How to Taper Your Beard: the Complete Guide to Achieving a Stylish Fade (2024)

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To taper your beard, start by washing and brushing it.

Trim your beard and mustache to the desired length, shaving below the neckline.

Next, use beard trimmers with adjustable guards to gradually fade the sides and cheekline.

Trim 1 inch above the jawline, then another inch in the direction of the sideburns, moving up in 1-inch increments with shorter guards.

Blend the top into your haircut.

For symmetry, follow your facial structure.

Regular maintenance is key to an enviably tapered beard.

Want to elevate your skills? Keep going for expert tips on neckline shaping, blending techniques, and the best tools.

How to Taper Your Beard?

To taper your beard, first trim the sides and sideburns with progressively shorter guard lengths as you move up towards the temples. Then, trim the neck area with a lower guard number, working against the grain in a 1-inch strip at the collarbone. Blend the faded sides and neck into the longer beard on top for a smooth gradient fade.

10 Best Beard Trimmers for a Gradient Fade

To achieve a seamless gradient fade, you’ll need the right tools. Top beard trimmers like Braun’s kit, Wahl’s Peanut, and BabylissPRO’s SkeletonFX allow for precise trimming and blending. Accessories like Kent’s comb, ZilberHaar’s brush, and a compact speaker make the process more enjoyable and groomed.

Braun’s Trimmer Kit

Braun’s trimmer kit provides a robust performance for achieving a fashionable beard fade.

Its sturdy design guarantees extended use, while the affordable cost makes it accessible.

With features such as adjustable guards and a precise trimmer, you can effortlessly contour your cheek lines and blend sideburns for a professional appearance.

You can find Braun trimmers at most stores for easy accessibility.

Wahl’s Peanut Trimmer

Wahl’s Peanut Trimmer is a budget-friendly option that delivers. Its compact, ergonomic design makes it easy to handle, while its durability guarantees lasting performance. This versatile tool is ideal for trimming your beard and creating a stylish fade. With Wahl’s Peanut Trimmer, you can achieve salon-quality results at home.

• Affordable price point
• Compact and lightweight
• Durable construction
• Versatile for beard trimming and fading

BabylissPRO’s SkeletonFX Trimmer

The BabylissPRO SkeletonFX Trimmer is a high-performance cordless tool that delivers professional-grade results for your fade. Its powerful motor and sharp blades make quick work of even the thickest beards. With its sleek design and ergonomic grip, you’ll feel like a barber as you expertly trim and style your beard to perfection.

Gillette Styler Beard Trimmer for Men

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The Gillette Styler is a versatile 3-in-1 beard trimmer, shaver, and edger that lets you easily master any style with one precision tool. Its Braun-engineered technology delivers an even trim, close shave, and crisp edges.

With three exchangeable comb attachments for consistent length and contour adaptability, the Styler caters to different hair lengths and styling needs.

The waterproof design allows for both dry and wet use, adding convenience to your grooming routine.

The ProGlide Razor Blade Refill glides effortlessly across your skin, providing a close, comfortable shave without irritation.

The Gillette Styler is a fantastic option for those seeking a reliable grooming tool that combines precision, versatility, and ease of use.

Best For: Men who take their grooming seriously and seek a versatile and precise grooming tool.

Bevel Cordless Beard Trimmer for Men

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The Bevel Cordless Beard Trimmer is a sleek, black tool that packs a punch.

With its rechargeable battery and 6-hour runtime, you can trim your beard anytime, anywhere.

The zero-gapped, tool-free adjustable blades are professional-grade, allowing you to achieve the perfect fade.

At just 1.57 pounds, this trimmer is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

Measuring 3.5 x 3.88 x 8.25 inches, it’s compact enough to fit in your grooming kit.

Positive reviews praise its design, blade sharpness, and value.

If you’re looking for a reliable, cordless trimmer to help you achieve a stylish gradient fade, the Bevel is a solid choice.

Best For: Men seeking a professional-quality, cordless beard trimmer for precise beard maintenance.

Kent Apsley Fine Tooth Wide Tooth Comb

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The Kent Apsley Fine Tooth Wide Tooth Comb is a must-have for any bearded gentleman looking to achieve a smooth, even fade.

Crafted by the oldest brush manufacturer in the world, this comb boasts a saw-cut design for a seamless glide through your facial hair.

Its cellulose acetate construction is non-petroleum based, ensuring a gentle touch on your skin.

With a compact 5.4-inch size, this comb fits perfectly in your pocket, making it ideal for on-the-go touch-ups.

Stimulate your scalp and hair cuticles while reducing static with this versatile tool.

Achieve a professional-looking fade with the help of the Kent Apsley Fine Tooth Wide Tooth Comb.

Best For: Bearded gentlemen seeking a smooth, even fade.

Beard Brush by ZilberHaar

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The ZilberHaar beard brush is a must-have tool for any man serious about his facial hair.

Crafted with 100% natural boar bristles, this compact brush exfoliates your skin, promotes healthy beard growth, and tames unruly hairs.

The pear wood handle provides a comfortable grip and a touch of class.

Whether you’re at home or on the go, this brush will keep your beard looking its best.

Pair it with your favorite beard oil or balm for a smooth, soft finish.

With proper care, this brush will last a lifetime, making it a worthwhile investment in your grooming routine.

Best For: Men with short to medium length beards who want to exfoliate their skin, promote beard growth, and tame unruly hairs.

Compact Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

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Pair your trimmer with a compact Bluetooth speaker to set the mood and stay motivated while grooming your beard.

Look for a speaker with a long battery life, clear sound, and easy pairing.

Place it near your mirror and crank up your favorite tunes or podcast to make the process more enjoyable.

A portable speaker allows you to move around freely without getting tangled in cords.

Elevate your grooming routine and achieve a professional-looking fade with the help of a reliable Bluetooth speaker.

Best For: Those seeking precision trimming for both face and head.

Precision Trimmer (PT45 Beard and Hair Trimmer Recommended)

The PT45 beard and hair trimmer is a precision tool that helps you achieve a stylish fade. With its sharp blades and adjustable settings, you can easily create a gradient from your beard to your cheeks. Maintain your beard fade with regular trims and a consistent beard care routine. The PT45 is a must-have for any man seeking a well-groomed look.

1. Adjust the PT45’s settings to create a gradient from your beard to your cheeks
2. Use the PT45 to maintain your beard fade with regular trims
3. Incorporate the PT45 into your beard care routine for a well-groomed look

Preparation for a Gradient Fade

Before crafting your gradient fade, make certain you’ve washed and brushed your beard thoroughly. Trim your beard and mustache to your desired length, carefully shaping the neckline above your Adam’s apple and shaving below it, while also defining your cheekline.

Wash and Brush Beard

Before you commence sculpting your beard for a fashionable fade, it’s paramount to commence with a pristine, well-manicured foundation.

Cleanse your beard with a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to eliminate any impurities, sebum, or residue.

Gently blot your beard dry and employ a bristle brush to shape your facial hair in the intended direction.

This preparatory grooming step ensures your beard is adequately hydrated and primed for the subsequent stage of your metamorphosis.

Trim Beard and Mustache to Desired Length

Now that your beard is clean and brushed, it’s time to trim it to your desired length. Use the guard length that corresponds to your ideal taper length. Trim evenly, maintaining a consistent length throughout. Adjust guard lengths as needed for an even, tapered look. Proper trimming is key to achieving your perfect beard style.

Trim Neckline Above Adam’s Apple

Trim the neckline just above your Adam’s apple using a precision trimmer. Create a U-shaped line connecting your ears, pointing the trimmer teeth down or using a scooping motion. Trim with the cutting edge pointing up toward your jaw for a clean, defined neckline. This step is essential for achieving a professional-looking gradient beard fade.

Shave Below Neckline

Now it’s time to shave below the neckline for a clean, defined appearance. Use a sharp razor and shaving cream to remove any stray hairs on the neck. Shave downward from the neckline to your jawline, following the natural curve. This will create a smooth change and help the fade blend seamlessly into your jawline.

Trim Cheekline

To trim your cheekline, use a guard one number below your typical beard length. Trim a 1-inch strip along your cheekline, using the next lower guard for the bottom half of the strip. This creates a subtle gradient. Aim for symmetry on both sides. Adjust the angle and length to suit your face shape and desired style.

Fade Technique

To achieve a stylish fade, start by trimming about an inch above your jawline with a shorter guard setting on your trimmer. Then, move about another inch toward your sideburns and repeat the process, trimming upwards in 1-inch increments until the sideburns seamlessly blend with your haircut.

Trim 1 Inch Above Jawline With Shorter Setting

Start by setting your trimmer to a shorter guard length than you used for your beard.

Holding the trimmer perpendicular to your jawline, trim a one-inch strip above your jawline.

This will create the foundation for your fade.

Blend the edges of this strip to avoid harsh lines.

Make sure there is a smooth change into the longer beard hair.

Adjust your trimmer setting as needed to achieve the desired fade effect.

Trim Another Inch Towards Sideburns

Now, trim another inch in the direction of your sideburns using a shorter guard length.

This will create a more noticeable fade effect.

Be sure to maintain the same angle and use precise trimming techniques for a smooth blend.

Carefully check the length and adjust as needed for your desired finished appearance.

The key is to gradually shift from shorter to longer hair.

Repeat Process, Moving Up in 1-inch Increments

To create a seamless gradient, repeat the process, moving up in 1-inch increments. Use progressively shorter guard lengths on your trimmer. This allows you to gradually blend the fade starting point with the desired gradient length. Proper beard preparation and trimmer selection are key to achieving a professional-looking result. Stick to the 1-inch increment size for best results.

Continue Until Sideburns Blend With Haircut

Keep fading upwards with progressively shorter guard lengths until the sideburns seamlessly blend into your haircut. Experiment with guard selection to achieve the ideal gradient visibility. Comb through to check for any uneven patches and trim stray hairs with scissors for a polished look. Visit your barber for a professional touch-up to maintain your stylish fade.

Blending

Smoothing is the secret to creating a flawless, refined fade in your beard.

After creating the fade with your trimmer, it’s time to smooth out any abrupt lines or jagged changes.

Use a comb to identify areas that require additional attention, and gradually trim upward with a shorter guard to blend the margins.

Work in small segments, moving from the neckline to the cheeks.

With some practice and patience, you’ll become an expert in smoothing for a perfectly tapered beard that will draw attention.

Mustache Trimming

Now that your beard is trimmed to perfection, it’s time to tackle your mustache.

Use the edge of your trimmer blades to carefully shape and style your ‘stache.

Trim the ends to your desired length and shape, whether you prefer a classic handlebar, a dapper chevron, or a sleek pencil mustache.

Groom your mustache regularly with a comb to keep it looking sharp.

Avoid letting it grow too long or unruly – keep it well-maintained for a polished look.

Finish by applying a touch of mustache wax or balm to tame flyaways and add shine.

With a little practice, you’ll be a mustache-trimming pro in no time!

Starting a Gradient Fade

To start your gradient fade, you’ll need at least 2-3 inches of beard growth, and a quality beard comb is essential to achieve even, neat lines. Establish your baseline by determining where you want the longest part of your beard to begin; this starting point will guide the gradient flow.

Beard Growth Required

To achieve a stylish beard fade, you’ll need to let your beard grow out to your desired length. This provides a solid foundation for the gradient effect. Pay attention to your neckline height and cheek line angle as you trim, using progressively shorter guard sizes to create a seamless fade from your beard to your skin.

Beard Comb

A good beard comb is essential for grooming your facial hair. Consider combs made from materials like wood or cellulose acetate. Use your comb to:

1. Spread beard oil evenly
2. Guide hair growth direction
3. Tame flyaways

Regularly clean your comb with a soft brush. Proper comb maintenance guarantees a smooth, tangle-free beard. Try out various comb-based styles like the side part or pompadour to discover your signature look.

Regular Beard Care Routine

Maintaining a regular beard care routine is key to keeping your facial hair healthy and styled. Wash your beard with a gentle cleanser, condition it with a nourishing balm, and brush it daily to distribute natural oils. Trim stray hairs and shape your beard as desired. Proper hydration and grooming will guarantee your beard looks its best.

Beard Hydration	Beard Health	Beard Styles	Beard Care	Beard Grooming
Beard oil	Reduces itch	Tapered	Washing	Trimming
Beard balm	Prevents split ends	Shaped	Conditioning	Brushing
Beard butter	Promotes growth	Styled	Moisturizing	Styling
Beard serum	Softens hair	Maintained	Grooming	Shaping

Starting Point for Gradient

To commence your gradient fade, you’ll require these essential components:

• Beard growth of at least 1-2 inches
• A precision trimmer with adjustable guards
• A beard comb to separate and style your facial hair
• Patience and practice to master the technique

Initiate with a longer guard on your trimmer and progressively decrease the length, seamlessly blending the shift for a refined, tapered appearance.

Beard Trimming

Start by attaching a trimmer guard that matches your desired full beard length. Use that longer guard setting to trim and even out the areas you want to keep at maximum beard thickness. This will create a well-defined foundation for your fade.

Start With Typical Beard Length Guard

To start, use a guard that matches your typical beard length. This will serve as the foundation for your fade. Consider factors like beard thickness, texture, and type when selecting the guard size. A well-maintained beard is key to achieving a clean, professional look. Let’s move on to creating the longest part of your beard next!

Beard Length	Beard Care	Beard Thickness
Short	Wash	Thin
Medium	Brush	Average
Long	Oil	Thick

Create Longest Part of Beard

To create the longest part of your beard, start by trimming the hair on your chin and cheeks to your desired length using a guard that matches your preferred beard style. This establishes the shape and gradient start point for your tapered beard. Adjust the guard length based on your facial structure and desired beard shape.

Neck Trimming

For the neck area, use the next lower guard number from the one used for your main beard length. Trim against the grain, creating a 1-inch strip at the neckline, and use a guard that’s half the size for the bottom half of that strip to eliminate the neck beard completely.

Use Next Lower Guard Number

To taper your beard’s neckline, use the next lower guard number. This will create a smooth shift from the shorter neckline to the longer beard. The key is to select the right guard, trim in the proper direction, and consider the grain for a seamless blend. Mastering these techniques will give you a professional-looking fade.

Guard Selection	Trim Direction	Grain Consideration	Blending Techniques
Next lower guard	Upward	With the grain	Gradual shift

Trim Against the Grain

To create a clean neckline, trim against the grain using a lower guard number. This removes excess neck hair and defines the border between your beard and skin. Blend the change seamlessly by gradually fading to a shorter length. Proper trimming is key to achieving a polished, professional look with your gradient fade beard style.

1. inch Strip at Neckline

Now, trim a 1-inch strip along your neckline. This defines the shape and height of your fade. Use the clipper’s bare teeth or an outlining trimmer to create a clean, crisp line. Angle the trimmer slightly upwards for a flattering neckline shape. Regular neckline maintenance keeps your fade looking sharp and well-groomed.

1/2 Guard Number for Bottom Half of Strip

Now, switch to a 1/2 guard number for the bottom half of the strip. This will create a seamless change from the neckline to the longer beard above. Take your time and make sure the edges are clean and defined. The key is to blend the shorter hair seamlessly into the longer beard for a refined look.

Neck Beard Removed

To remove the neck beard, use a trimmer with a 1/2 guard number for the bottom half of the 1-inch strip at the neckline. Trim against the grain for a clean, defined neckline shape. Be careful not to trim too high, as this can alter the overall beard shape. Avoid pressing the trimmer too hard against your skin to prevent irritation.

Sides and Sideburns Trimming

To taper the sides and sideburns of your beard, start by using a trimmer guard that’s one or two sizes shorter than your desired beard length at the midpoint of your sideburn.

Carefully trim upwards in the direction of the top of the sideburn.

Then, use progressively shorter guards as you work your way up the sideburn, fading it into your haircut at the top quarter near your ear.

Start at Midpoint of Sideburn With Lower Guard

Start trimming at the midpoint of your sideburn using a lower guard size than your typical beard length. This shorter setting will create a smooth fade as you work your way up. Gradually increase the guard size as you trim towards the top of the sideburn to merge it seamlessly with your haircut.

Trim Upwards to Top of Sideburn

Using your trimmer at the sideburn length, begin at the midpoint of your sideburn and trim upwards toward the top. This facilitates the merging of your sideburn with the rest of your beard. Employ a guard one size smaller than your typical beard length for a seamless change. Cautiously trim upwards, adhering to the natural contour of your sideburn.

Next Lower Guard for 3/4 of Way Up Ear

Now, switch to the next lower guard for the top 3/4 of the way up your ear. This will create a more pronounced fade as you progress up the sides. Be sure to blend the hair seamlessly for a smooth passage. Proper guard selection and trimming technique are key to achieving a professional-looking fade.

Even Shorter Trim for Top Quarter

Now, use an even shorter guard for the top quarter of the sideburn area. This stubble-like trim creates a smooth flow to the fade length above. Adjust the guard size to match your desired style – a closer trim gives a more dramatic effect. Blend the edges for a seamless look that complements your face shape.

Fade Toward Hair

To achieve a seamless fade, gradually blend the trimmed sides into your hair. Use progressively shorter guard sizes, working your way up from the neckline. Experiment with different beard lengths and guard size combinations to find your perfect taper. Regular maintenance and proper blending techniques are key to keeping your tapered beard looking sharp.

• Experiment with beard lengths and guard sizes
• Use shorter guards as you work up from neckline
• Gradually blend trimmed sides into hair
• Regular maintenance is essential for sharp taper

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)