Tips for a well-groomed 3-day beard: trimming, contouring and softening the beard

In just a few steps to a well-groomed 3-day beard

A classic among beard styles is the 3-day beard. It's quick and easy to maintain, uncomplicated, and suitable for any situation. The length is usually between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, so just find what looks best on your face. We'll show you how to trim a truly stylish 3-day beard in four easy steps.

Step 0: Grow your beard

It's not exactly trimming, but you can't start trimming something that isn't there. So, let it grow. How long this takes depends on your individual beard growth (more on that: Stimulating beard growth ). Your beard should simply be a decent length—it can be as little as 3 cm.

Step 1: Wash your beard

Another step that's not directly related to trimming, but is just as important: washing your beard. Ideally, use beard shampoo (as a solid soap or liquid ) and water. Then, either let it air dry or blow-dry. Please don't do it for too long, as this will make the beard hairs too soft. Briefly lather, rinse, and let it dry.

Step 2: Trim the 3-day beard

Yes, it's finally starting! Set your beard trimmer to your length and start shaving against the direction of hair growth. Settings between 1mm and 3mm are typical, but if you're unsure, start with a wider cutting length and work your way up. Make sure all the hairs are cut evenly and go over the same area again—from your chin and neck to your jawline, sideburns, and upper lip. Your beard trimmer should be adjustable to different lengths so you can work individually and achieve smooth transitions.

Step 3: Cut contours

Your contours are practically the most important part of your beard—they can enhance your facial features even more beautifully. If you're shaving for the first time, we recommend visiting a barber first. They'll perfectly trim your contours, so you can simply shave them back as if following a template. Otherwise, read more about contour lines here.

This beard style isn't quite as casual as it looks. It's up to you, of course, how (or if) you want to trim your contours, but we definitely recommend shaving your neck and cheeks. This will make your beard look more groomed and tidy. It's best to use shaving oil for this and then shave down to a line of your choice – typically the line between your throat and jawline. These lines will help you define your cheek contours; again, experiment. See what you like best for your face. The imaginary line from your upper lip to your ears/sideburns is just a guideline.

It's best to shave with a safety razor , straight razor, or a good trimmer in the direction of hair growth. If you use a trimmer, you usually don't need a comb attachment on the trimmer head.
If your skin is sensitive and prone to razor burn and pimples, read our tips and tricks beforehand .

Step 4: Aftercare.

Shaving puts a strain on your skin, so it benefits from moisturizing and antibacterial ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile. Aftershaves prevent inflammation and are also moisturizing. Aftershave creams are preferable for dry skin because they are gentler. Aftershave balms, for example, with magnolia extract and moringa oil, also support the healing process after shaving.

Make your beard softer

Afterward, beard oil or a moisturizer for your beard and face is essential for daily care to keep your beard and the skin underneath looking great! We also have 2-in-1 products for those in a hurry. For an extra dose of moisture and a super soft beard, there's a beard softener. You can find more about after-shave care here . In our video, we give you three more tips for a softer beard!