How Often You Need to Edge Your Beard, According to a Barber
Edging your beard isn’t just about looking sharp; it’s about reclaiming control of that facial masterpiece you’ve worked hard to grow. And just like with rest days or cooking the perfect steak, timing is everything.
Get it right, and you’re left with a crisp, defined look; get it wrong, and you’ll end up with uneven lines and a rushed job. Not sure how often you should edge your beard? MH spoke to Maxwell Oakley, co-founder of London Barbershops, Supply 91. Here's everything you need to know.
How often should you edge your beard?
'For a well-maintained beard I recommend trimming and lining up your beard once a week,' says Oakley. 'That's because, when it comes to looking after your beard, the golden rule is less is more. A natural but groomed look is the way forward for 2025, so try to keep things soft, yet refined.'
When it comes to edging your beard at home, Oakley says you'll need clippers with guards ranging from grades 1 to 4. 'I also recommend brushing the beard,' adds Oakley, 'although you don't necessarily have to use a beard brush: a standard comb will work just as well. Invest in a decent beard oil, too.'
How to edge your beard: Step-by-step guide
Here, Oakley breaks down exactly how to edge your beard at home.
Step 1: Take Weight Out
Start by attaching the 4 guard to your clippers.
Turn the clippers upside down and work with the direction of your facial hair.
Run the clippers downward along your cheeks, keeping them flat. Imagine an invisible line running straight down from your cheek to your jaw – you don’t want to round off or curve into the jawline.
This will take off stray hairs and reduce the bulk while keeping the natural shape intact.
Step 2: Gradually Taper the Beard
Switch to the 3 guard and repeat the same motion, but stop a little higher than before.
Continue with the 2 guard, then the 1 guard, working progressively higher toward your sideburn area, stopping higher than the last guard each time. This creates a seamless taper.
Step 3: Line Up the Beard
When lining up, the key is softness. Avoid cutting too far into your hairline; instead, just remove the stray hairs that sit above the thickest part of your beard.
If you cut too far into the hairline, it will grow back quickly and look messy within a week. Keep it subtle – less is more.
Step 4: Soften the Neckline
• Use the longer guards (eg, 3 or 4) to gently go against the grain around your neckline, facing up towards your jawline. This softens the area without creating a harsh edge.
• For the neckline line-up, a good rule of thumb is to place two fingers above your Adam’s apple. This is where your natural line should sit.
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