The 5 o’clock shadow beard has been around for the longest of time. However, it has experienced a certain spike in interest in the past couple of years. If you, too, have been attracted to the idea of getting yourself a 5 o’clock shadow beard, then all you need to do is stick around till the end of this article as we detail all the tips and tricks you need to get the perfect 5 o’clock shadow beard.
What is the 5 o'clock shadow beard?
The meaning of this beard style can be derived from its very name. Men with particularly aggressive hair growth know that a clean-shaven look can turn into a stubble by the end of the day.
When someone deliberately styles their beard to look like that end-of-the-workday growth, it is known as the 5 o’clock shadow beard. This style is characterised by very short hair, clean necklines and a stylishly unkempt look.
This style was very popular in the 80s and has made a successful come back in the recent years. If you are someone with a darker shade of beard colour and have an oval or long face, you might want to give this shadow beard a shot.
How to get the perfect 5 o’clock shadow beard?
• Step 1: Get the working length
Before you do anything else, it is important to reach the appropriate length that lets you work with ease. Ideally, it should be the length that allows you to see if there are any thin patches but also gives you enough hair to play around with, as you trim.
For some people it can mean having to grow out their beard for a few days and for someone else it can mean trimming some length off. Braun’s Series XT5 and the All-in-one MGK7331 Trimmer are excellent choices for the pre-style and, also the actual trim.
The Series XT5 Trimmer offers multiple comb lengths, with 4 combs dedicated just to your face. You can choose one of the longer combs for this step and achieve the right length with which to work. Since the comb works both ways, up and down, the trimming time is much lesser.
The All-in-one MGK7331 Trimmer also offers multiple combs with up to 13 different length settings. What makes this stand apart is the AutoSensing technology that works according to your specific hair type. This ensures a smoother and more effective trim.
• Step 2: Get trimming
Once you can see what you want to achieve and how to go about it, it is time to choose the final length and start the trim. For the best results, work your trimmer from the longest length hair to the shortest length. Always move against the hair growth and repeat wherever you feel necessary.
When you choose something like Braun’s MGK7331 All-in-one or 10-in-one MGK7221 Beard Trimmer, you do not have to worry about getting an even length. Their Auto Sensing Motor adapts itself according to your hair type to give you a smooth and even trim.
• Step 3: Get the shape
Once you are happy with the length, it is time to move onto the shaping part. With the 5 o’clock shadow beard, the shape is not extremely styled. It resembles a shadow beard minus the unkempt or unruly edges with wiry hair sticking out.
You can gently decrease the length as you move towards the edges, giving it a more natural but tidier look. Avoid very straight lines or edges as it can dampen the effect. The All-in-one series trimmers by Braun offer versatile functionality which includes everything that you might need to achieve the perfect 5 o’clock shadow.
• Step 4: Get the neckline
With the 5 o’clock shadow beard, the neckline is an area that needs definition. The neckline with this style is clean, edgy and defined. Use tools like Braun’s Precision Trimmer PT5010 for precision trimming and get a clean line where your shadow beard ends. Then, go ahead and shave the bottom half of it for a clean finish.
• Step 5: Get moisturised
Once you have achieved the desired size and shape of your beard, it is time to give it some conditioning. Apply your favourite aftershave/balm to keep your skin and facial hair looking healthy and hydrated.
5 O’ Clock Shadow vs Stubble - How are they different?
The simplest way to compare 5 o’clock shadow beard and a stubble is that the former is a more deliberate and stylised version of the stubble. The stubble can look unruly and have wiry edges or an undefined neckline. This, however, is not the case with the 5 o’clock shadow beard.
The 5 o’clock shadow beard looks more intentional and organised, thanks to its clean neckline, defined shape and even look. It also requires considerable upkeep especially for those whose beard grows faster than the others.
Dos and Don’ts for the perfect 5 o'clock shadow
Here is a list of things to keep in mind when aiming for the perfect 5 o’clock shadow beard:
Do’s
Choose the right, multi-purpose beard trimmer. Braun’s BT5260 Beard Trimmer, MGK7221 and MGK7331 are all great all-in-one options
Aim for an even trim throughout the beard
Make the edges less defined by gradually decreasing the length of the hair near the edges
Shave beneath the neckline
Don’ts
Don’t use blunt blades for trimming
Do not let the beard grow out too much before you retouch it
Don’t forget to moisturise after trimming and washing
Takeaway
The 5 o’clock shadow beard is a great way to give off an effortlessly stylish vibe without being too out there. All you need to know is how to get it and what to use for the best results. The rest is timely upkeep, and you have for yourself the best kept beard. The best part is that it looks right at home in both professional and casual environments.