Life

Growing out your beard in lockdown? Here are some tips on how to do it properly

You could just let it grow and hope for the best...
You could just let it grow and hope for the best... You could just let it grow and hope for the best...

IF YOU want a respectable-looking beard, you can't just ditch the razor and hope for the best. Here are some tips to make sure it grows out healthily during lockdown...

DON'T WASH IT TOO MUCH

To ensure your beard and the skin underneath are well hydrated and cared for, wash your beard as often as you deem necessary, though two to three times a week, using a beard wash, is usually plenty says Simon Bang of Copenhagen Grooming.

As with the hair on your head, much of your beard's health comes down to taking care of the skin underneath. Make sure your beard is kept moisturised and conditioned, says barber Myles Lewis. "I would recommend using a shampoo and conditioner for ultimate shine and frizz-free results," he says. This should also prevent dirt from clogging up the skin.

He also recommends investing in a beard oil to help moisturise the hair. This will also "keep stray hairs unified and also moisturise the skin".

COMB IT REGULARLY

Lewis recommends combing your beard daily, as this will help keep it detangled. It will also make your beard look fuller and, if you use a beard oil, will help distribute the product evenly. A wooden comb is best to prevent static build-up. Start underneath your beard and work your way up and out. Once this is done and your beard looks healthy and full, use the comb to style the hair as you want.

LEAVE YOUR NECK

Growing out your beard – especially if you've never done it before – can initially feel quite weird. You might be tempted to shave your neck, but Lewis advises against this. He says: "Leave that to grow out, because you will want to create a shape through your neck, but it is difficult to see your own neck line. You will more likely create a shape you don't want, and it could result in you having to shave the whole beard off."

EASIER TO EAT

"Style rather than cut," is Lewis's advice, though he suggests "using scissors to trim your hair from your top lip, just to make it easier when eating".