The Ultimate Guide to the Beardstache: Grow, Style, and Maintain Your Perfect Facial Hair Combo

The beardstache, a distinctive facial hair style combining a prominent mustache with stubble or a short beard, has surged in popularity. It offers a unique blend of ruggedness and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for various face shapes and personal styles. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of achieving and maintaining your perfect beardstache, from understanding the style to mastering trimming techniques and choosing the right products.

What is a Beardstache?

Simply put, a beardstache is a facial hairstyle where the mustache is significantly longer and more pronounced than the accompanying beard. The contrast between the thick mustache and the shorter beard or stubble is what defines this look. It’s not just about growing a mustache and a beard; it’s about creating a deliberate and stylish contrast. Think of celebrities like Henry Cavill or Pedro Pascal – they often sport variations of the beardstache, showcasing its versatility.

Is the Beardstache Right for You?

Before embarking on your beardstache journey, consider whether this style complements your features and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider:

• Face Shape: The beardstache can work well with various face shapes. Round faces benefit from the added definition the mustache provides, while square faces can be softened by a well-groomed beardstache. Oval and heart-shaped faces generally suit most beardstache styles.
• Hair Growth: A full, healthy mustache is crucial. If your mustache grows sparsely or unevenly, you might need to reconsider or explore growth-promoting products. The beard, being shorter, is less demanding in terms of density.
• Personal Style: The beardstache can be dressed up or down. It can project a sophisticated image or a more rugged, casual vibe. Consider whether it aligns with your overall style and professional environment.
• Commitment: Maintaining a beardstache requires regular trimming and styling. Are you prepared to invest the time and effort to keep it looking its best?

Growing Your Beardstache: The Foundation

Patience is key when growing a beardstache. It’s not an overnight transformation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to laying the groundwork:

Step 1: The Initial Grow-Out (2-4 Weeks)

Let your facial hair grow freely for at least two to four weeks. This allows you to assess your hair growth patterns and identify any areas that might require extra attention. Resist the urge to trim or shape anything during this initial phase. This stage can be awkward, but it’s crucial for establishing the foundation of your beardstache.

Step 2: Identify Your Mustache Potential

Once you have a decent amount of growth, focus on your mustache. Observe how it grows, where it’s thicker, and where it might be thinner. This understanding will inform your shaping strategy later on. Some men find their mustaches naturally connect to their beard, while others have a distinct gap. The beardstache embraces both possibilities.

Step 3: Trim the Beard (Judiciously!)

After the initial grow-out, begin trimming your beard to the desired length for the ‘stache. This is where you start creating the contrast. Remember, the goal is for the mustache to stand out. Use beard trimmers with adjustable guards to gradually shorten your beard. Start with a longer guard than you think you need, and work your way down. It’s always easier to trim more than to grow it back!

Trimming Tips:

• Start Long: As mentioned, always begin with a longer guard on your trimmer to avoid accidentally cutting too much.
• Trim Against the Grain: This helps to lift the hairs and ensure an even trim.
• Take Your Time: Rushing will lead to mistakes. Be patient and meticulous.
• Use Quality Trimmers: Invest in a good quality beard trimmer with sharp blades for a clean and precise cut.

Step 4: Encourage Mustache Growth

While the beard is kept short, actively encourage your mustache to grow longer. You can use mustache wax to train the hairs to grow in the direction you want. Brushing your mustache regularly can also help stimulate growth. Consider using mustache growth oil or serum to nourish the hair follicles and promote thicker growth. Look for products containing ingredients like biotin, caffeine, and essential oils.

Styling Your Beardstache: Mastering the Look

Once your beardstache has reached the desired length and contrast, it’s time to refine its style. Here’s how to achieve a polished and impressive beardstache:

Step 1: Washing and Conditioning

Just like the hair on your head, your beardstache needs regular washing and conditioning. Use a dedicated beard wash and conditioner, as regular shampoos can strip your facial hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Wash your beardstache 2-3 times a week, or more often if you work in a dirty or dusty environment. Conditioning after washing is essential for keeping the hair soft, manageable, and healthy. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Step 2: Drying and Combing

Gently pat your beardstache dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, which can cause frizz and damage. Once it’s mostly dry, use a beard comb or brush to detangle the hairs and shape your beardstache. Combing also helps to distribute natural oils evenly, promoting shine and health. Choose a comb made of wood or horn, as these materials are less likely to cause static than plastic combs.

Step 3: Applying Beard Oil or Balm

Beard oil and balm are essential for moisturizing, nourishing, and styling your beardstache. Beard oil is best for shorter beards and stubble, as it easily penetrates the hair follicles and skin. Beard balm provides more hold and is ideal for shaping and taming longer beards. Apply a few drops of beard oil or a small amount of beard balm to your palms, rub your hands together, and then massage the product into your beardstache, ensuring even distribution.

Benefits of Beard Oil and Balm:

• Hydration: They moisturize the hair and skin, preventing dryness and itchiness.
• Conditioning: They soften and smooth the hair, making it more manageable.
• Shaping: Beard balm provides hold for styling and shaping.
• Shine: They add a healthy shine to your beardstache.
• Scent: Many beard oils and balms have pleasant scents that can enhance your overall grooming experience.

Step 4: Mustache Styling with Wax

Mustache wax is the key to achieving a sculpted and stylish mustache. Start with a small amount of wax – less is more! Warm the wax by rubbing it between your fingers until it becomes pliable. Then, apply it to your mustache, starting at the center and working your way outwards. Use your fingers or a mustache comb to shape your mustache into your desired style. Popular beardstache mustache styles include the handlebar, the walrus, and the natural curl.

Mustache Wax Application Tips:

• Warm the Wax: Warming the wax makes it easier to apply and distribute evenly.
• Start Small: Begin with a small amount of wax and add more as needed.
• Apply Evenly: Distribute the wax throughout your mustache, ensuring every hair is coated.
• Shape with Precision: Use your fingers or a mustache comb to create your desired style.
• Experiment: Try different styles to find what suits your face shape and personal preference.

Step 5: Trimming Stray Hairs

Even with regular grooming, stray hairs can appear and detract from the overall look of your beardstache. Use small scissors or precision trimmers to carefully remove any stray hairs that stick out or disrupt the shape of your beardstache. Pay particular attention to the neckline and cheek line. A clean neckline can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your beardstache. To define your neckline, imagine a curved line running from behind your earlobe to about an inch above your Adam’s apple. Trim any hair below this line.

Maintaining Your Beardstache: The Long Game

Maintaining a beardstache is an ongoing process. Regular trimming, styling, and grooming are essential for keeping it looking its best. Here are some tips for long-term beardstache maintenance:

Regular Trimming

Trim your beardstache every 1-2 weeks to maintain the desired length and shape. Use beard trimmers with adjustable guards to achieve an even trim. Pay attention to the mustache, ensuring it remains longer than the beard. Don’t forget to trim stray hairs regularly.

Daily Grooming

Wash, condition, and style your beardstache daily. This helps to keep it clean, moisturized, and manageable. Use beard oil or balm to nourish the hair and skin. Apply mustache wax to shape and style your mustache.

Healthy Diet and Lifestyle

A healthy diet and lifestyle can significantly impact your beardstache growth and health. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Get enough sleep to allow your body to repair and regenerate. Exercise regularly to improve circulation and promote hair growth. Reduce stress, as stress can negatively impact hair growth.

Beard Products: Choosing the Right Ones

The market is flooded with beard products, so choosing the right ones can be overwhelming. Here are some essential beard products and tips for selecting them:

• Beard Wash: Choose a beard wash that is specifically formulated for facial hair. Avoid harsh shampoos that can strip your beard of its natural oils.
• Beard Conditioner: Look for a beard conditioner that contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or argan oil.
• Beard Oil: Choose a beard oil that contains natural oils like jojoba oil, argan oil, grapeseed oil, or sweet almond oil. These oils are easily absorbed and won’t leave your beard feeling greasy.
• Beard Balm: Look for a beard balm that contains beeswax, shea butter, and natural oils. The beeswax provides hold, while the shea butter and oils moisturize and condition the hair.
• Mustache Wax: Choose a mustache wax that provides the desired hold and texture. Experiment with different waxes to find what works best for your mustache.
• Beard Comb/Brush: Choose a comb or brush made of wood or horn to avoid static. A wide-tooth comb is best for detangling, while a brush is ideal for shaping and styling.
• Beard Trimmers: Invest in a good quality beard trimmer with sharp blades and adjustable guards for precise trimming.

Beardstache Styles: Inspiration and Ideas

The beardstache offers a wide range of styling possibilities. Here are some popular beardstache styles to inspire you:

• The Natural Beardstache: This style features a short, natural-looking beard with a slightly longer, untamed mustache. It’s a low-maintenance option that exudes a rugged and casual vibe.
• The Handlebar Beardstache: This style features a classic handlebar mustache with a short, well-groomed beard. It’s a sophisticated and stylish choice that requires regular shaping and styling.
• The Walrus Beardstache: This style features a thick, bushy mustache that droops down over the upper lip, paired with a short, stubble beard. It’s a bold and distinctive style that commands attention.
• The Goatee Beardstache: This style combines a goatee with a longer mustache. The goatee can be a full goatee or a more defined chin strap.
• The Faded Beardstache: The beard is faded from short at the sideburns to a slightly longer length towards the chin. The mustache maintains a prominent length.

Common Beardstache Mistakes to Avoid

Even with careful planning and execution, it’s easy to make mistakes when growing and styling a beardstache. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Trimming Too Much: Always start with a longer guard on your trimmers and work your way down. It’s easier to trim more than to grow it back.
• Neglecting the Neckline: A clean neckline is essential for a polished look. Trim any hair below your defined neckline.
• Using Harsh Products: Avoid using harsh shampoos and soaps that can strip your beard of its natural oils. Use dedicated beard products instead.
• Overusing Mustache Wax: Start with a small amount of wax and add more as needed. Overusing wax can make your mustache look stiff and unnatural.
• Ignoring Stray Hairs: Regularly trim stray hairs to maintain the shape and definition of your beardstache.
• Not Being Patient: Growing a beardstache takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t look perfect right away. Keep trimming, styling, and grooming, and you’ll eventually achieve your desired look.

The Beardstache: A Style Statement

The beardstache is more than just a facial hairstyle; it’s a statement. It’s a way to express your individuality, your confidence, and your sense of style. With the right care, attention, and grooming, you can rock a beardstache that turns heads and makes you feel great. So, embrace the beardstache, experiment with different styles, and find what works best for you. The journey to your perfect beardstache is an adventure – enjoy the ride!

Beardstache for Different Occasions

One of the best aspects of the beardstache is its adaptability. The same base style can be tweaked slightly to suit different occasions.

• Formal Events: For a black-tie event or a professional conference, keep your beard trimmed meticulously and use a strong-hold mustache wax to achieve a clean, defined shape, like a tightly curled handlebar or a neatly groomed Chevron. Pair it with a well-tailored suit.
• Casual Outings: For weekend brunches or casual gatherings, you can let your beardstache be a bit more relaxed. Use a light-hold beard balm for a natural, textured look. Consider a less structured mustache style, like a natural curl or a slightly groomed walrus.
• Outdoor Adventures: When hiking, camping, or engaging in other outdoor activities, prioritize practicality and comfort. Keep your beard trimmed short to avoid tangles and debris. A simple beard oil will help protect your facial hair from the elements. A shorter, less styled mustache is ideal for these settings.
• Date Night: For a date night, aim for a balance between sophistication and approachability. A medium-hold mustache wax will allow you to create a stylish yet relaxed shape. Focus on keeping your beard well-groomed and soft to the touch. Choose a beard oil or balm with an appealing scent.

Dealing with Patchy Beard Growth

Not everyone is blessed with uniform facial hair growth. If you have patchy areas in your beard, there are strategies you can employ to create the illusion of fullness for your beardstache.

• Patience is Key: Sometimes, patchy areas fill in over time. Continue to grow out your beard for a few months before making any drastic decisions.
• Adjust Your Style: Consider a beardstache style that minimizes the visibility of patchy areas. A shorter beard style can make patchy areas less noticeable.
• Beard Products: Certain beard products, like beard growth oils or serums, claim to stimulate hair growth. While results vary, some men have found them helpful. Look for products with ingredients like Minoxidil (use with caution and after consulting a doctor), biotin, and essential oils.
• Derma Rolling: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that derma rolling (micro-needling) can stimulate hair growth in patchy areas. Be sure to research safe practices and use a sterilized derma roller.
• Embrace It: Ultimately, the best approach may be to embrace your natural beard growth pattern. Confidence is key, and a well-maintained but slightly patchy beardstache can still look great.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most beardstache issues can be resolved with proper grooming and care, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help.

• Significant Hair Loss: If you experience sudden or significant hair loss in your beard, consult a dermatologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
• Skin Irritation: Persistent itching, redness, or inflammation in your beard area could indicate a skin condition that requires medical treatment.
• Grooming Challenges: If you’re struggling to achieve your desired beardstache style or are unsure how to properly groom your facial hair, consider consulting a barber specializing in beard styling.

Conclusion

The beardstache is a versatile and stylish facial hair option that can be tailored to suit a wide range of face shapes, personal styles, and occasions. By following this comprehensive guide, you can master the art of growing, styling, and maintaining your perfect beardstache. Remember that patience, consistency, and a willingness to experiment are essential for achieving your desired look. Embrace the journey, and enjoy the confidence and style that a well-groomed beardstache can bring.