How to Grow a Goatee – From Shaving to Styling, an Expert Reveals All You Need to Know About This Classic Beard
Something of a classic, the goatee beard has found fame because it hits the sweet spot for those who find a full beard is a bit too lumberjack and a clean-shaven face feels a bit too secondary school.
Whether you’re aiming for a sharp, well-defined look or a more laid-back, scruffy vibe, the preparation is key for nailing the goatee, allowing you to get the most the most out of this great look. Here's how to grow, style and maintain a goatee according to the experts.
But first.
Are Goatees in Style for 2025?
If you're wondering if the goatee has become terribly passe, then Tevor Sorbie’s Artistic Education Director Ryan Forsythe is here to tell you that's not the case.
'The goatee is in style fo 2025 but with a modern twist,' he tells MH. 'This time around the goatee beard leans toward a well-groomed, slightly rugged aesthetic – think sharp lines with a natural finish. It works best when tailored to your face shape.'
How Far Should a Goatee Go Under the Chin?
'Ideally, a goatee should extend just past the jawline but not too far down the neck. A clean fade under the chin keeps it sharp without looking unkempt,' reveals Forsythe.
Are There Different Goatee Styles?
Yes, there are four main goatee styles, says Forsythe.
The classic goatee: This features only chin hair.
The Van Dyke goatee: Includes a detached mustache.
The anchor goatee: Shapes the beard along the jawline.
The circle beard goatee: This connects the mustache and chin hair into a rounded frame.
How to Create a Goatee
Follow Forsythe's step-by-step guide for growing a goatee beard.
If you’re starting from scratch, let your facial hair grow for about one to two weeks to build enough coverage.
Once you have a solid base, use a precision trimmer to outline your goatee, shaping it to suit your face.
Define the edges carefully, keeping both sides symmetrical.
For sharp, clean lines, use a razor to tidy up the cheeks and neck.
Regular trim-ups will keep your goatee looking intentional rather than patchy.
How to Maintain a Goatee
'Regular trimming with a guarded trimmer keeps it sharp. Use a beard oil or balm for softness and a dedicated brush to keep stray hairs in check. Don’t forget to moisturise the skin underneath to prevent irritation,' schools Forsythe.
7 Celebrities with Goatees
Stuck for goatee inpso? Forsythe says look to actors like Robert Downey Jr., Idris Elba, Timothée Chalamet and Jason Momoa have all proven the goatee’s versatility. It adds structure and personality, especially when styled to suit their jawlines.'
1/ Idris Elba
2/ Adam Driver
3/ Jude Bellingham
4/ Christian Bale
5/ Leonardo Dicaprio
6/ Robert Downey Jr
7/ Ryan Gosling
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