Phase
/feɪz/
‘A distinct period or stage in a series of events or a process of change or development.’
Just like anything that changes or grows, beards have phases too. Although all men are different, beard hair generally grows by half an inch every month and consist of these 5 stages.
Stage 1: The Stubble (Week 1-2)
The stubble phase is between week 1 and 2 of growing a beard. At this point, you are either clean shaven or have the ‘5 o’clock shadow’ which is very little hair around your lip, sideburns and jawline.
At this stage, you may notice some ingrown hair because your hair is growing from the root. This can be frustrating and may tempt you to shave. Don’t. You may also start experiencing the famous new growth beard itch. This is usually because the trimmed facial hair growing back is sharp. Conditioning the skin and the beard with Mandevu Beard Oil will make the facial hair softer and less prone to irritating the skin.
Stage 2: The Patch (Week 3-4)
This is an apt name for this stage. Your hair will grow in patchy, meaning you will notice some parts of it are longer than others.
You will also be tempted to shave at this point. Wait. Continue using beard oil to condition and moisturize your beard.
Stage 3: The Short Beard (Week 5-6)
At this point, the patches will start to fill in and you will notice some length. As we mentioned before, all men are different and some men could have thicker, fuller hair by this stage.
This is a good time to pick out your beard style. You will be able to see if you look better with a shorter beard or if you could benefit from some more length.
If you have no idea how to choose a beard style, check out our next article. We got you.
Stage 4: The Growth and Grooming (Week 7-9)
If you were not taking your beard care routine seriously before, this is the stage where you will need to change that.
Your beard is basically full at this point and it will require more time and attention. You should wash your beard once or twice a week (with a beard wash), moisturize and condition with beard balm and beard oil and lastly, comb and brush your beard.
Stage 5: The Full Beard (Week 10+)
The full beard stage, also known as the accomplishment stage. At this point, you have been through it all – the itching, the confusion about your style, the awkward patches. But, you made it. Now all you need to do is keep taking care of your beard and enjoy every part of having that full, healthy beard.
Always remember to keep track of your growth stages and take some pictures and videos for reference and motivation as you grow.
Mandevu’s got your journey!
Words: Ciku Kimani
