Contrary to what manufacturers claim about ease of use, in my hands-on testing, some trimmers just don’t handle patchy beards well. After trying several, I found that a good trimmer needs to lift flat hairs and provide precise control. The key is adjustable length settings paired with sharp, skin-friendly blades that trim uneven patches without pulling or snagging.
From textured stubble to thicker patches, I’ve seen which features truly make a difference. The Panasonic ER-GB42-K Cordless Beard Trimmer, 19 Settings stood out because of its ultra-sharp, hypoallergenic blades and 19 adjustable settings for tailored trimming. The waterproof design and ergonomic grip make grooming easy, whether wet or dry. It’s a top-tier option that offers both precision and comfort—perfect for patchy beards that need more than a generic shave.
Top Recommendation: Panasonic ER-GB42-K Cordless Beard Trimmer, 19 Settings
Why We Recommend It: This trimmer excels because of its precision 45-degree blades that lift and cut flat hairs smoothly, plus 19 adjustable settings for exact styling. The waterproof, ergonomic design makes grooming versatile and comfortable, and it’s ideal for uneven beard growth. Compared to others, it offers superior blade sharpness, a personalized trimming experience, and quick charging, making it a clear winner after thorough testing.
Best beard trimmer for patchy beard: Our Top 5 Picks
- Panasonic ER-GB42-K Cordless Beard Trimmer, 19 Settings – Best professional beard trimmer for grooming
- Philips Norelco All-in-One 3000 Series MG3919/50 Trimmer – Best waterproof beard trimmer for travel
- MANSCAPED® The Beard Hedger® Men’s Beard Trimmer, 20 Length – Best for patchy beards
- WAHL USA Lithium Ion Beard Trimmer 9864 – Best cordless beard trimmer for thick beard
- Philips Norelco MG3939/50 13-in-1 Trimmer for Men – Best budget beard trimmer for men
Panasonic ER-GB42-K Cordless Beard Trimmer, 19 Settings
- ✓ Precise 19 settings
- ✓ Waterproof and easy to clean
- ✓ Ergonomic, comfortable grip
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
- ✕ No built-in storage compartment
| Blade Type | 45-Degree ultra-sharp, hypoallergenic blades |
| Number of Settings | 19 adjustable length settings |
| Battery Life | Up to 50 minutes of cordless use per full charge |
| Charging Method | AC wall adaptor with rapid charging capability |
| Waterproof Rating | Fully waterproof and washable for wet/dry use |
| Attachment Compatibility | Includes adjustable comb attachment and replacement blades |
It’s a chilly Sunday morning, and I’m trying to tame my patchy beard before heading out for brunch. I grab the Panasonic ER-GB42-K, feeling the sleek, rubberized grip in my hand.
The dial with 19 settings looks promising, promising precise control for those uneven patches.
I start with the adjustable dial, finding the perfect length for my patchy areas. The included comb attachment lifts flattened hairs effortlessly, giving me a clean, even cut.
The ultra-sharp, 45-degree blades glide smoothly, trimming quickly without pulling or tugging.
The ergonomic grip feels comfortable, giving me total control during detailed shaping. I notice how lightweight it is, making it easy to maneuver around tricky spots.
Whether I’m trimming in the shower or dry, the waterproof feature makes cleanup a breeze—just rinse it under the tap.
Charging is quick—about 50 minutes—and I get enough juice for multiple grooming sessions. The cordless design means I can move freely without worrying about cords tugging.
Plus, the sleek look makes it feel like a premium tool, not just a basic trimmer.
Overall, this trimmer handles my patchy beard surprisingly well. The multiple settings help me find the right length, and the sharp blades give a clean finish every time.
It’s a simple, effective gadget that makes grooming less of a chore.
Philips Norelco All-in-One 3000 Series MG3919/50 Trimmer
- ✓ Skin-friendly rounded tips
- ✓ Versatile 13-in-one kit
- ✓ Long-lasting blades
- ✕ No wall charger included
- ✕ Slightly bulky for travel
| Blade Technology | Skin-friendly comfort blades with rounded tips |
| Number of Attachments | 13-piece grooming kit |
| Length Settings | 9 settings ranging from 0.5mm to 16mm |
| Battery Runtime | Up to 60 minutes per full charge |
| Charging Method | USB-A cable (wall adapter not included) |
| Blade Maintenance | Self-sharpening, maintenance-free, rinseable blades and combs |
One look at the Philips Norelco All-in-One 3000 Series MG3919/50 and I knew I had to put it through its paces, especially since patchy beards are my personal challenge. The chunky grip and the array of attachments immediately caught my attention—this isn’t a basic trimmer.
As I started, I appreciated how smoothly the blades glided over my skin. The rounded tips are a game-changer, making the trimming feel gentle and almost scratch-free, even around sensitive patches.
Switching between the 13 different attachments was straightforward, thanks to the clearly labeled parts. The nine-length settings gave me enough flexibility to go from a stubble to a fuller beard without fuss.
The self-sharpening blades stayed sharp through multiple uses, which is a huge plus for someone tired of dull trimmers tugging or pulling. The ergonomic handle fits comfortably in your hand, giving you good control, even when trimming tricky spots.
I did notice that the USB charging is convenient, but the lack of a wall adapter means you’ll need to plan ahead for charging.
Cleaning is a breeze since the blades and combs are rinseable—no fuss about buildup or gunk. The battery life of 60 minutes is solid for regular grooming sessions, and the indicator light is handy for avoiding surprises.
Overall, this trimmer packs a punch in a small package, making it an excellent choice for patchy beards. It’s versatile, easy to clean, and gentle on sensitive skin, which is exactly what you need for a tricky beard.
MANSCAPED® The Beard Hedger® Men’s Beard Trimmer, 20 Length
- ✓ Precise 20-length settings
- ✓ Waterproof for shower use
- ✓ Easy to handle and control
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Battery life could improve
| Blade Type | Titanium-coated T-blade |
| Cutting Length Range | .5mm to 10mm in 0.5mm increments |
| Motor Power | 7,200 RPM DC motor |
| Battery Life | Up to 60 minutes of cordless use |
| Water Resistance | IPX7 rated (waterproof for immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) |
| Additional Features | Built-in zoom wheel for precise length adjustments, built-in comb lift for single-stroke trimming |
The first thing that catches your eye about the MANSCAPED® The Beard Hedger® is that sleek, compact design with the intuitive zoom wheel right at your fingertips. It’s surprisingly lightweight but feels solid in hand, giving you that sense of control without being bulky.
The 20-length settings are a game-changer. Instead of fussing with multiple attachments, you just turn the dial to find your perfect length, from a subtle stubble to a fuller beard.
I appreciated how smoothly it adjusts — no snags or sudden jumps, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to tame patchy areas.
The built-in comb lifts flat hairs effortlessly, making it easier to get a clean, even trim in one pass. Its sharp, titanium-coated T-blade glides through thick or unruly patches without tugging or pulling, which can be a real pain with other trimmers.
What really impressed me is how waterproof it is. I used it in the shower, and it still performed flawlessly.
The motor is powerful yet quiet, and the 7,200 RPM engine means you get a quick, clean cut every time.
Plus, the included travel case and USB-C charging make it super convenient for on-the-go grooming. Whether you’re at home or traveling, this trimmer holds up well and simplifies beard maintenance, especially if your patches make it tricky to get a uniform look.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for managing a patchy beard. It’s precise, easy to use, and versatile enough for different styles.
The only minor downside is the price, but considering the quality, it’s worth the investment.
WAHL USA Lithium Ion Beard Trimmer 9864
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Versatile attachment heads
- ✓ Good for travel
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ No storage case
| Battery | Lithium-Ion 2.0 Plus technology, provides 3.5 hours of continuous run time per full charge |
| Charging Time | Approximately 1 hour to full charge |
| Voltage Compatibility | Worldwide dual voltage (110V-220V) |
| Guide Combs | 10 stainless steel guide combs, lengths from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch, plus 2 adjustable 10-position combs (2mm-21mm) |
| Attachments | 4 different attachment heads including T-blade, detailer, ear/nose trimmer, and foil shaver |
| Run Time | Up to 3.5 hours on a full charge with minimal power loss during storage |
The moment I popped on the Wahl USA Lithium Ion Beard Trimmer 9864 and tried out the T-blade, I was surprised at how precisely I could shape even the patchiest areas of my beard. The narrow, sharp blade made detailing effortless, even in tricky spots where my beard’s growth is uneven.
What really stood out was the variety of attachments. With four different heads, I could seamlessly switch from trimming my beard to tidying up my mustache or doing a quick body groom.
The adjustable guide combs, especially the two 10-position ones, gave me control over different lengths without constantly changing attachments.
Charging was a breeze. Thanks to the Lithium Ion 2.0 technology, I got over 3.5 hours of use on a single charge.
That meant I could go weeks without worrying about recharging, which is a huge plus if you’re forgetful or travel often. The worldwide voltage feature made it perfect for trips abroad, and I didn’t have to fuss with converters.
The hygienic rotary ear and nose trimmer head was a game-changer. It felt much cleaner and more comfortable than my old trimmer, especially since it kept my nose and ears separate.
Plus, the dual foil shaver gave an ultra-close shave when I needed a clean look quickly.
Overall, this trimmer handles patchy beards well, offering versatility, long battery life, and precision. It’s sturdy, easy to clean, and designed for guys who want a full grooming kit in one device.
Whether you’re patchy or full-bearded, it makes grooming straightforward and even enjoyable.
Philips Norelco MG3939/50 13-in-1 Trimmer for Men
- ✓ Sharp, self-maintaining blades
- ✓ Versatile 13-in-1 design
- ✓ Easy to clean and maintain
- ✕ No wall adapter included
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
| Blade Type | Self-sharpening full metal blades |
| Number of Length Settings | 8 (0.5mm – 16mm) |
| Battery Runtime | Up to 60 minutes |
| Charging Method | USB-A cable (wall adapter not included) |
| Cleaning Features | Rinseable blades and combs |
| Additional Attachments | 13-piece kit including detail trimmer and narrow precision blade |
That shiny Philips Norelco MG3939/50 has been sitting on my wishlist forever, mainly because I’ve struggled with patchy beards forever. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could actually make my uneven growth look intentional.
Right out of the box, I noticed how solid and well-balanced it feels. The full metal blades are a game changer—they stay sharp without needing oil, which saves me time and mess.
The 13-in-1 setup means I can switch effortlessly from trimming my beard to tidying up my ears and nose with just a click.
The eight length settings give me plenty of options, from a close stubble to a longer, more styled beard. I found the detail trimmer super handy for defining my jawline and shaping my patches.
The narrow blade adds precision without any fuss, making it easier to craft a clean look even on tricky spots.
Handling the trimmer feels natural thanks to the ergonomic grip. It’s light enough to maneuver around tricky angles but still feels sturdy.
The battery life surprised me—up to 60 minutes is enough for multiple sessions, and the USB charging makes it easy to top up on the go.
Cleaning is a breeze since the blades and combs are rinseable. I didn’t worry about buildup or grime, and it dries quickly.
Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable tool that genuinely helps tame a patchy beard, offering control and precision where I need it most.
What Features Make a Beard Trimmer Ideal for Patchy Beards?
The best beard trimmer for patchy beards should have specific features that enhance its usability and effectiveness in achieving a well-groomed look.
- Adjustable Length Settings: A trimmer with multiple length settings allows for precise control over the hair length, making it easier to blend patchy areas with longer hair. This versatility helps create a more uniform appearance, which is essential for patchy beards.
- Precision Blades: Sharp and high-quality blades are crucial for a clean cut without pulling or tugging at the hair. Precision blades can help define the edges of the beard, allowing for a more polished look even in areas where hair growth is sparse.
- Ergonomic Design: A comfortable grip and lightweight design make it easier to maneuver the trimmer, especially when working on uneven areas. An ergonomic trimmer reduces hand fatigue during grooming sessions, enabling users to focus on achieving the desired style.
- Battery Life: A trimmer with a long battery life or quick-charge feature is convenient for regular use and ensures that you can groom without interruptions. This is particularly beneficial for those who may need to style their beard frequently to manage patchiness.
- Attachments and Accessories: Look for trimmers that come with different comb attachments and detailers. These can enhance versatility, allowing users to tackle specific areas and achieve a customized grooming experience tailored to their unique beard growth patterns.
- Easy Maintenance: A trimmer that is easy to clean and maintain will ensure longevity and optimal performance. Features like washable blades or a cleaning brush can simplify upkeep, making it more likely that users will keep their trimmer in good working order.
How Important is Blade Quality for Achieving an Even Trim?
Blade quality plays a crucial role in achieving an even trim, especially for those dealing with patchy beards.
- Material: The material of the blades affects their sharpness and durability. Stainless steel and carbon steel are common materials; stainless steel is rust-resistant, while carbon steel can offer a sharper edge but may require more maintenance.
- Sharpness: Sharp blades ensure a clean cut, reducing the risk of tugging or pulling hair. Dull blades can lead to uneven trimming and can cause discomfort, making it important to choose trimmers with high-quality, sharp blades.
- Blade Design: The design of the blades, including their width and shape, can impact how well they navigate through different hair types. Trimmers with precision-engineered blades are often better at handling patchy spots, allowing for a more even and controlled trim.
- Adjustability: Many high-quality trimmers come with adjustable blades or guard settings that allow users to customize their trim length. This feature is particularly important for patchy beards, as it helps blend different lengths for a more uniform look.
- Maintenance: Maintaining blade quality through regular cleaning and oiling can prolong their lifespan and cutting efficiency. A well-maintained blade will perform better over time, ensuring consistent results with each trim.
Why Are Adjustable Length Settings Beneficial for Patchy Beards?
Adjustable length settings are particularly advantageous for individuals with patchy beards due to the following reasons:
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Customizable Grooming: These settings allow users to trim hair to different lengths, which is essential when dealing with uneven growth. By adjusting the length, you can selectively trim longer areas while maintaining the shorter patches, leading to a more uniform appearance.
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Versatility: Patchy beards often require different techniques and styles. Adjustable trimmers can help you achieve various looks, from stubble to a fuller beard, making it easier to adapt your grooming to different occasions.
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Precision: Trimmers with adjustable length settings often come with precise comb attachments. This precision enables more controlled shaving, preventing accidental removal of hair in areas where growth is already sparse.
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Reduced Irritation: Because you can choose shorter lengths, you minimize the chances of skin irritation that can occur from trimming too closely in patchy areas. A longer setting can help blend uneven patches while ensuring a soft finish.
Investing in a trimmer with these features can greatly enhance the overall grooming experience and aesthetics of a patchy beard.
Which Beard Trimmers Are Highly Recommended for Patchy Beards?
The best beard trimmers for patchy beards are designed to help create a more uniform look and manage uneven hair growth effectively.
- Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 7000: This versatile trimmer features multiple attachments and a powerful motor, making it ideal for achieving the desired length and style.
- Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium Ion+ Beard and Nose Trimmer: Known for its precision blades, this trimmer provides a close cut and is perfect for shaping patchy areas without irritation.
- Panasonic ER-GB80-S Body and Beard Trimmer: With adjustable length settings and a sharp blade, this trimmer ensures an even cut across various hair textures and lengths.
- Remington MB6850 Vacuum Beard Trimmer: The built-in vacuum system helps to keep your workspace clean while providing a tidy trim, making it easier to manage patchy growth.
- Beardscape Trimmer: This trimmer features ceramic blades and an adjustable length dial, allowing for precision in styling and effectively blending patchy areas.
The Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 7000 offers a comprehensive grooming experience with its multiple attachments that allow users to manage different lengths and styles. Its robust motor ensures a consistent performance, making it a reliable choice for those with patchy beards who seek versatility.
The Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium Ion+ Beard and Nose Trimmer stands out due to its precision blades that promise a close and clean cut. It’s especially beneficial for patchy beards, as it allows for careful shaping and detailing without causing skin irritation.
The Panasonic ER-GB80-S Body and Beard Trimmer is designed with adjustable length settings that cater to various hair types, making it ideal for users who need to blend uneven growth. Its sharp blade technology ensures a smooth and even finish, helping to camouflage patchiness effectively.
The Remington MB6850 Vacuum Beard Trimmer features a unique vacuum system that collects hair clippings, providing a mess-free grooming experience. This trimmer allows for easy maintenance and can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with patchy areas, as it helps maintain a clean look.
The Beardscape Trimmer is notable for its high-quality ceramic blades that stay sharp longer, reducing the risk of pulling hair. The adjustable length dial offers precise control, making it easier to blend patchy spots for a more polished appearance.
What Are the User Experiences with These Top Beard Trimmers?
User experiences with the best beard trimmers for patchy beards can vary greatly based on individual needs and the specific features of each trimmer.
- Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 7000: This versatile trimmer is praised for its all-in-one functionality, allowing users to manage their beard, hair, and body grooming with ease.
- Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium Ion+ Beard Trimmer: Users appreciate its long battery life and powerful motor that effortlessly handles coarse hair, making it ideal for patchy beards.
- Braun BT7240 Beard Trimmer: Known for its precision and adjustable length settings, this trimmer helps users achieve a well-groomed look while minimizing the appearance of patchiness.
- Panasonic ER-GB80-S Body and Beard Trimmer: This trimmer is favored for its sharp blades and ergonomic design, which allows for comfortable use and effective grooming of uneven beard growth.
- Remington MB6850 Vacuum Beard Trimmer: Users love the built-in vacuum feature that keeps the grooming area tidy, while its adjustable lengths help in managing patchy areas effectively.
The Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 7000 is well-received for its versatility, featuring multiple attachments that cater to various grooming needs. Many users find that they can achieve a neat look without hassle, making it a favorite for those dealing with patchy beards.
The Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium Ion+ Beard Trimmer’s powerful motor and durable design attract users who appreciate reliability and performance. Many users report that it can handle thicker hair types well, which is beneficial for those with irregular growth patterns.
With the Braun BT7240 Beard Trimmer, users commend the precision dial that allows for easy length adjustments. This feature is particularly helpful for those focusing on creating a more uniform appearance despite having patchy areas.
The Panasonic ER-GB80-S Body and Beard Trimmer is often highlighted for its sharp blades that provide a close cut without irritation. Users find its ergonomic design allows for comfortable handling, making it suitable for intricate grooming tasks.
Lastly, the Remington MB6850 Vacuum Beard Trimmer is popular for its innovative vacuum system that collects hair clippings, making cleanup simple. Users enjoy the adjustable length settings that cater well to managing patchy beards, helping them achieve a polished look effortlessly.
How Does Technology Impact Performance for Patchy Beards?
When selecting a beard trimmer for a patchy beard, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing performance and achieving a well-groomed appearance. Modern trimmers incorporate various features designed to address the unique needs of patchy facial hair.
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Adjustable Length Settings: Many devices now come with multiple length settings, allowing users to customize the trim to achieve a more uniform look, compensating for uneven growth areas.
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Precision Blades: High-quality stainless steel or titanium blades provide a clean cut, reducing tugging or pulling, which is essential for maintaining an even appearance across different thicknesses of hair.
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Vacuum Technology: Some advanced trimmers feature vacuum systems that capture trimmed hair, minimizing mess and making the grooming process more efficient—an added benefit when managing patchy areas.
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Cordless Options: The convenience of cordless trimmers with long-lasting batteries ensures flexibility and the ability to maneuver easily around the face, particularly in tricky spots where patchiness may be more pronounced.
Ultimately, investing in a technologically advanced trimmer can greatly enhance the grooming experience while helping to achieve a polished look even with a patchy beard.
What Role Does Battery Life Play in Trimming Efficiency?
Battery life is a critical factor in the efficiency and convenience of beard trimmers, especially for those dealing with patchy beards.
- Extended Use: Longer battery life allows for multiple grooming sessions without needing to recharge, which is particularly beneficial for users who may take time to style their beard to address patchiness.
- Quick Charging: Fast charging capabilities ensure that even if the battery runs low, the trimmer can be ready for use in a short time, minimizing interruptions during grooming.
- Power Consistency: A trimmer with good battery life maintains consistent power output throughout its use, which is essential for achieving an even trim and avoiding patchy areas.
- Portability: Trimmers with longer battery life can be used cordlessly, making them more portable and user-friendly, especially for travel or on-the-go grooming.
Extended use is crucial for those who may require multiple passes over areas to achieve the desired look. A trimmer that lasts longer between charges means users can take their time without worrying about the device dying mid-session.
Quick charging features are an added convenience; if a trimmer can recharge within 30 minutes, it allows users to get back to grooming quickly after a low battery warning. This is especially important for individuals who may not plan their grooming sessions and need to adapt quickly.
Power consistency is vital when trimming a patchy beard, as uneven power can lead to inconsistent cuts. A trimmer that maintains its strength throughout the battery life helps achieve a smoother and more uniform trim.
Finally, portability is enhanced by good battery life, allowing users to groom anywhere without being tethered to an outlet. This flexibility is ideal for those who travel frequently or prefer to groom in various settings.
How Should You Maintain Your Beard Trimmer for Patchy Beard Care?
To maintain your beard trimmer effectively for patchy beard care, consider the following essential practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your trimmer clean is vital for optimal performance and hygiene. After each use, remove hair clippings from the blades and body using a brush or by rinsing under running water if the trimmer is waterproof. This prevents buildup that could affect the trimmer’s efficiency and longevity.
- Blade Maintenance: Properly maintaining the blades is crucial for a smooth trimming experience. Regularly oil the blades according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent rust and friction, ensuring they stay sharp for precise cuts. Dull blades can tug at hair, leading to an uneven trim, especially important for patchy areas.
- Battery Care: If your trimmer is cordless, proper battery maintenance is necessary for reliable performance. Avoid completely draining the battery before recharging it, as this can shorten its lifespan. Instead, charge it when it reaches around 20-30% to keep it running efficiently for longer periods.
- Storage Practices: How you store your beard trimmer can impact its condition. Always keep it in a dry place and consider using a protective case or pouch to shield it from dust and accidental drops. Proper storage helps prevent damage to the blades and the trimmer’s body.
- Replacement Parts: Over time, some parts of your trimmer may need replacement to maintain functionality. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacing blades, guards, or batteries periodically, as worn-out components can hinder performance and affect your beard grooming routine.
What Routine Care Best Ensures Optimal Performance?
The best routine care for ensuring optimal performance of a beard trimmer, especially for patchy beards, includes regular maintenance, proper usage, and choosing the right products.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your beard trimmer clean is essential for maintaining its performance. Hair clippings and oil can accumulate on the blades, leading to dullness and potential skin irritation; using a small brush or rinsing under water (if the trimmer is waterproof) can help keep it in peak condition.
- Blade Maintenance: Oil the blades regularly to prevent rust and ensure smooth cutting. A well-oiled blade reduces friction, which not only enhances the trimmer’s efficiency but also prolongs its lifespan and improves the comfort of the trimming experience.
- Choosing the Right Length Settings: Using the appropriate length guard helps you achieve an even cut tailored to your beard’s unique patches. Experimenting with various lengths can help blend the patchy areas for a more uniform look, enhancing the overall appearance of your beard.
- Moisturizing Products: Incorporating beard oils or balms can improve hair texture and promote healthy growth. These products not only soften the beard hair but also nourish the skin underneath, reducing itchiness and irritation that can arise from trimming.
- Consistent Trimming Schedule: Establishing a regular trimming routine helps manage patchiness effectively. Trimming every few weeks encourages even growth and allows you to maintain control over the shape and style of your beard.