the actual trimming. It’s here that your beardstache will start to take its glorious shape. Let’s get into it.
Size Reduction (If Necessary)
If you’ve let your beardstache grow out for a while and it’s a bit too unruly, you may need to start with a general size reduction. Set your beard trimmer to a high guard setting and go over your entire beard and mustache, cutting everything down to a more manageable length. Remember, it’s always better to start with a longer setting—you can always trim more if needed, but you can’t stick the hair back on!
Shaping the Mustache
Next, we’ll tackle the mustache. Your mustache is the star of the beardstache show, so take your time here. Remove the guard from your trimmer (or switch to a shorter one if you’re not comfortable freehanding) and carefully define the shape of your mustache. Remove any hair that creeps over your lip line for a cleaner look.
Shaping the Beard
Moving on to the beard, you’ll want to give it a neat, tidy look that complements your mustache without stealing the limelight. Using your trimmer with a guard that suits your desired beard length, trim your beard evenly. Pay special attention to your neck and cheek lines—clean lines make for a clean beardstache.
Blending the Mustache and Beard
The final touch in trimming is to make sure your mustache and beard blend seamlessly. This is the signature of the beardstache style. With careful scissor work, taper the density of your beard as it approaches your mustache, creating a gradient effect.
Phew! Your beardstache is now looking sharp and stylish. But we’re not done yet, oh no. Next, we’ll talk about post-trimming care to keep your beardstache looking its best.
Post-Trimming Care
Well done, bravo! You’ve successfully navigated through the waters of beardstache trimming, and now, my friend, your face sports a masterfully groomed piece of art. But our journey doesn’t end here. Much like a fine car or a sumptuous meal, a beardstache isn’t truly complete without some post-production finesse. Here’s how you wrap it all up:
Washing and Conditioning Post-Trim
Just as you did before your trim, give your beardstache another gentle wash. This not only removes the tiny hairs that inevitably find their way into your beard during trimming but also soothes your skin after its close encounter with your trimmer. Follow the wash with a round of conditioner, then pat dry gently.
Moisturizing
After your trim, your skin might feel a bit raw. A moisturizing beard oil can be just the ticket to soothe any irritation, and it also gives your beardstache a healthy shine. Lightly dab your chosen oil onto your hands and massage it into your beard and mustache. Look for oils with natural ingredients, like the Honest Amish – Classic Beard Oil, that nourish your skin and hair.
Combing and Styling
Once your beardstache is dry and moisturized, take up your comb once more and comb through your beardstache. This not only feels great (talk about a beardstache massage!), but it also helps distribute the oil evenly and gets your beardstache ready to face the world.
Congratulations, you’ve not just trimmed your beardstache; you’ve given it the royal treatment. Your beardstache is now ready to turn heads and steal hearts! But before you go, let’s talk about some common mistakes to avoid to keep your beardstache in top shape. Ready to learn some beardstache wisdom? Let’s march on.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Okay, gallant guardians of the beardstache, we’re in the final stretch. You’ve done an incredible job so far, and I couldn’t be more proud. But we all know that learning doesn’t stop when the task is done. To keep your beardstache in its prime, it’s important to be aware of the common pitfalls in its upkeep. Let’s take a look at some typical beardstache mistakes and how to dodge them:
Mistake 1: Ignoring Skin Health
Beneath your splendid beardstache is your skin, and it needs care too. Neglecting this can lead to dry skin, itching, and even beardruff—yes, it’s a thing! To avoid this, remember to moisturize regularly with a good beard oil or balm.
Mistake 2: Uneven Trimming
A lopsided beardstache can throw your whole look off balance. Always take the time to ensure both sides of your beard and mustache are even. It’s useful to step back from the mirror and assess your work from a distance, as it’s often easier to spot imbalances this way.
Mistake 3: Overtrimming
In your quest for the perfect beardstache, it’s easy to get carried away with the trimmer. Remember, it’s better to trim too little than too much, as you can always go back and trim more if needed.
Mistake 4: Neglecting the Neckline
A clean neckline can make all the difference in presenting a tidy, well-groomed appearance. Avoid the temptation to carve the neckline too high; a good rule of thumb is to trim along an imaginary line that runs from the back of one ear, under the jaw, to the back of the other ear.
Mistake 5: Forgetting Regular Maintenance
Your beardstache isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ kind of deal. It requires regular washing, conditioning, trimming, and styling to keep it looking its best.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your beardstache remains a source of pride. You’re now well-armed with the knowledge you need to rock the beardstache like a pro. In our conclusion, we’ll wrap everything up and send you on your way. Shall we wrap this up, beardstache champions?
Conclusion
And there you have it, courageous custodians of the beardstache—a comprehensive guide to help you embrace the edge and become a true master of your facial hair. You’ve not only learned how to expertly trim your beardstache, but you’ve also explored the essential tools, prepping techniques, post-trimming care, and common mistakes to avoid. With these insights under your belt, you’re ready to face the world, flaunting a truly magnificent beardstache.
Remember, as with any skill, mastering the art of the beardstache takes time and practice. So don’t fret if you’re not pitch-perfect right off the bat. With a bit of patience, you’ll soon be sporting a beardstache that turns heads wherever you go. So go on, my friends, embrace your edge, and let your best beard-stache shine!
Before we wrap up, let’s tackle a few frequently asked questions to clear up any lingering queries.
FAQ – How to Trim Beardstache
How often should I start trimming my beardstache?
The frequency of trimming can depend on your personal preference and how quickly your facial hair grows. Generally, a touch-up once a week can keep your beardstache in top form.
My skin feels irritated after trimming. What can I do?
If you’re experiencing irritation, make sure you’re moisturizing your skin post-trim. Using a soothing beard oil or balm can help. Also, check your trimmer: a dull blade can tug at hairs, causing discomfort.
Is the beardstache beard style more suitable for all face shapes?
The beauty of the beardstache is that it can work with any beard shape a variety of face shapes, adding both structure and character. Experiment with different lengths and shapes to find what suits you best.
