Over the years, mustaches, goatees, soul patches, and other types of facial hair have been in and out of style pretty consistently. As we know — and as many hipsters will remind you — not all mustaches are created equal. There are so many different styles to create and replicate, from the beards ache to the English mustache to a thin mustache to a Salvador Dali mustache — seriously, there’s a lot to choose from.
Based on your ability to grow facial hair as well as your facial structure and jawline, we’re here to help you determine the perfect mustache for your style. Read on to learn the right products, tools, and advice to help you bulk up your mustache game so you can look like the next Hulk Hogan.
How to Choose Your Mustache Style
When it comes to facial hair, some of us can squeeze our faces, and a full, knee-length beard just sprouts out of thin air. For the rest of us, growing a fancy handlebar Stache takes a little coaxing before shyly emerging from our upper lips. If you’re wondering how to trim mustache hair, matching your whisker-grooming regimen to your overall style and preference is the move.
The Pencil Mustache
The pencil is a classic mustache that really hit its stride in the 1920s to 1940s (think Clark Gable). This style is a thinner mustache that does not overwhelm your entire face. The trick with this look is to keep the length cut right above your upper lip and the width no wider than the ends of your mouth. The pencil is all about maintenance and keeping it as neat as possible.
How To Grow and Maintain the Pencil Mustache
The best way to get a pencil mustache is by growing out your current mustache. Once you get to a good length, use beard trimming scissors to cut your mustache hairs right above your upper lip, following the shape with precision and accuracy.
Again, the pencil width shouldn’t be longer than the width of your bottom lip and top lip, so use the scissors to maintain the growth as well. This look does require multiple days of upkeep a week to ensure the mustache hair does not cover your lip line. Additionally, not all upper lips are identical. In some cases, a thin pencil ‘stache can highlight a thin spot in your mustache growth, known as a mustache gap.
The Lampshade Mustache
You know Eddie Murphy in Coming To America (or just about any movie he has acted in)? He can rock a lampshade mustache better than most.
This particular style is larger than the pencil but still follows the same rule as the width for your face shape in that it is trimmed and rounded by the corners of your lips. The lampshade looks fantastic with thick mustaches or facial hair in general.
How To Groom and Maintain the Lampshade Mustache
Let your mustache hair grow out naturally first. Once your hair is grown to the length you desire, go ahead and trim the ends right above your upper lip, following the lip line (just like with the pencil mustache).
If you want to grow your mustache a bit thicker (so you can try other types of mustaches), check out our growth oil. This aids in growing healthier and thicker facial hair while adding moisture for smoothness. Using the PT45 Trimmer, round out the edges of the mustache by your upper lip, ensuring the hair does not extend further than the sides of the mouth.
The Chevron Mustache
The chevron mustache is a bold and thick style that has been made famous by iconic figures like Tom Selleck and Freddie Mercury. This type of mustache covers the entire upper lip and is characterized by its thick, wide appearance that follows the natural curve of your mouth.
How To Grow and Maintain the Chevron Mustache
To achieve the chevron mustache, allow your facial hair to grow out fully without trimming for several weeks. Once you have a significant amount of hair, use a good pair of trimming scissors to shape the mustache, ensuring it covers the whole upper lip and slightly extends beyond the corners of the mouth. Regular trimming and combing will keep the chevron looking neat and tidy.
The Handlebar Mustache
The handlebar mustache is a classic style known for its long, curved ends that can be styled upwards. This style is often associated with old-timey strongmen and hipsters alike.
How To Grow and Maintain the Handlebar Mustache
Growing a handlebar mustache requires patience and a bit of dedication. Start by growing out your mustache for a few months without trimming the length. Use mustache wax to style the ends, twisting them into the desired shape. Regular application of wax and combing will help train the hair to maintain the handlebar shape. For best results, use a high-quality mustache wax and a fine-tooth comb.
The Horseshoe Mustache
Popularized by figures like Hulk Hogan, the horseshoe mustache is a full mustache that extends down to the jawline, creating a horseshoe shape. This style is bold and eye-catching.
How To Grow and Maintain the Horseshoe Mustache
To grow a horseshoe mustache, let your mustache and beard grow out fully. Shave the beard, leaving two strips of hair extending from the ends of your mustache down to your jawline. Keep the hair trimmed and neat, using a trimmer to maintain the horseshoe shape. Regular shaving around the mustache will keep it looking sharp.
The Walrus Mustache
The walrus mustache is a thick, bushy style that covers the entire upper lip and often extends over it. This style is reminiscent of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
How To Grow and Maintain the Walrus Mustache
To achieve the walrus mustache, let your mustache grow out naturally without trimming for several months. Once the hair has reached a substantial length, use trimming scissors to keep it from becoming too unruly. Regular brushing and conditioning will help keep the walrus mustache looking its best.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mustache style depends on your facial hair growth, facial structure, and personal preference. Whether you prefer a thin pencil mustache or a bold horseshoe, there’s a style out there for everyone. Regular grooming, trimming, and styling with the right products will help you achieve and maintain your desired look. So go ahead, experiment with different styles, and find the mustache that suits you best.
FAQs
Q1:How long does it take to grow a mustache?
The time it takes to grow a mustache varies depending on individual hair growth rates. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to grow a full mustache.
Q2:What products should I use to maintain my mustache?
To maintain your mustache, use trimming scissors, a fine-tooth comb, mustache wax for styling, and a beard trimmer for shaping. Additionally, using beard oil can help keep the hair soft and healthy.
Q3:How often should I trim my mustache?
The frequency of trimming depends on the mustache style and your hair growth rate. Generally, trimming once or twice a week is sufficient to maintain most mustache styles.
Q4:Can everyone grow a mustache?
While most men can grow some facial hair, the density and pattern of growth can vary significantly. Some men may struggle to grow a full mustache due to genetic factors. In such cases, trying different grooming techniques and products might help improve growth.