If you already have a beard, you can trim it down to a 5 o’clock shadow whenever you like. If you’re clean shaven, wait about 2 days for enough stubble to grow in (it might take more or less time depending on your genetics).
A well-groomed 5 o’clock shadow can contour your face and give you a rugged look that’s great for date night or everyday activities, too. Go into job interviews clean shaven (it will always be considered a more professional look) and then try out facial hair once you’ve secured the job. Clear and healthy skin, tidy hair, and a sharp outfit make a 5 o’clock shadow look more dashing, stylish, and presentable.
When in doubt, wait longer than you think you need to. You can always trim the hair shorter if it’s too long for your liking.
Exfoliate before any facial hair maintenance, whether you’re trimming a 5 o’clock shadow or preparing to shave totally clean, to reduce skin irritation.
Keep a light wrist and don’t push too hard—let the electric trimmer do the work for you. Purse your lips together to flatten out your mustache area for easier trimming. Aim to keep your mustache hair the same length as your beard hair. [5] X Research source
If you have a rounder face, try a straight cheek line at a steep angle to lengthen your face. If your face is long or angular, try a curved cheek line to soften the contours of your face.
Be extra cautious and use a light touch when you’re using an electric trimmer on your neck. Regardless of your stubble length or style, a neck beard will detract from the rugged look of your 5 o’clock shadow. Try not to go all the way up to the jawline. This looks good on some people, but the majority of guys look better with a slightly lower neckline.
Since the hair is so short, you most likely don’t need beard oil or other facial hair products to keep your beard clean and healthy.
Clean, healthy skin elevates the look of your 5 o’clock shadow and makes it look more stylish and professional.
Patchiness is largely genetic and there’s no one-size-fits-all way to fill in a beard. Be patient and keep your skin healthy to encourage thicker growth.
