We know you don’t need a particular day to look special, but Father’s Day is a good reason to make more of an effort. In fact, we’ve got one way that will immediately give your look a lift—beard grooming. 

Gone are the days of unmanaged, dry facial hair. Don’t believe us. Do a Google search for Canadian rapper Drake. In the photos, a thick blanket of lustrous black hair spreads across Drake’s lower cheek, jaw, and chin. Tell us you’re not impressed by how well-groomed it is. 

If, while working from home, you’ve spent the past few weeks or months growing out your facial hair, why not groom it a bit? Facial hair grooming is an essential aspect of enhancing appearance—not to mention it’s a confidence booster.

The days of ‘repping’ unruly facial hair beset with split ends are over. It’s time to take your beard grooming and maintenance more seriously, and we’ve got the tips to get you started. 

Skincare is a must. Yes, your facial hair is essential, but equally, so is the skin that lies under it. Carry out proper cleansing and exfoliate your face regularly. 

Endure the patch stage. In life, the beginning stages of many things can be taxing. If you’re just starting, don’t get discouraged. Give your beard time to grow and develop into the thickness you’d like.  Don’t be dismayed by early patchiness or even beard itch.  Leave the beard alone. According to Golden Grooming Co., six weeks should result in growth that will allow you to shape appropriately. 

Trim your beard occasionally. To maintain your desired shape, you’ve got to trim it. It will also help keep your hair healthy by getting rid of split ends. Also, did we mention you’ll look more polished? 

Don’t use regular soap or body wash to clean your beard. Don’t do it. We know this may be difficult to adhere to, but you and your beard will thank us. Remember, the goal is to have healthy beard growth.  These soaps and body washes strip your facial hair of its natural oils. Some products cleanse and moisturise the hair simultaneously. We suggest you choose one of those. 

Moisturise your facial hair. Moisture prompts hair growth. This moisture occurs from oils. Unfortunately, the glands in your face don’t produce enough oil for your skin and hair. You can use beard oil to supplement the body’s natural oil production. Increasing the softness and shine of your facial hair is easy. All you have to do is moisturise your beard after you shower while it is still wet. 

Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water. Stylecraze notes that water aids in hydrating your body and regulates the circulatory system. In turn, the hair follicle is fed and stimulates growth. Water deficiency is one of the causes of dry, brittle hair. 

We know it’s been common practice to use your hair and scalp products on your beard, but no more.  Some of the chemicals used in your hair and scalp products can cause dull complexions and acne on your face. Keeping the two separate is beneficial.  

To begin your beard grooming journey, you will need a tool kit of sorts. Here are a few items you may want to add to your grooming arsenal. 

• Beard oil 
• Beard comb  
• Beard brush 
• Beard trimmer 
• Beard scissors 
• Beard wax 
• Razors 

Of course, have a chat with your barber to get advice and support on your grooming plans. 

For those shopping for dad, any of the above items or a kit may make an exciting Father’s Day present.

Visit Findyello to search your local directory listing to find a store near you.

Sources: Huffington Post, Golden Grooming Company, Style craze, and Balding Beards