How to Trim (and Tame) a Curly Beard

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How to Trim (and Tame) a Curly Beard

Whether you embrace your curls or struggle to control them, a curly beard provides a certain fullness that many guys without curls would love to have. That said, your curly beard does require a little extra TLC to ensure it is looking and feeling the best. Consider this your guide on how to tame your curly beard.

1. Trim your Curly Beard

Curly hair can have a mind of its own, which means some beard hairs are going to stick out. This can give the appearance of an unkempt beard. To keep your curly beard looking tidy, trim it at least a few times per week. Simply grab your Wahl trimmer with your preferred guide combs and move down your beard.

For a less rounded look: use a shorter guide comb for the sideburns and cheeks and a longer guide comb around the chin.

For an all-around tidier look: use a shorter guide comb throughout.

2. Daily Washing Helps

Proper beard care starts with daily washing. And curly beards are no exception. In fact, curlier beards tend to dry out faster. To keep your curly beard feeling healthy without stripping away natural oils, use a beard wash designed for beards.

3. Soften With Beard Oil

Once you’ve patted your curly beard dry after a good wash, dab some beard oil in the palm of your hand and rub it into your beard. It should immediately feel softer. If there are any areas that are still coarse, dab a little more.

4. Brush Away Tangles

Curly beards tend to tangle more easily so routine brushing can help remove any knots. Brushing after applying beard oil will make it easier to move through the hair and help distribute the oil evenly through your beard. Use a boar bristle brush and move downward, making sure you are not pulling or snagging hairs as you go.

5. Style Your Curls 

For a fuller style, use your fingers to scrunch your beard hair. This will keep it at its curly best. For a straighter, less curly look, use a beard comb with wide teeth and work your way down. Move slowly, so not to damage your curls. This will add length to your beard while giving it a wavier appearance. Finish off by adding some beard balm to help hold your beard’s longer, wavier look in place.

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Your Curly Beard Questions:

Why is my Beard Curly?

Genetics has a lot to do with whether your beard is curly or not. Beard hair follicles are also larger and more twisted than follicles on your scalp, which contributes to curlier beard hair.

How Do I Straighten my Curly Beard?

If your beard hair is curly, the safest, healthiest way to reduce the curliness is to use a beard brush or comb to straighten your beard hair. Finish by using beard balm to hold your beard in place.

How Do I Properly Wash Curly Beard Hair?

Curly beards are often drier and coarser, which means they require natural oils and moisture to keep them healthy. Use a beard wash that will not strip away natural oils and helps to condition the hair to keep it softer.

How Do I Detangle Curly Beard Hair?

Start by using a beard softener or beard oil to soften your curly beard. Then use a beard brush or comb to remove knots.

What are the Best Curly Beard Styles?

Guys with curly beards can enjoy the many beard styles that those without curls sport. However, there are three great curly beard styles you could try:

  • Garibaldi Beard - This big and bold choice allows those natural curls to come out in a big way.
  • Full Beard – A full beard that features an even trim all around for a clean look.
  • Tight Beard – A shorter, tight look that keeps those curls at bay.

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