Why It Works

The keyword here is tidy. Notice the clean edge where scruff meets skin on his cheeks, creating a groomed, refined look.The closely trimmed length gives it just enough scruff without looking unkempt.Isaac’s natural salt and pepper beard lend a unique hue that’s soft and subtle on the bold contours of his face.

How You Can Make It Work

There’s a fine line between great 5 o’clock shadow and the “I didn’t bother to shave” look. Most 5 o’clock shadow requires at least two days of stubble to really show up, but in the meantime take a razor (or electric trimmer) to your cheeks in the morning to create that clean edge. If you’re a guy with a particularly hairy neck, do the same below. To make the look permanent, instead of shaving and waiting for it to grow back, use a beard trimmer on the lowest setting–usually 1 or 2 works–and trim every few days.

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