new thread
Hi everyone,
The number of guys starting or re-starting beards has really grown lately. I'm 22 days in to my first ever beard, and it is certainly a new experience, hope it doesn't make me look too mean or anything! I plan to let it thicken up and lengthen a bit more, but I am trimming the neckline.
I am seeking a couple of opinions. I was wondering if you guys think my beard suits my face, it is a look I have never experienced before and it is certainly a novelty, but I actually like it myself. I certainly don't want to look mean or anything, however.
The second opinion is regarding the colour. Jeffrey posted a great update below, he is colouring his, however his natural colour is all gray and his beard is more visible with the added colour, Bruce also posted an update with the full natural look, his is looking truly awesome in its natural glory, thick and full.
I still have close to 75% of my natural colour, with some gray. Do you guys think I should colour or keep it natural? I tend to be one who likes to let nature takes its course, so I will probably let it be natural, complete with salt and pepper! My moustache is lighter than the beard.
Any opinions are appreciated! (And I am still contemplating a middle part for my hair, but that's another story)
PS to Oren, if you see this post, please make it my avatar, if not, I'll email the picture to you separately.
David
I actually think it looks cooler with the grey areas. Have you tried shaving off the moustachio and just going for the beard?
Thanks Erik, my inclination is to keep everything natural for now, I'm not a great fan of changing what nature gave me. As for the moustache, as it tends to grow slower anyway, I plan to give it some time before making a decision on whether or not to shave it off, I still feel the beard is more complete with the moustache.
All the best,
David
Hey there David, based on this pic and your avatar without the beard, I think the beard definitely suits you.
As long as you maintain a good neckline I think it'll be really awesome with a bit more growth. Based on my experience, at about 6 weeks growth you'll have a good idea if the full beard is right for you.
Have you suffered from any itching yet?
Hi Chad, thanks for the compliments! I am liking the look right now, I am definitely looking forward to how it fills in with several more weeks of growth. I have been very fortunate, no itching to speak of so far.
All the best,
David
David,
The beard looks great, and I'd vote for keeping it the natural color.
What I find amazing is this: in only about three weeks you were able to give yourself a whole new look. Assuming you're going for a shorter beard, you could try out all sorts of shapes and variations over the course of six months. I'm certainly not advocating doing anything you don't want to do, but I would think you have more room to play with beard styles (that involve trimming) than hair styles. Not to mention the added bonus of doing this yourself so there no chance of a stylist turning a "half inch off the bottom" into a short, thinned-out, layered cut.
And think, as you focus on your beard...the rest of your hair keeps heading for you belt. :-)
Keep it growing,
Mouse
Thanks so much, Mouse, for the kind words. I tend to like the "natural look" as far as colour goes, why change what nature gave you? It's only if I get a lot of comments indicating I should change it that I would even consider that, but so far, everyone has indicated to keep it the way it is. My preference right now is definitely the full beard, but kept neat, I will let it fill in and get a bit longer, but not excessively so. It's true, during the beard experimentation, my head hair is not the total focal point anymore, but I am still keeping an eye on it and hopefully it WILL reach my belt!
All the best,
David
Hi David,
Your beard is looking great!
Here is Oren's e-mail address. I'll put in the image that we use on the site so spambots don't pick it up:
The forms that allow you to mail a user don't include attachments, and you want to send him a picture, although you could tell him what message your photo is posted in, of course.
There are a lot of colors in your mane and in your beard. The color of your mustache also shows up in your eyebrows. If you start dyeing parts of that, the dyed part is going to look monochromatic while the undyed part will be a rainbow of colors. It will look, well, "dyed". [grin]
Dyeing a beard can look good if one's hair and eyebrows are still all dark, but that is not your situation. Dyeing a beard is also a lot of work because the roots become visible right away, unlike with dying one's mane. People who see you regularly will all see the roots at one time or another, so everyone will know you are dyeing it, too. Multi-colored hair is so much more beautiful than monochromatic hair, and you are lucky to have it. I'd stick with natural!
As for the mustache, removing it while keeping a full beard comes off a bit "Amish" and few guys go for that. You can always try it though to see how it looks both ways. A mustache will grow back quickly since the hairs in it are not that long.
I know one of your thoughts behind the beard is to minimize the appearance of having a long neck. It is definitely helping with that! You can also experiment with lengths on the chin to see which length works best for that. The best way to do that is to overgrow it until it is obviously too long and then just trim it back a little at a time until you get the look you want.
It all looks great!
Happy growing!
Bill
Thanks Bill for all the positive comments! I really did not have any serious intentions of dyeing, it's just that Jeffrey's update looked so good that I posted to solicit opinions, I may have considered it if a lot of comments came in that I should dye it. I always felt that the natural look was best, and it would be pretty obvious if I showed up at work with a different colour anyway, most of my co-workers like it, and I have not seen any co-workers in my workplace dyeing theirs. Besides, I thought Bruce's update was wickedly awesome in it's natural glory, and your gray beard is a true inspiration as well.
As for the moustache, for now I plan to keep it. Somehow, I feel more "complete" with both the beard and the moustache.
Thanks again Bill, and for being a true inspiration, it was you who kick started me on this new journey, I DO like it!
David
David, I would keep the beard and see how it goes. If you ever do decide to use colour, it's no big deal, it's quick and easy.
I know that you have mentioned the "part" a few times, however, I don't understand why a part down the middle would be so bad.
My hair is a tad bit thin at the crown, but the average individual would never know it, because, before I get to the crown I comb the hair straight back, thus, making the hair in the crown area look much thicker. Never part all the way to the crown, unless the hair is very thick. Even if MPB isn't present, fine hair will allow the scalp to show through.
The other day I was in line behind a beautiful young woman and she parted all the way to the crown and even though she had awesome hair, she looked rather thin around the crown area. She didn't have MPB/DUPA, but her hair was baby fine.
Bless her little heart.
Jeffrey.
Thanks, Jeffrey, I do plan to keep the beard for now, I do like the look. As you and I have similar hairlines in front, a middle part may not look all that bad on myself, perhaps I will give it a try, it seems very successful in your case. (It was the front hairline I had more in mind when considering a middle part, I wasn't sure which part disguised my slight recession better. Perhaps in my next hair update, I'll use a middle part.
All the best,
David
You don't look mean in the slighest. No way. Anything but.
As for colour, guess that would be up to you when all is said and done.
In any event, that is alot of progress for only 22 days. Perhaps wait-out the full month as more growth will give you a better idea to make a decision.
Thanks Justin, my own feeling is to let things be for now, the majority of the guys here seem to think I should let the natural look prevail. I am definitely looking forward to your beard update!
All the best,
David
Both your hair and beard are coming along great. Personally, I would wait a while on colouring. The salt & pepper look can be very attractive.
Lookin' Good !!
WWT
Thanks Walter, I think I will keep the natural colour, I still think it's best to let nature be as far as the beard goes. (although I do admit to taking medication for hair loss, however)
All the best,
david
Hey David - First thanks for referring to my pic in your post...you're too kind. Also, as I said, I think it "softens" your features giving you a more (how do you say) mellow/approachable appearance. No, I don't think it makes you look mean. As for coloring I agree with others who have said it is easy enough to try it out and if you don't like it wash it out. As for me, if I started coloring my hair(s) I wouldn't know where to stop! LOL - Be The Budda - Bruce
Thanks again Bruce, my friend. I have pretty well decided to go "au natural" for now as I have a lot of co-workers with beards, and none of them dye. I am definitely looking forward to another month of beard growth! Well, I guess it's time to email Oren and get the avatar changed!
Keep 'er growing,
David
Hi David,
Firstly, I'm loving the beard. I think it looks fantastic. Since you're asking for opinions, I would say to keep it on the short side.
My strongest opinion, however, is very much a pro-center part one. I think it makes your hair look really full and just aesthetically looks better. Just my two cents. Regardless, your hair is looking awesome and I'm proud of you that you're becoming the 'real' you...the longhaired one.
Jason
Hi Jason,
Thanks so much for the kind words. My beard plans are probably very similar to what you suggest, I don't plan to grow it excessively long, but want it as thick as possible. I have really been thinking seriously about the middle part, I did not put it in this post as I really was emphasizing the beard in this update, changing the part in this post would have distracted from the main objective of my post, seeking beard comments.
I plan to try a middle part, and will probably include that in my next hair update. It's true, I really do feel like a longhair now, I can't wait for belt length, I PRAY I get there!
All the best,
David
I very much like the look of your new beard, David! But, then again, I am shamelessly pro-beard on just about EVERYONE (lol)!!
To me, long hair and beards are just as compatible as:
- cream & sugar
- salt & pepper
- peanut butter & jelly
- pizza with cheese
- crackers with soup
- popcorn with butter
- pie a la mode
- salsa y guacamole
..... the list can go no & on!
Seriously, though, the beard looks hands-down GREAT on you!!
- Ken
Thanks so much, Ken, your reply is totally AWESOME. All those words are so much fun, you have really made my day!
All the best,
David
your beard is looking good for 22 days and there is nothing wrong with the color of it.do keep it and your mane growing
Thanks Ron, for the compliment on my beard. I plan to keep the colour "au natural" for now, that seems to be the feeling of most everyone here.
All the best, keep your fur growing,
David
Looks good.
I notice a slight resemblence to former stooge man Iggy Pop.
Vince
Thanks Vince, thanks for the compliment. I have to say the hair certainly looks like the style Iggy Pop wore, right down to the side part and the length, although I an seriously considering going to a centre part. Strangely, earlier today, I was told I resembled Neil Young, another great rock icon, especially in my home country of Canada.
All the best,
David
Hi David...your beard is coming in nicely! I'm really digging it! As for coloring: my opinion is to keep it natural. Wear your natural colors proudly. And keep it up...the beard is really working for you.
~G
Thanks Gman, for the kind words, I do intend to keep the natural look for now. In fact, when I started, I had no idea what colour would come in, I am rather pleased that I still had so much dark hair, but I think a little gray actually adds some character.
I have to say your beard that you posted a picture in reply to Absalom's update is is TOTALLY awesome, so thick and with such a great colour. I only hope mine comes in as thick, although I will probably not grow it as long. I'm looking forward to your next hair update.
Keep it grwoing,
David
Absolutely, the gray definitely adds character. I've mainly got a brown beard but I've always had a patch of blond in the mustache and chin area since I was a teen. I've also got streaks of red in there as well (It's the Irish part in me). I used to hate the blonds back in my 20's and really just wanted a nice full all-brown beard. But, it's not going to happen and, in fact, I've become very fond of the multi-colors. I get compliments about it's uniqueness from time to time. It's who I am so it's all good.
I have to comment: I'm very impressed that you've gone this far your first try. I've known people to give up after a few days or a week. Congrats to you! Living with a beard for a while is the only way you'll know if it's for you or not. So good job on sticking to it!
And thanks for your kind words about my beard as well. I've had one for almost 16 years now. It's definitely a part of me and something I'll always have. Sometimes it's shorter (1/2" or so) and sometimes longer (up to 3-4 inches). But, I've always wanted a nice long beard at least once in my life so I set a goal back in December to grow it out all year and see how I like it.
Anyway...looking good, David. Take care...
~G
Thanks again, Gman,
Actually, I should consider myself lucky. Many guys have warned me to expect itching, etc., when growing my first beard but I have experienced NONE so far. Also, any negative comments from family, friends, co-workers, etc. have been nearly non-existent, as opposed to a lot of good ones, making the journey smooth sailing all the way! I definitely plan to keep it!
All the best,
David
Hey David,
The beard is definitely coming along.
This picture would certainly make a great avatar as it shows how much your hair+beard have progressed. Keep em' both growing david and please keep us updated. By the way, Any luck finding the Mane N Tail you were looking for?
All The Best
chris
Thanks so much, Chris, my friend, I really appreciate your kind words about the hair/beard, I have already emailed Oren to change my avatar.
I have looked everywhere for the Mane and Tail, but I haven't had any success. However, I have altered my hair care routine slightly, and will probably not need the Mane and Tail. I still find conditioners with cones (not Pantene though!) seem to work best for my hair (I did not like the feel of my hair with cones free conditioners), but the best thing I have discovered recently is the benefit of a clarifying shampoo once weekly to remove buildup, that means I can use the cones without the buildup that can occur.
All the best, I really appreciate all your support,
David
Hey Dave,
time for an avatar change me thinks..:))
IMO,you look much better with a beard,and I think you should keep the salt & pepper.However,there is room for experimentation if that's what you want,beards aren't like scalp hair after all :)).All the best..
-Jacob(who's update is comin up in a few days :)) )
Thanks Jacob, I definitely plan to keep the salt and pepper, the opinion of most people here seem to confirm that, I am going to let Mother Nature do what she will.
I am REALLY looking forward to your update, CAN'T WAIT!!! (and don't forget the bedhead photo!)
All the best,
David
David, I think the beard is off to a great start and will look good with your hair.
Just let it grow in thick, and in it's natural color, for a while . You might have some ideas after you've gotten used to the new you for a while.
Enjoy the new journey!
- Oren
Thanks Oren, for the kind words, I am really enjoying the new journey. I definitely plan to keep it in its natural colour, and am looking forward to it getting thicker. Keep up the great work with your magnificent beard!
All the best,
David
(P.S. I got your email, I'm looking forward to my new avatar, and thank you!)
Hi David, Your beard is coming along quite nicely and the color looks good too, I say you should wait for it to get a little longer before deciding if you wanna color it or not. Keep it growing it looks really good so far. Also, I'm looking forward to seeing what a "planned" middle part would look like:P. Keep the hair and the beard growing!
-Mihnea
Thanks, Mihnea, for the compliments! I definitely plan to keep the natural colour, the opinions of pretty well everyone here are pretty unanimous. As for the middle part, I am seriously thinking of switching, I will probably have one in my next hair update.
I just saw your update is further up the page, I'm going to have a look right now!
Keep it growing,
David
Looks great David. I don't think the "mean" look is possible on you. I'd say leave your beard natural, as it adds character.
Take care,
Bruce
Thanks, Bruce, I definitely plan to let Mother Nature do her thing for now.
All the best,
David
David, I think it is coming on nicely, I actually think a loooong beard would suit you, and definately don't colour it - be natural.
Hey and there is nothing wrong with looking mean!
Thanks to another Dave!
I definitely plan to keep it natural for now, it's preety unanimous that must people say to keep it that way. I'm still not committed to a long beard at this time, but I really want the thickest possible.
All the best,
David