We鈥檙e firm believers in growing a winter beard, for both practical and philosophical reasons. There鈥檚 no better time to start growing your winter beard than right now, in the midst of , when all that fresh facial hair can help raise awareness and money for cancer research.聽In an attempt to help you grow the best winter beard of your life, we tracked down Taylor Welden, the vice president of and reigning U.S. National Beard Champion to discuss the art of the beard.
鈥淚t sounds simple, but the key to growing a great beard is to not shave,鈥 Welden says. 鈥淒on鈥檛 shave for at least six months. Then you鈥檒l really see what kind of beard you can grow.鈥澛
Welden competes in beard competitions regularly, and is known for his elaborately styled mustache and full beard, but insists that not everyone needs to go to such great lengths with their facial hair.聽
鈥淎ll facial hair is valid,鈥 Welden says. 鈥淎 five o鈥檆lock shadow is equal to my beard in my eyes.鈥澛
With that egalitarian sentiment in mind, we asked Welden to pick his favorite products for grooming a beard. Here are his picks, in his own words.聽
Blind Barber Lemongrass Tea Shampoo ($24)
“I鈥檓 not crazy when it comes to grooming but I and condition my beard every two days.”
Billy Jealousy Beard Control Balm ($20)
“Beard balm is great.聽 when you鈥檙e just out of the shower, then walk away and let it dry.”
Bearded Bastard Woodsmen Beard Oil ($20)聽
“I was camping recently in the Grand Canyon, and it was聽really dry, so I touched up my beard . Put a little in your hands and wipe it through to help moisturize the follicles.”
Captain Fawcett Wild Boar Bristle Beard Brush ($20)
“A boars hair helps straighten things out but doesn't grab and pull like a comb. I brush around six times a day.”
Remington Beard Boss ($45)聽
“I'm against shaving, but I鈥檒l occasionally trim off the split ends at the bottom of my beard, and keep it in a good shape. The is good for cleaning up the neck too.”