Removing a beard with clippers is a straightforward process that allows you to control the length or remove the bulk before a clean shave. It's an essential step for many grooming routines.
Preparing for the Trim
Before you start, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
- Electric Clippers/Beard Trimmer: Make sure it's charged and clean.
- Clipper Guards: A set of different guard lengths is crucial.
- Mirror: Good lighting is also important.
- Comb: To detangle hair.
- Cape or Towel: To catch trimmed hair.
- Brush: For cleaning the clippers.
Choosing Your Clipper and Guard
Clippers come with various guards, each corresponding to a specific hair length. Starting with a longer guard is always recommended, as you can go shorter if needed, but you can't add hair back.
| Guard Number | Approximate Hair Length |
|---|---|
| #0 | Bald/Clean |
| #1 | 1/8 inch (3 mm) |
| #2 | 1/4 inch (6 mm) |
| #3 | 3/8 inch (9 mm) |
| #4 | 1/2 inch (13 mm) |
| (Higher numbers offer longer cuts) |
The Trimming Process
Follow these steps to remove your beard using clippers:
- Start with a Longer Guard: Attach a guard that is longer than the final length you desire (or the shortest you plan to go initially). This is a safety net.
- Trim the Bulk: Begin trimming against the grain of the hair growth. This helps the clipper cut the hair more effectively. Work systematically across your entire beard area.
- Progressively Shorten (Optional): If you want a very short look or are preparing for a clean shave, switch to progressively shorter guards, repeating the trimming process each time until you reach the desired length.
- Define Edges: Use the clippers without a guard (or with a very short guard like #0 or #0.5) carefully to define your neckline and cheekline. Imagine the desired lines and carefully trim the hair outside them.
- Trim Sideburns: According to the reference, when trimming sideburns, use your jawline as a guide. Follow the bottom of your jaw, and you can point your finger right to your earlobe as a marker for your sideburns' length or endpoint.
- Detail Areas: Trim areas like the mustache and soul patch, using smaller guards or the edge of the blade for precision if needed.
- Shave Close (If Desired): If your goal is a clean shave, use the clippers without a guard (carefully!) to get as close as possible, removing the stubble. Then, proceed with a wet shave using shaving cream and a razor for smoothness.
Finishing Up
Once the trimming is complete:
- Brush or rinse away loose hairs.
- Clean your clippers thoroughly using the brush provided and follow the manufacturer's instructions for oiling.
- Rinse your face with cool water and apply an aftershave or moisturizer.
Tips for Success
- Always trim on dry hair. Wet hair can clog clippers.
- Trim in good lighting so you can see clearly.
- Go slowly and take your time, especially when defining lines.
- Stretch your skin taut in tricky areas like the neck or jawline.
