Going for a bald head with a beard is a bold look that can suit many men. But when you shave your head and keep your beard, determining where your beard starts can be confusing for some people. You want to make sure the transition is seamless.
This guide will let you master the art of defining the boundary between your shaved head and your beard.
Deciding Where to Start Your Beard Line
The most crucial aspect of keeping a beard with a shaved head is choosing where the beard starts. Standard beard lines may not apply since there’s no hair to act as a natural transition.
Here are some general rules for determining where to start your beard:
Ear Level
Your beard should start around the same level as your ears. This boundary is typically right where the top of the ear connects to the head. To find this spot, you can use the top of your ear canal as a reference point. From there, draw an imaginary line over to the area where your beard begins. This line is approximately where your beard line should start.
However, for those gentleman with glasses, you might want to consider starting your beard a little bit lower, just below the earlobe. This is because glasses can distort where the beard line appears to start, and having it begin a bit lower will provide a more natural look.
Furthermore, some people also find this lower beard line more comfortable as it can help to avoid the annoying feeling of hair getting caught in spectacle frames.
Mid Ear Level
This is another common starting point for beard lines. Very similar to the ear-level approach, the mid ear method involves taking the mid-point of your ear as the reference point instead of the top.
This option brings a more balanced look between your bald head and the beard, especially for those with longer face shapes. But remember, everyone’s face is unique, so you may need to adjust the beard line slightly to best fit your features.
Below the Cheekbone
For some men, starting the beard below the cheekbone can provide a balanced look. This technique brings out the facial features by framing the face in a way that accentuates the cheekbones. To find where to start your beard, draw an imaginary line from the top of your ear to the corner of your mouth. The area below this line is where your beard should start.
This style of beard is popular for men with square or round faces as it helps to elongate the face and create a more oval appearance. Additionally, starting the beard below the cheekbone can give off a rugged and masculine vibe.
However, it’s important to remember that a beard starting below the cheekbone needs proper maintenance. Keep it well-groomed and trimmed to avoid an unkempt look.
Personal Preference
While the above rules are helpful, they are not set in stone. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to where you should start your beard line when bald. Much of this decision will come down to personal preference, face shape, and your particular beard style.
You might prefer your beard line to start higher or lower, to feature a sharp line or a faded transition, or to make your face look broader or thinner. It’s your beard, and your rules, so long as you’re happy with your appearance.
Tips for Maintaining Your Beard Line
Once you’ve decided where your beard line should start, you must keep it maintained to preserve its clean, sharp look.
Trimming Regularly
Your beard has to be regularly trimmed to maintain its shape and keep a neat appearance. It’s recommended to trim your beard every two weeks, with smaller touch-ups in between if you see uneven areas.
Using Beard Products
Regular use of beard products such as oils, balms, and conditioners can help to keep your beard healthy and manageable. They not only moisturize your beard and the skin beneath it but also provide a gentle hold for shaping and styling.
Visiting a Professional Barber
While one of the biggest selling points for bald men with beards is the ability to maintain it yourself, visiting a professional barber can have its advantages. They can provide expert advice on keeping your beard looking its best.
Additionally, they can give your beard a thorough trim and shape it perfectly according to your specifications. It might be beneficial to visit a barber regularly, perhaps once a month, for a professional grooming session.