Growing a beard is simple: You put down the razor.

A real hedge takes dedication from the word go, and it requires constant upkeep.

Wait

This part sucks.

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via bestbeardtrimmerguide.net

You want your beard to look good and you want it now.

Give it a full month and then you know what youve got.

Washing it when you wash your scalp is usually a good rule for keeping it clean.

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Avoid shampoos with sulfates or anything that will dry your hair out.

A regular hairbrush works fine, or a beard comb.

If you go the comb route, get teeth that are made for your facial hairs needs.

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This is how you prevent ragged or ratty beard looks that scream Homeless Chic.

A beard is supposed to add volume and softness to your look.

Think cuddly teddy bear, not weird matador.

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You want your hair to stick out about an inch or more from your skin.

Adjust your trimmers accordingly.

Your beard trimmers should either have different parameters, or different guards to be placed onto it.

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Use these to fade your beard away as it starts to move down your neck.

It should go under the chin a little bit, but not actually hit your throat.

Then youre wearing a neckbeard and arent worth the bullet it would take to put you down.

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Start by selecting a beard style that suits your face.

If you have a round mug, mold it to give you a defined jawline.

Never be far from a grooming appliance and dont be shy about using it.

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This is what separates the pros from the amateurs: upkeep.

Take Feedback

Dont be the person who thinks their beard is bitchin and wont hear anything else.

Theres loads of beard forums for advice, input, and help with doing right by your chin wig.

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Talk to them and figure out how to create a shape that you love and can live with.

Its your daily companion and needs a little help all the time.

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Bielefeldt of the U.S. poses with his beard art work before the Beard World Championship 2013 in Leinfelden-Echterdingen near Stuttgart

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