Styling tips for joining the #BeardGang

Since time immemorial, men have been said to sport beards. History has it that men of the olden days kept beards for warmth, as protection from the elements and to serve as a cushion against injury to the jaw, and to look intimidating. Beards rarely go out of style and with the internet sensation which has seen the emergence of the #BeardGang, an online group dedicated to promoting various trends when it comes to facial hair. However, rocking a beard is not just about the allure that comes with the shagginess, there are some grooming tips to keep in mind when you take the decision to join the #BeardGang.

Starting the journey into ‘bearddom’

According to Mr Felix Adeniyan, a male stylist, in an interaction with Makeover, there are a few steps to growing a beard and they revolve around making the decision, committing to the process and ensuring maintenance.

According to him, “Growing a beard takes a combination of the right state of mind and good genes. You must know if you come from a family favoured for facial hair before starting, else you may end up frustrated. Also, different time frames for different men. Some men can grow a significant amount of facial hair in two to three weeks, while some may take a month or more to move beyond the stubble phase.”

According to Adeniyan, the beard fad is fast taking hold of many younger men, and even older men too. However, before you start out, you must know the shape that would fit your face, taking particular care of your cheek and neck lines. Interestingly, beards are not limited to a section of the society, as he noted that businessmen, students, civil servants, entrepreneurs and even pastors also fancied the bearded look.

Caring for beards

In Adeniyan’s opinion, “You should take extra care when grooming your beard, to avoid embarrassing situations. Beyond your personal care routine, ensure you visit a trusted barber when deciding on the shape you wish to go for to get expert advice. Your beards also deserve the right treatment, as much as your hair and you are expected to do the needful. You should also have a beard trimmer, if possible, apart from your regular clipper.”

Coping with itchiness

There are mild shampoos you can use for your beards, aside the soap for your normal bathing routine. Shampoo your beard everyday and gently pat it dry. This will help to ease coarseness of the facial hair. They also help to ease itchiness. You should also invest in moisturising products or oils with as many natural ingredients as possible to avoid the risk of a skin reaction or bumps.

Adeniyan also advises sticking with a stylist when grooming your beard. According to him, “It may be tempting to experiment with your stubble when trying out beards for the first time, but resist the urge to go overboard and instead, keep things simple. Be absolutely sure your hair stylist or barber is an expert with beards before trusting your face to him. Once the beard shape goes awry, you have to start over.”