You can shape your beard all you want, but if you don’t address the neck hair, it’ll stick out like a sore thumb. Your neckline can make or break your look. Patchy spots, gray hair, and uneven lines can ruin the hard work you’ve put into your beard, especially as you age and your hair growth slows down.
Where to Start with Neck Hair
Dealing with neck hair can be tricky due to the curves of your throat. Few necklines can escape maintenance entirely, as beards tend to creep down. Don’t be the guy whose beard blends into chest hair—it needs to end somewhere.
Maintaining your neckline is crucial, and it’s something that should be done regularly. While a long beard will eventually cover neck hair, that’s a long wait. The only reason to grow out neck hair is if you’re specifically aiming for a neck beard style. If that’s your goal, that’s perfectly fine!
So, unless you’re going for an unconventional look like Andrew Luck, it’s best to keep your neck beard under control. Regular beard maintenance includes trimming or shaving your neck hair. We’ve put together a guide to help if you’re new to the idea of maintaining a clean neckline.
Finding Your Neckline
To determine where your neckline should be, look in the mirror. The neckline is located where your jaw meets your throat, but not extending out towards your chin. Anything under your chin is important for growing a longer beard. It’s useful to understand your neckline boundaries before you start trimming, shaving, or shaping.
Hair in this area can grow in odd patterns or appear patchy. It’s also prone to acne because we often rub our necks in response to stress or nervousness, which can lead to razor burn and beard rash.
Setting Your Neckline
For a clean look, start your neckline about an inch above your Adam’s apple. The crease beneath your double chin can also serve as a guide. Another method is to trace from your earlobes down to the spot above your Adam’s apple.
If you’re going for a chinstrap look, you may want to bring the neckline up higher to achieve a thin beard look beneath your chin. For bushier beards, leaving the line a bit fuzzier can create a more natural appearance.
Maintaining your neckline also involves considering your side profile. Often, we forget that others view us from different angles. A well-defined neckline can significantly improve your overall look, especially from the side.
Preparing for the Trim
To achieve a clean and polished appearance, start by following your normal beard routine. Get everything in order so you don’t mess up the style you’ve worked hard to create. Begin with a warm shower to soften your beard hair and make it easier to trim.
If your beard has length, brush it out with a beard brush to detangle and prepare it for trimming. Hold off on using oil or balm until after you’ve finished trimming.
Locate the bottom of your neckline area as described. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to trim lower rather than higher. You can always trim more if needed, but it will take longer for hair to grow back if you trim too much.
Choosing the Right Tools
Selecting the right tools is essential for a precise trim. Consider investing in these items for a better grooming experience:
- Electric Trimmer: An essential tool for trimming your beard, such as the PT45 Beard and Hair Trimmer.
- Beard Brush: Great for detangling and stimulating beard growth.
- Beard Comb: Necessary for shaping, styling, and trimming.
- Beard Trimming Scissors: Useful for cutting down longer beards and shaping.
- Straight Edge Razor: For achieving a professional-grade finish.
With these tools, you’re well-equipped to maintain a neat and stylish neckline.
Maintaining Your Neckline
To achieve a clean, polished look, you need to keep your neck hair in check. Here’s how to maintain your neckline effectively:
Preparation
Start by following your usual beard routine. Make sure everything is styled the way you like it to avoid ruining your look. Take a warm shower to soften your beard hair, making it easier to trim.
Trimming Your Neckline
Identify the bottom of your neckline territory as previously described. It’s always better to trim lower rather than higher if you’re unsure. You can always trim more if needed, but degrowing hair takes time if you trim too much.
Using an electric trimmer, start by setting a reference line. For bushier beards, keep the line lower; for chinstraps, raise it higher. Always give yourself some leeway to avoid trimming off too much hair.
Creating a Faded Look
If you prefer a faded appearance, begin with a longer guard on your trimmer. Gradually switch to shorter guards to trim smaller strips of hair, achieving a smooth fade on your neck.
Shaving for a Sharp Look
For a sharp, clean look, use a straight edge razor. Begin shaving from the reference line, curving it towards your ears. This creates a clean, defined edge. When lining up your beard at the jaw corners, you can choose between square or rounded corners. A square corner suits oval and oblong faces, while a rounded corner complements a sharp jawline.
Finishing Touches
Double-check your work to ensure everything is even. Rinse your face and neck with warm and cold water before patting dry. Apply a moisturizer, beard oil and balm to finish the grooming process.
Tips and Tricks
- Keep Your Beard Soft: Start with a clean beard and avoid rough drying. Use a soft towel or let it air dry to prevent discomfort and dryness.
- Make a Reference Line: A clear reference line helps you avoid cutting too much. Keep it thin and clean up any stray hairs after trimming.
- Trim Before Shaving: Get your beard as short as possible before shaving to prevent nicks. Trim with the grain to avoid irritation.
- Maintain Your Fade: Fading requires regular upkeep. If you choose this style, be prepared for consistent maintenance.
Conclusion
The more you practice trimming your neckline the easier it will become. Confidence is key when it comes to beard grooming. Take your time, be cautious not to cut too much, and remember that a well-maintained neckline can significantly enhance your overall appearance. Whether you’re new to beard grooming or an experienced pro, maintaining your neckline is essential for a polished look.
FAQs
Q: How often should I trim my neckline?
A: It depends on how quickly your beard grows and your preferred style. Generally, trimming every 1-2 weeks helps keep your neckline neat.
Q: Can I use regular scissors for trimming?
A: While regular scissors can work, beard trimming scissors are designed specifically for the job. They provide more precision and control.
Q: How do I avoid razor burn when shaving my neckline?
A: To minimize razor burn, make sure your beard is clean and soft. Use a sharp razor and shave with the grain. Avoid pressing too hard and use a soothing aftershave.
Q: What if I make a mistake and trim too much?
A: If you trim too much, the hair will take time to grow back. In the meantime, you can adjust your style to accommodate the new length or consider using beard oils to help the hair grow back faster.