You’d think that growing a beard is as simple as not shaving. Whilst that is technically correct, there are of course a few rules and/or tips which you can abide by to help you get your face-fuzz looking at its best. The last thing you want is to come across as a sloppy weirdo or dare I say it, bergie, due to poorly groomed facial hair. Follow these four simple beard-rules and you’ll certainly come across as the strapping specimen of a man who you are.

1. GIVE YOURSELF SIX TO EIGHT WEEKS

Don’t touch your beard during this period. Just let it grow. There’s no point trying to trim and style something which isn’t there yet. This is the toughest period as there is a certainty that you will end up looking like the unkept weirdo mentioned above. It’s worth it though and is a necessary part of the entire process. Suck it up.

2. PICK YOUR STYLE AND STICK WITH IT

Whether it’s Gerard Butler from 300, Ryan Gosling in The Notebook or Ryan Reynolds from The Amityville Horror – all personal favourites – or whatever look catches your fancy, stick with it. Styles can vary from face to face but go with something which suits you and which you are comfortable in. Messing around with different styles can result in you having to revert back to the above mentioned point. Don’t go there.

3. KEEP IT CLEAN

Having a beard doesn’t mean you can forget about the hair on your face. It actually requires constant maintenance. There are always stray hairs who reckon they can buck the trend and do their own thing. Get rid of those guys. Your neck and cheeks will always need to be kept clean, no matter your chosen style.

4. USE A RAZOR 

When trimming your neck and cheeks, you may be tempted to use a set of hair clippers rather than a razor. Yes clippers are easier to work with and yes it doesn’t require you using any shaving cream but nothing cleans up your beard-style like a razor does. Don’t be fooled, a razor will polish off the look.

Four simple steps to get you through the jungle and looking good. Follow them and you’ll be rocking your Leonadis in no time. It’ll take some sacrifice up front but just remember the good ol’ cliché ‘no pain, no gain.’ Good luck out there

You stay classy,

NR