Combining tapered sideburns with a beard is a popular grooming style that adds sharpness and sophistication to any look. Whether you’re aiming for a clean and professional appearance or a more rugged vibe, this combination can be tailored to suit your personal style. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about achieving, maintaining, and perfecting tapered sideburns with a beard.
What Are Tapered Sideburns?
Tapered sideburns are sideburns that gradually change in length, starting longer at the top near the hairline and getting shorter as they reach the bottom near the ears. This style creates a smooth transition between the hair on the scalp and facial hair, resulting in a clean, modern look. Tapering involves blending the hair, giving a subtle fade that complements various hairstyles and beard lengths.
The Appeal of Combining Tapered Sideburns with a Beard
The combination of tapered sideburns with a beard adds depth and definition to your facial features. It can make your face look more structured and balanced, while also providing a polished and refined appearance. This style works for almost any occasion, whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a day out.
Understanding the Different Styles
High Taper vs. Low Taper Sideburns
- High Taper Sideburns: These sideburns start fading higher up, closer to the temples. They offer a more dramatic look, ideal for those who want a distinct separation between their hair and beard. High tapers work well with short hairstyles or buzz cuts.
- Low Taper Sideburns: This style features a fade that begins lower, near the middle of the ears. It offers a more subtle and natural transition from the hair to the beard. Low taper sideburns are perfect for those who prefer a more understated look or have longer hairstyles.
Classic Beard Styles with Tapered Sideburns
- Full Beard with Tapered Sideburns: A full beard paired with tapered sideburns creates a strong, masculine look that’s both stylish and versatile.
- Short Boxed Beard: For a more refined style, a short boxed beard with tapered sideburns offers a clean and well-groomed appearance.
- Stubble Beard: Even a light stubble can benefit from tapered sideburns, adding a touch of sharpness to the overall look.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Face Shape
- Round Face: opt for high taper sideburns to create the illusion of a longer, slimmer face.
- Square Face: Low taper sideburns work well to soften angular features.
- Oval Face: Almost any style works well with this balanced face shape.
- Oblong Face: A medium taper with a fuller beard helps to balance the length of the face.
Benefits of Tapered Sideburns with a Beard
Enhancing Facial Features
Tapered sideburns with a beard can highlight your best facial features. The taper creates a natural contour, framing your face and drawing attention to your jawline and cheekbones.
Achieving a Balanced and Polished Look
This style provides a seamless blend between your hairstyle and facial hair, resulting in a well-balanced and polished look. It adds structure and helps maintain a neat appearance.
Low Maintenance Grooming Benefits
While tapered sideburns require some initial effort to achieve, they are relatively low maintenance. Regular touch-ups keep the style sharp, and the gradual fade means that regrowth is less noticeable.
How to Achieve Tapered Sideburns with a Beard
Tools You’ll Need
- A high-quality trimmer with adjustable guards
- Scissors for precise cutting
- A comb to help guide the trimming
- Beard oil or balm for conditioning
- A mirror with good lighting
Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- Prep Your Beard and Hair: Start with clean, dry hair and beard Comb through to remove any tangles.
- Determine Your Taper Line: Decide where you want the taper to begin – high near the temple or low near the ear.
- Trim the Sideburns: Use a trimmer with the desired guard length to create the taper, starting from the top and working downward.
- Blend the Taper: Use a shorter guard to gradually blend the sideburns into the beard. Make smooth, even strokes for a seamless transition.
- Shape the Beard: Trim and shape the rest of your beard to complement the tapered sideburns.
- Finish with Detail Work: Use scissors to snip any stray hairs and refine the edges.
Tips for Shaping and Blending
- Always start with a longer guard and gradually move to shorter lengths to avoid cutting too much.
- Use a comb to guide your trimmer and create an even fade.
- Blend the taper into the beard slowly, checking frequently to ensure symmetry.
Maintaining Tapered Sideburns and Beard
Daily Care Routine
- Clean and Condition: Wash your beard and sideburns regularly to keep them clean and soft. Use a beard conditioner or oil to maintain moisture.
- Comb and Brush: Regularly comb your beard to prevent tangling and keep the hair aligned.
Trimming Tips and Frequency
- Trim your tapered sideburns every 1-2 weeks to maintain the fade.
- Use scissors to trim stray hairs between full trims to keep the look sharp.
Recommended Products for Maintenance
- Beard Oil: Keeps the beard soft and hydrated.
- Trimmer: A quality trimmer with multiple guard lengths is essential.
- Beard Comb: Helps in styling and maintaining the beard shape.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Tapering or Under-Tapering
Avoid creating too sharp a contrast by over-tapering, which can look unnatural. Under-tapering can make the style look unfinished.
Not Considering Face Shape and Hair Type
Choose a taper style that complements your face shape and hair type. Different face shapes require different taper lengths and styles for the best look.
Using the Wrong Tools or Products
Invest in high-quality tools and products specifically designed for beard care. This ensures a smooth, precise trim and proper maintenance.
Inspiration and Style Examples
Celebrity Looks Featuring Tapered Sideburns with Beard
- David Beckham: Often sports a tapered sideburn with a medium-length beard for a polished yet rugged look.
- Chris Hemsworth: Combines a high taper with a full beard for a masculine style.
Trendy Styles to Try in 2024
- Low Taper with Stubble: Ideal for a modern, clean look.
- High Taper with Medium Beard: A stylish choice that suits most face shapes.
Customer Testimonials and Before & After Photos
Many people find that adding tapered sideburns to their beard style enhances their overall look and boosts confidence.
Conclusion
Tapered sideburns with a beard provide a unique and versatile style that enhances your facial features, adds structure, and offers a clean, modern look. By choosing the right taper style for your face shape and beard type, you can create a balanced and polished appearance that works for any occasion.
FAQs
Q1:How Often Should I Trim My Tapered Sideburns?
Trimming your tapered sideburns every 1-2 weeks is ideal to maintain the fade and keep the style looking fresh. The frequency may vary depending on your hair growth rate, so adjust as needed to ensure the taper remains sharp and even.
Q2:Can I Achieve This Look at Home or Should I Visit a Barber?
Yes, you can achieve tapered sideburns with a beard at home using the right tools and techniques. However, if you’re new to grooming or want a more precise look, visiting a professional barber is a good idea. A barber can help you perfect the style and give you tips for maintaining it at home.
Q3:What Beard Styles Pair Best with Tapered Sideburns?
Tapered sideburns work well with various beard styles, including full beards, short boxed beards, and stubble. The key is to choose a beard style that complements your face shape and the length of your taper. For example, a full beard with a high taper creates a bold look, while stubble with a low taper offers a more subtle, clean appearance.
Q4:What Tools Do I Need for Tapered Sideburns with a Beard?
To achieve tapered sideburns with a beard, you will need a high-quality trimmer with adjustable guard lengths, a comb, a pair of sharp scissors for precise cuts, and beard grooming products like oil or balm to keep your beard soft and healthy.
Q5:What Should I Do If I Make a Mistake While Tapering?
If you accidentally cut too much or unevenly, don’t panic. You can adjust by tapering slightly higher or using a shorter guard length to blend the mistake. If the error is significant, consider visiting a barber for professional help to fix the look.