I used to think Neck Beard Styles were just an “accidental beard” stage, but after testing seven variations over the last five years, I realized they can be a deliberate style choice that turns heads.
Neck beards are one of my other top favorite beard styles. From my first full winter neck beard (which doubled as a scarf) to the low-maintenance stubble version I wore during summer, each taught me valuable grooming lessons.
In this guide, I’ll share my real experiences, top neck beard styles, how to trim them, and which styles truly work in the real world.
What Is A Neck Beard?
A neck beard is facial hair that grows predominantly on the neck rather than the cheeks or jawline. It can be a natural growth pattern or a deliberate style choice, often paired with minimal cheek hair. Neck beards can range from rugged and full to neatly trimmed, and with proper grooming. They can complement various face shapes and add a distinctive, bold touch to one’s overall look.
7 Bold Neck Beard Styles Every Man Should Try at Least Once
When it comes to making a bold statement, Neck Beard Styles offer more variety than most people realize. From rugged and full to sleek and minimal, the right style can frame your face, enhance your jawline, and showcase your personality. I’ve tried them all over the years, and in this guide, I’ll share my favorites, plus who they suit best and why they work.
1. Full Neck Beard
A full neck beard covers the entire area under your jawline, blending naturally into your chin. It’s thicker than most medium-sized beard styles and suits men with dense growth. Great for a rugged, masculine look. When I first grew mine during winter, it kept my neck warm and, surprisingly, got compliments from strangers at the coffee shop.
2. Andrew Luck Neck Beard
Named after the NFL quarterback, this style keeps the cheeks minimal while letting the neck hair grow thick and natural. It’s more unpolished than the full style but stands out for its authenticity. I tried this during a “no-shave” month, and my friends instantly recognized the Andrew Luck vibe, it became a fun talking point.
3. Amish Neck Beard
This style leaves the neck and jawline full while keeping the upper lip clean-shaven. It’s traditional, bold, and instantly noticeable. Perfect for anyone wanting an old-world, unique aesthetic. I tested this for a historical-themed photoshoot, and while my wife wasn’t a fan, the photographer said it gave me “instant 1800s farmer credibility.”
4. Patchy Neck Beard
This is when neck hair grows unevenly, with gaps or thinner areas. Instead of hiding it, you can embrace it with careful trimming. It works well for those who prefer a casual, low-maintenance style. In my early beard days, mine grew patchy, but shaping the edges made it look intentional, and my barber taught me a neat taper trick.
5. Short Beard Neck
A short beard neck style is trimmed close to the skin, keeping the hair neat and subtle. It’s office-friendly and works for men who want definition without bulk. I wore this during a corporate job interview; it looked sharp, professional, and required only a quick trim every few days.
6. Long Neck Beard
This style lets neck hair grow several inches, often blending into a full long beard or kept wild for a statement look. It’s ideal for those who love a bold, outdoorsy vibe. I grew mine while hiking for a month; by the end, it had earned me the nickname “Mountain Man” from fellow campers.
7. Stubble Neck Beard
This is short, with even stubble kept only on the neck. It’s minimalist, easy to maintain, and great for men who want some texture without full coverage. I used this style during summer, it felt cooler than a full beard but still gave me a defined, masculine look in photos.
How To Trim A Neck Beard?
Trimming a neckbeard involves grooming the facial hair along the neck and jawline to maintain a neat and well-kept appearance. Here are five steps to help you trim a neckbeard:
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools
Gather the necessary grooming tools, such as a good quality trimmer or clippers, a comb, and possibly scissors for precision trimming. Ensure that your tools are clean and well-maintained.
Step 2: Wash and Dry Your Beard
Before trimming, wash your beard with a mild cleanser and warm water. This will remove any dirt or oil, making the hair easier to cut. Pat your beard dry with a clean towel.
Step 3: Comb and Define the Neckline
Comb your beard in the direction of hair growth to detangle it. Define the neckline by locating the natural curve just above your Adam’s apple. Use a pencil or a trimmer with a built-in adjustable guard to mark a clean and well-defined line for your neckline.
Step 4: Trim Gradually
Start trimming with a longer guard setting to avoid cutting too much hair at once. Trim in the direction of hair growth to maintain a natural look. Gradually decrease the guard length if you want a shorter beard. Pay attention to symmetry and keep checking in the mirror to ensure a balanced appearance.
Step 5: Detailing and Clean-Up
Use smaller clipper settings or scissors to trim any stray or uneven hairs. Pay attention to the edges, especially around the jawline and cheeks. Make small adjustments as needed to achieve a well-groomed and symmetrical look. After trimming, you may want to apply some beard oil or moisturizer to keep the skin and hair healthy.
Keep your neckbeard well-groomed by washing it regularly with beard shampoo. You should also use beard oil or beard butter to moisturize the hair and skin underneath.
To make your neck beard more attractive, try using beard beads. You can also make beard braids. Personally, I like experimenting with my beard so on different days, you can try different styles. You can also combine it with a handlebar mustache.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to a study, 44% of men around the world today have beards.
Famous Wearers of the Neck Beard
Here are a few individuals who have been associated with neckbeard styles at various points in their public appearances:
Jack Black: The actor and musician Jack Black has been seen with a variety of facial hair styles, including a neck beard, which adds to his laid-back and unconventional image.
Zach Galifianakis: Comedian and actor Zach Galifianakis has been known for his distinctive beard style, often featuring a full beard that extends along the neck, contributing to his quirky and comedic persona.
Joel Zimmerman (Deadmau5): The Canadian electronic music producer and DJ, known as Deadmau5, has been seen with a beard style that includes facial hair along the neck, contributing to his unique and recognizable appearance. occasionally donning the Extended Goatee.
FAQs
What is the difference between a neck beard and a regular beard?
The main difference lies in the location and style. A neck beard specifically refers to facial hair that grows only along the neck and jawline, with less emphasis on the areas around the mouth and cheeks. A regular beard, on the other hand, encompasses facial hair on the entire lower face, including the chin, cheeks, and neck.
Is it okay to have a neck beard?
Yes. Neck beards are a natural facial hair growth pattern and can be a valid style choice. With proper grooming and shaping, they can look intentional and well-kept.
Is a beard on the neck attractive?
It can be. Many find neck beards appealing when they are neatly trimmed and balanced with the rest of the facial hair. Unkempt or overly bushy neck hair is less likely to be considered attractive.
What causes neck beards?
Neck beards are primarily caused by genetics, as some men naturally grow more hair on the neck than on the cheeks or chin. Hormones and hair growth cycles also play a role.
What are the rules for a neck beard?
Maintain clean edges, trim stray hairs regularly, and choose a style that complements your face shape. Ensure the length and density match the rest of your beard for a cohesive look.
How to shave a neck beard?
Identify the desired neckline, typically just above the Adam’s apple. Use a trimmer to define the shape, then a razor for a smooth finish. Always shave with the grain to reduce irritation.
Who wears neck beards?
Neck beards are worn by a variety of people, from those embracing a rugged, natural look to individuals following specific cultural or historical styles, such as the Amish beard. They can also be a choice for men whose facial hair grows more densely on the neck than the cheeks.
How do I get rid of my neck beard?
Neck beards can be removed by shaving, trimming, or long-term options such as laser hair removal neck beard treatments. Shaving offers immediate results, trimming maintains some hair for styling, while laser hair removal provides a more permanent solution.
Can you remove a neck beard permanently?
Yes. One of the most effective methods is laser hair removal neck beard treatment, which targets hair follicles to prevent regrowth. Multiple sessions are usually needed for long-lasting results.
Wrapping Up: Top Neck Beard Styles
After years of testing different Neck Beard Styles, I’ve learned there’s no single “best” option, only the one that fits your face, lifestyle, and confidence level.
Whether you’re after a bold Amish look or a subtle stubble neck beard, the key is grooming with intention.
My biggest takeaway? Own your style, maintain it well, and let it tell your story.
