The Idle Man Presents The Men's Grooming Guide The-Idle-Man-Presents-The-Mens-Grooming-Guide | Page 21

How to Grow and Maintain a Beard
"He that hath a beard is more than a youth, and he that hath no beard is less than a man” William
Shakespeare.
The first step to growing a Beard is really quite straightforward… stop shaving! However, the path
to hirsute delight is paved with potential pitfalls. As such, the Captain has drawn long on his Briar
pipe of experience and is simply delighted to offer his ten penny worth below.
Let it grow, let it grow let it grow. Do not shave for at least six weeks, this will reveal where your
beard growth is strongest, it’s best to avoid any trimming or shaping at this stage. Eat a well-
balanced diet. Your hair is an accurate statement of both your lifestyle choices and state of health.
If within this initial period of experimentation your face becomes a tad itchy, I would advise
moisturising your stubble with a good quality beard oil, be patient and rest assured you will grow
through this irritation.
Photo Credit: Guerreisms
Don’t fall at the first hurdle. Ignore disparaging remarks made by your mother, friends, partners
and/or work colleagues! Carry on!
In time, visit a reputable barber who as an adept facial hair stylist and, given your raw hirsute
canvas, will be able to sculpt your beard to suit your face shape, the cut of your jib and your
20