So, you’ve got a narrow face and you’re thinking about growing a beard. That’s awesome! But choosing the right style can be tricky. A poorly chosen beard can actually accentuate the narrowness, making your face look even longer. The good news is that with the right style, a beard can add width and balance to your features, making you look more handsome than ever.
The key is to add width visually. Think about creating the illusion of a wider face. We’ll explore several styles that achieve this effect, considering both beard length and shape.
Styles to Avoid (Generally)
Before we dive into the good stuff, let’s quickly discuss styles that might not be the best choice for narrow faces. Long, thin beards that follow the natural lines of your face can actually make it look even more elongated. Similarly, very short, neatly trimmed beards might not add enough visual width to make a significant difference.
- Very long, thin goatees
- Short, neatly trimmed stubble that doesn’t add volume
- Extremely narrow beards that follow the jawline closely
Beard Styles That Work Wonders
Now for the fun part! Here are some beard styles that are perfect for adding width and definition to a narrow face:
The Full Beard (with strategic shaping)
A full beard is a classic choice, but the key here is shaping. Avoid a perfectly symmetrical, neat beard. Instead, let the beard grow slightly fuller on the sides, creating a wider look. Keep the length moderate to avoid making your face appear longer. A well-groomed full beard that extends slightly wider than your jawline will work well.
The Well-Groomed Short Boxed Beard
This style involves keeping the beard short and well-groomed, but with a slightly wider, boxed shape on the cheeks. This creates visual width and adds definition to the jawline. Make sure the sides are fuller than the area below your chin.
The Balanced Short Beard with Sideburns
Connecting your beard to your sideburns adds width and a sense of balance. Keep the beard and sideburns fairly short and well-maintained for a neat, stylish look. This can make your face look more proportionate.
The Rounded Beard
A rounded beard shape, especially at the bottom, can visually soften the length of a narrow face. It adds a bit of softness and visual width around your chin and jawline.
Maintaining Your Beard
No matter which style you choose, proper beard maintenance is crucial. Regular washing, conditioning, and trimming will keep your beard looking its best and prevent it from looking unkempt, which could accentuate a narrow face.
Experiment and find what works best for your face shape and personal style. Don’t be afraid to try different looks! A good barber can offer valuable advice and help you achieve the perfect beard for your features. Remember, the goal is to add visual width and balance to your face, making you look and feel your best.