For many, growing a full beard is a rite of passage, a sign of masculinity and maturity. Beards also help men optimize the shape of their face and provide an opportunity for individual expression. But how long does it take to grow a full beard, and what are the different stages of growth along the way?
How Long Does it Take to Grow a Full Beard?
On average the answer to how long it takes to grow a full beard is two to four months. However, the amount of time varies from person to person, as genetics, age and other factors can affect the rate of hair growth.
In this blog, we will look at the different stages of beard growth, what you can expect in each stage and how best to help the process.
The Different Stages of Beard Growth
During the first few weeks, your beard may look patchy and uneven as the hair follicles begin to sprout. This is a normal part of the process, and you should resist the urge to trim or shape your beard too early. Instead, give your new beard time to fill in and grow naturally.
As your facial hair grows longer, you may also experience some itching and discomfort as the hair follicles pull at the skin. This is another normal part of the process, and you can alleviate it by using a beard oil or balm to moisturize and condition the hair and skin.
As you grow your beard, you'll likely experience several stages of growth, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges. Here are the four stages of beard growth, along with tips on how to care for your beard during each stage.
Stage 1: The Stubble Stage
The stubble stage is the first stage of beard growth and usually lasts for the first week or two. It is a bit more than 5 o'clock shadow but not yet a beard.
During this stage, your beard will be short and prickly and may be patchy and uneven. You might also feel some itching and discomfort as the hair follicles begin to sprout.
To care for your beard during the stubble stage, use a beard oil or balm to moisturize and condition the hair and skin. This helps alleviate itching and discomfort and helps soften and condition the hair as it grows.
Stage 2: The Short Beard Stage
The short beard stage typically lasts from two to four weeks. During this stage, your beard will begin to fill in and look more substantial.
This is the stage where to start again idea whether you think your beard looks good on you and whether or not you want to keep it. However, it may still look patchy and uneven in some areas.
To care for your new mane during the short beard stage, continue to use a beard oil or balm to moisturize and condition the hair and skin. You may also want to start using a beard brush or comb to help shape and style your beard as it grows.
This is also where you will want to start trimming your beard in order to keep it looking good during the growth process.
It’s an individual choice whether you prefer an electric trimmer or quality beard trimming scissors. Beard trimming scissors often recommended for this stage because they can be more exact and trimming very small sections and single hairs that might be sticking out from the rest.
As you start trimming your beard, we also recommend you use the By Jove Beard Hair Catcher to keep your sink clean and eliminate the hassle of picking beard hairs off your sink.
You can, of course, trim your beard without a beard hair catcher. But the easier and quicker it is for you to groom your beard, the more likely you are to continue the process of growing a full beard and the maintenance that goes with it.
So check out our beard hair catcher before you finish the blog. It will make your beard life a lot easier.
Stage 3: The Medium Beard Stage
The medium beard stage usually lasts from four to six weeks, and during this stage, your beard will begin to look fuller and more even. At this stage, you now have a legit beard. And there are some who stop at this stage.
Depending on genetics, age and other factors you may continue to have some patchy and uneven areas. It is also the same which your beard is not long enough to start developing tangles and knots, which you will want to make sure to eliminate.
To care for your beard during the medium beard stage, use a beard oil or balm to moisturize and condition the hair and skin, and use a beard brush or comb to help shape and style your beard.
Sandalwood Beard Combs are particularly recommended once beards start growing out because the natural sandalwood material moves through your beard more easily than plastic. This allows you to more easily work out the tangles that sometimes develop.
You may also want to trim any stray hairs or uneven areas to help keep your beard looking neat and tidy.
Stage 4: The Full Beard Stage
The full beard stage is the final stage of beard growth, and it usually lasts from six to twelve months or longer. During this stage, your beard will be fully grown and thick and will require regular grooming to keep it looking good.
To care for your beard during the full beard stage, continue to use a beard oil or balm to moisturize and condition the hair and skin, and use a beard brush or comb to help shape and style your beard. You may also want to trim your beard regularly to maintain its shape and prevent split ends.
In addition to the four stages of beard growth, it's important to note that some men experience different growth patterns or rates of growth depending on their genetics and other factors. Some men may also have difficulty growing a full beard due to hormonal imbalances, medications or other health conditions.
If you're having trouble growing a full beard, don't be discouraged. There are many products and techniques available to help stimulate hair growth and promote healthy beard growth, including beard oils, supplements and specialized grooming tools.
It's also important to remember that growing a full beard is not just about growth rates, but also about patience and perseverance. Growing a full beard requires dedication and commitment, as well as a willingness to accept the ups and downs of the growth process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing a full beard can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it takes time, patience and commitment. By understanding the different stages of beard growth and using the right products and techniques, you can help ensure that your beard grows in healthy, even and full.
Remember to take care of your beard at every stage of growth, and to be patient and persistent as you work towards your desired beard style. With a little time and effort, you can achieve the full, healthy, and well-groomed beard of your dreams.