Beard Man-tenance

[averyprog]

So i've got a beard.

It's a pretty cool beard I suppose. Nothing too fancy or decorative, just a nice, pleasant Hairy Face w/ clean cheeks and neck.

I've just started DE shaving, and am really thrilled by the whole situation. My question is about what to do about beard trimming. What do i need to do to trim my beard all to the same length?? At the moment i do a sort of "floating shave" where i sort of make all my facial hair stand up by tousling it, and then shave about a 1/2" away from my face, nicking off the long hairs while leaving the deep beard intact.

Is there a tool I need to complete my task? I hate electric razors, and this whole DE thing has me stoked on the tried and true techniques. Or should i just invest in a nice pair of scissors and be done with it.

I apologize if i'm posting something thats already laid out somewhere clearly, but honestly i can't seem to find the place to start!

Thanks everyone!

[dpm802]

Hate to tell you, but I think the best tool for this job is going to involve electricity ... get yourself a beard trimmer made specifically for this purpose.

I use a pair of Andis clippers about every 2 weeks on my goatee. It does a decent job. Quick, easy, and (almost) foolproof.

You can find cheaper brands like Conair / Remington / Norelco in drugstores and department stores, but these won't last very long. Go to a Barber/Beauty supply store and look at what's being offered by companies like Wahl or Oster or Andis. You can expect to spend upwards of $50, but they will last a lifetime.

Get one that runs on AC if possible. The battery operated models tend to be cheaper, but don't have as much cutting power. Get several blade guards, too, if you like to keep your beard a little longer in winter, and shorter in the summer.

Once you have the tools, maintain them. Keep them clean and oiled up on a regular basis. Learn how to adjust the motor so the blades don't chatter.

When you feel the need for a trim, get your beard clean first, and then absolutely dry. Comb it into shape, and then run the clippers through Against the Grain. Remove the blade guards and use the bare clipper to trim around the mouth, the bottom of your moustache, and around the edges.

[LinuxMintyFresh]

I'm going to have to side with DPM. You're either going to need an electric beard trimmer or really learn to use a pair of scissors. The only other option you might have is a manual beard trimmer/hair clippers. They're pretty much the same thing as an electric, but with maybe a little more dexterity and forearm strength required.

[DE Shaver]

Beard trimmers are convenient and fault tolerant but a pair of scissors from Clubman or Colonel Conk will do the job nicely. If decide to go the scissors route, you'll have to cut your beard in small amounts. It's a lot of work and is more time intensive but the results can be great as you have enhanced control. On the other hand, a trimmer with comb will give you good, consistent results without a lot of work.

[Dennard]

get yourself a beard trimmer made specifically for this purpose.

+2. I use a wahl beard trimmer.

[damooshki]

I agree with getting a beard trimmer. But if you really prefer to use non-electric methods, check out this video on youtube. fast forward to 3:55. I'm sure it may take a little practice but it might be worth it. BTW those razors are only a few bucks at Sally's.

[averyprog]

Yeah, ive been poking around, and though I should get a nice pair of scissors in either case, looks like a beard trimmer might just be the right tool for the job.

[bradyarz]

i use a hair trimmer, but yeah, same purpose.

[TheRuckus13]

I wouldn't go as far as to say Ostor will last a lifetime. I have a couple and even after regular maintenance they're still falling apart. They're only two and a half years old too.