Beard Trim or Shape-Up: Which Do You Need?

Most guys ask for a beard trim when what they really want is a shape-up. The two sound similar and the tools overlap, but the goal is different. A trim keeps the length and removes the bulk. A shape-up redraws the lines — cheeks, neck, the edge along the jaw.

Get a trim when

• The beard is the length you want, but it's gone fuzzy at the edges.
• You're growing it out and just need the split ends and strays cleaned.
• The neck hair is creeping past the Adam's apple.

Get a shape-up when

• The cheek line has gone ragged or uneven.
• The jaw line has lost its definition.
• You want a crisp, lined edge rather than a soft, natural one.

Plenty of guys want both. We trim the bulk first, then line the cheeks and neck to match your face. The hot towel softens the hair and opens the pores before the straight razor cleans up the edge.

Matching it to the cut

A skin fade pairs naturally with a lined beard — the sharpness at the sides of your head continues into a clean jaw. A longer, looser cut reads better with a softer, natural beard edge. Tell us what you're after and we'll balance the two.

Stop by Ron's on Pacific St in Stamford, or call (203) 595-5800 ahead of time so we can block out the time a beard service takes.