Different guys grow their beards for different reasons. Some want to look more masculine or rugged while others start growing a beard to improve their dating prospects. There are probably a few guys out there who grew beards because they hate shaving. However, one reason you should consider growing one and engaging in a little beard shaping is facial symmetry.

The Telegraph defines facial symmetry as “having a face which is equal on both sides”. People with symmetric faces are deemed most attractive. Sounds simple, right? But there’s a problem. Most people don’t have symmetrical faces. In recent years, many scientists and nutritionists have argued that poor nutrition in the womb leads to asymmetrical features. So, if you don’t have a face made for Hollywood, you can thank your parents.

However, all hope is not lost. With a little beard shaping, you can present the illusion of symmetry.

Beard Shaping and Facial Symmetry

To make your face appear more symmetrical, it’s important to grow the right the kind of beard. Funny enough, even though you’re growing a beard to change your face shape, that same shape dictates the kind of beard you should grow. When it comes to grooming tips, paying attention to your natural face shape is rule number one.

If your face is circular or squared off, that means the width and length of your face are almost equal. You need a beard that’s going to add some length. However, if your face shape is rectangular or oblong, a long beard will only make your face look longer. You’ll want to keep longer sides instead to add symmetry.

Additionally, beard trimming is important for you. In your quest for facial symmetry, it’s the second most important part of the process. If you don’t pay close attention, you could trim the sides unevenly, and this will exaggerate your lack of symmetry, not improve it.

For best results, when beard shaping, take your time as you trim the sides. This means using a rather long guard on your trimmers to start with. It’s better to cut too little and spend some extra time than using a short guard and taking almost all of it off. Start off above the jaw line.

Once you’ve done what you can with the trimmer, break out the beard scissors. Then, section by section, you’ll trim off hair until you get your beard to its desired length. When all is said and done, you should have a symmetrical beard, and thus, a symmetrical face.

The Importance of Grooming

Beard trimming is nothing without beard grooming. An unkempt beard won’t look symmetrical at all if it’s weighed down with gunk. The normal beard care rules apply here. Keep beard oil in tow to keep your beard hair soft, glistening, and moisturized. It’ll also aid in keeping the skin underneath in great shape. The last thing you want is beard dandruff flaking all over your newly shaped beard.

Be sure to wash it with a beard shampoo a couple times a week. Not only will this clean out the extra crumbs and dust that you miss when you wash your face, it’ll also give you a chance to get up close and personal with your beard hair. When you shampoo and rinse, you’ll see new growth firsthand. And from there, you can determine when it’s time to trim again.

It’s crucial that you pay close attention to your beard’s length. It doesn’t take long for the hair to grow back, especially if your care routine and diet are consistent. The line between facial symmetry and lopsided features is thin.

If you’ve always wanted a more symmetrical face, your beard is the way to make it happen.