A man wearing one of the Mustache styles

Guide to Mustache Styles, Grooming, and Maintenance

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Here is your guide to mustache styles, grooming, and maintenance! From classic styles to expert grooming tips, learn how to grow, shape, and care for your mustache like a pro.

As a kid, I thought mustache was for clowns and men who wanted to make people laugh.

I felt this way because it was very funny to me until I started studying about men’s facial hair and beards.

For centuries, mustaches have played a defining role in personal style, cultural identity, and even social status.

From the regal grooming of Victorian gentlemen to the bold statements of modern icons, mustaches have evolved while maintaining their timeless appeal.

Whether seen as a mark of distinction, a nod to tradition, or a rebellious fashion choice, they continue to shape trends across generations.

This guide reaches deep into mustache styles, expert grooming techniques, and essential maintenance tips, everything you need to refine your look and embrace the art of mustache mastery.

Ready to know everything about mustaches? Let’s go.

Related: Intro to Facial Hair Grooming

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Mustaches are a timeless symbol of style, masculinity, and individuality, evolving across cultures and historical periods.
  • Choosing the right mustache style depends on face shape, personality, and grooming preferences for a polished or rugged look.
  • Proper mustache grooming requires trimming, conditioning, and styling tools like scissors, combs, and balms for maintenance.
  • Patience and proper care are essential for growing a thick, healthy mustache, supported by good nutrition and skincare.

Recommended: All the Men’s Beard Styles

What is a Mustache?

A mustache is the strip of facial hair above your upper lip. You can keep it thick, thin, sculpted, or rugged, depending on your style and grooming routine. It has been a symbol of masculinity, status, and personality across different cultures and periods.

Some men wear it to make a bold statement, while others keep it subtle and refined. Styles range from the curled handlebar to the thin pencil mustache, each giving a distinct look.

You can grow it as part of a beard or let it stand on its own. Whatever you choose, your mustache speaks for you.

Related: When Your Beards Begin to Be Dense

The History of Mustaches

Mustaches have shaped identities, symbolized power, and marked cultural shifts for centuries. From ancient rulers to modern trendsetters, facial hair has been more than just a style choice, it’s a statement.

  • Ancient Civilizations: Power and Prestige: Facial hair held deep meaning in early societies. In ancient Egypt, pharaohs wore mustaches as a sign of authority, sometimes decorating them with gold. Greek warriors and philosophers sported them as a mark of wisdom and masculinity, while Roman leaders viewed them as a symbol of strength.
  • The Middle Ages: Changing Attitudes: During the medieval period, many cultures leaned toward clean-shaven faces, associating beards and mustaches with warriors or outlaws. However, styles varied across regions. Knights and nobles in some parts of Europe grew mustaches to complement their beards, while others preferred a polished look.
  • The Victorian Era: The Age of Refinement: By the 19th century, mustaches became a fashion staple for gentlemen. The handlebar, walrus, and imperial styles rose to prominence, often maintained with wax for a sculpted look. Figures like Albert Einstein and Salvador Dalí made iconic contributions to mustache culture, each sporting a signature style.
  • The 20th Century: Trends and Transformations: From Hollywood icons to political leaders, mustaches took on new meaning in the 20th century. The rugged, full mustache of Tom Selleck became a symbol of masculinity, while the pencil-thin style was favored by entertainers and even authoritarian figures.
  • Today: A Statement of Self-Expression: Mustaches now represent personality, confidence, and even social movements like Movember. Whether styled for sophistication, creativity, or a casual look, they continue to evolve. Understanding their history gives you a deeper appreciation for their lasting impact across cultures and generations.

Related: Beard Styles for Older Men

Mustache Styles and Their Meanings

Your mustache isn’t just facial hair, it’s a statement. Different styles carry different vibes, from rugged and bold to sleek and refined.

The right choice depends on your face shape, personality, and the image you want to project. Here’s a breakdown of some classic mustache styles and what they represent.

Chevron Mustache

A Chevron mustache is thick, slightly curved downward, and covers most of the upper lip. It gives a bold, masculine look and works best for men with square or oval faces.

This style is easy to maintain with occasional trimming, making it ideal for those who prefer a natural yet structured appearance.

Popularized by icons like Tom Selleck, Chevron exudes confidence and authority. It pairs well with a clean-shaven face or light stubble.

If you want a classic, effortless mustache that commands respect without excessive grooming, the Chevron is a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

Handlebar Mustache

The Handlebar mustache features curled ends that sweep upward, creating a vintage and sophisticated look. It suits oval and square face shapes, adding a touch of old-world charm.

Achieving the perfect curl requires waxing and regular styling, but the effort pays off with a distinctive, polished appearance.

This mustache pairs well with a neatly trimmed beard or a clean-shaven face. Whether you’re channeling a 19th-century gentleman or adding flair to your modern style, the Handlebar stands out.

It’s a bold choice for those who appreciate attention to detail and want a mustache that makes a lasting impression.

Walrus Mustache

The Walrus mustache is thick, and bushy, and extends past the upper lip, creating a rugged and commanding presence.

It works best for men with broad faces and requires patience to grow. This style was famously worn by historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt, reinforcing its association with wisdom and strength.

While it requires regular grooming to prevent overgrowth, the Walrus remains a bold choice for those who prefer a natural, full look.

If you want a mustache that reflects confidence, experience, and a no-nonsense attitude, the Walrus is a powerful statement that embodies classic masculinity with an untamed edge.

Horseshoe Mustache

The Horseshoe mustache features thick vertical extensions running down to the jawline, forming an inverted U shape.

It has a rebellious, tough-guy appeal, often associated with bikers and wrestlers like Hulk Hogan.

This style works well for men with strong, angular facial features and adds a bold, aggressive edge to their look.

While it requires regular trimming to maintain its shape, it’s an easy-to-grow mustache that makes a lasting impression.

The Horseshoe isn’t for the faint of heart, it’s for men who embrace individuality and aren’t afraid to stand out with a striking, masculine statement.

Related: Beards for Black Men

Pencil Mustache

The Pencil mustache is thin, neatly trimmed, and rests just above the upper lip, offering a sleek and refined look.

It gained popularity in the early 20th century, worn by Hollywood stars and debonair gentlemen.

This style works best for men with narrow or elongated faces, enhancing their facial structure without overwhelming it.

Maintaining a Pencil mustache requires regular shaving and precise trimming to keep its clean, sharp appearance.

It’s a subtle yet stylish choice for those who appreciate minimalism. If you want a mustache that adds character without being overpowering, the Pencil is a timeless and sophisticated option.

Fu Manchu Mustache

The Fu Manchu mustache is long, with strands extending downward past the chin, creating a striking and unique look.

It has cultural roots in Chinese history and has been popularized in movies and martial arts lore.

Growing and maintaining this mustache requires patience, as it takes time to reach its full length.

This style suits men who enjoy a distinctive and dramatic appearance. Waxing may be necessary to keep the strands in place.

If you want a mustache that commands attention and stands out from conventional styles, the Fu Manchu is a bold, adventurous choice with a rich history.

English Mustache

The English mustache is thin, straight, and slightly curled at the ends, offering a refined and distinguished look. It requires precise grooming and waxing to maintain its polished shape.

This mustache pairs well with formal attire and suits men with rounder faces, as it adds definition to facial features.

It has roots in British aristocracy and has long been associated with sophistication and class.

The English mustache isn’t for those who want a low-maintenance style—it demands attention to detail.

If you prefer a sharp, elegant mustache that reflects a well-groomed and intellectual personality, this is the perfect choice.

Imperial Mustache

The Imperial mustache is grand and full, with thick curls extending upward. It was historically worn by European nobility and military leaders, symbolizing power and status.

This style requires patience and grooming, as regular waxing is needed to maintain its bold shape.

It suits men with strong facial features and adds a dramatic flair to any look. The Imperial Mustache is for those who want to make an unforgettable statement, embracing a vintage yet regal style.

If you’re looking for a mustache that conveys confidence, sophistication, and a touch of extravagance, the Imperial is a striking choice.

Related: Everything to Know about the Full Beard

How to Grow a Mustache: A Quick Guide

Growing a mustache takes patience and the right care. Genetics influence how fast and thick your facial hair grows, but you can support the process by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

In the first few weeks, patchiness is common, but letting it grow without trimming helps it fill in.

A diet rich in biotin, protein, and vitamins strengthens hair, while proper skincare prevents irritation.

Staying consistent with growth and grooming leads to better results. Ready for a deeper dive into mustache growth tips?

Check out our comprehensive guide on growing the perfect mustache [insert link here].

Related: The Goatee Styles

Mustache Grooming and Maintenance

Keeping your mustache well-groomed takes the right tools and a consistent routine. A sharp look comes down to trimming, shaping, and conditioning.

With the right approach, you can keep your mustache healthy and styled to match your personality.

Tools for Mustache Grooming

You’ll need a few basics:

  • Scissors: Great for precise trimming, especially for longer styles
  • Trimmers: Best for maintaining even length in shorter mustaches
  • Combs and Brushes: Help detangle and distribute products evenly
  • Oils and Balms: Keep hair soft, hydrated, and styled

Scissors or Trimmers: Which One?

Scissors give you control for detailed shaping, while electric trimmers offer a quick and even cut.

If you prefer a structured style, trimmers work well. For a natural look with length, scissors help maintain shape without taking off too much.

Combing and Brushing

A fine-toothed comb smooths your mustache and helps with styling. A brush works better for thick mustaches, adding volume and training the hair to grow in the right direction.

Brushing also stimulates hair follicles, which may encourage healthier growth.

Oils and Balms

Mustache oil keeps hair soft, reduces itchiness, and prevents dryness. Balms offer light hold, helping shape your mustache and keep stray hairs in place. A small amount goes a long way, apply daily for the best results.

Trimming and Shaping

Start by trimming small amounts at a time to avoid cutting too much. Trim the ends regularly to keep your mustache neat, and clean it daily to remove food and dirt.

A well-maintained mustache makes a strong impression and shows you take care of yourself.

Mustache Care for Different Hair Types

Your mustache needs care that matches your hair type. Thick, thin, straight, or curly—each type has its own challenges. Using the right grooming techniques keeps your mustache looking sharp and feeling healthy.

Thick Mustache: Keep It Under Control

  • Trim regularly to prevent bulkiness
  • Use a mustache comb to detangle and spread natural oils
  • Apply wax or a strong-hold product to shape and manage coarse hair
  • Choose natural ingredients to prevent dryness and brittleness

Thin Mustache: Add Volume and Definition

  • Trim less frequently to maintain the length
  • Use a light-hold styling product to define shape without weighing it down
  • A fine-toothed comb helps with precise styling
  • Oils can nourish hair follicles and support thicker growth

Straight vs Curly: Different Grooming Needs

Straight Hair: Needs light products for a sleek look
Curly Hair: Prone to frizz, so use a hydrating balm or curl cream

  • Conditioning treatments keep curly hair soft and manageable
  • Moisturize regularly to prevent dryness

Matching your grooming routine to your hair type keeps your mustache looking its best. Find the right balance of trimming, styling, and conditioning to achieve a polished look.

Mustache Styling Tips

Your mustache can define your look, whether you prefer a polished style or something rugged. The right techniques and products make all the difference.

Using Mustache Wax for Hold and Shape

  • Warm a small amount of wax between your fingers before applying
  • Work it through your mustache, focusing on the ends for a handlebar-style
  • For a stronger curl, twist the ends while applying wax

Choosing a Style That Fits Your Face

  • Handlebar mustaches add sophistication
  • A relaxed, natural style works well for a casual look
  • Trim regularly to maintain a clean shape

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using too much wax makes your mustache stiff and unnatural
  • Skipping regular trims leads to an uneven appearance
  • Ignoring mustache care results in dryness and frizz

Mustache and Facial Hair Combinations

Your mustache can stand alone or work with other facial hair styles to create a distinct look. The right combination can highlight your features and define your style.

Mustache with a Beard: A Bold Statement

  • A thick handlebar mustache with a full beard creates a strong, confident appearance
  • A shorter beard with a trimmed mustache keeps things balanced and professional
  • Regular shaping prevents an unkempt look

Mustache and Goatee: Classic with an Edge

  • A goatee paired with a styled mustache gives a modern yet refined touch
  • Varying lengths and shapes can make the look softer or sharper
  • Keeping the edges clean adds definition

Mustache Only: Sharp and Timeless

  • A well-maintained mustache stands out on its own
  • Works well for those who prefer a polished but low-maintenance routine
  • Regular trimming keeps it neat and intentional

Clean-Shaven Contrast

Easy to maintain with regular shaving and skincare

Shaving the rest of your face puts full focus on your mustache

A fresh, smooth look can be youthful and professional

Mustaches have shaped fashion and personal identity for generations. Their meaning and style shift with time, reflecting cultural changes and individual expression.

  • The handlebar mustache dominated the late 19th century, symbolizing sophistication
  • The 1970s and 80s brought thick, bold mustaches made famous by figures like Tom Selleck
  • Today, retro styles mix with modern grooming, making mustaches a fashion statement again

Pop Culture Influence

  • Movies and TV have kept mustaches relevant, from Ron Swanson’s rugged style to Tony Stark’s sleek look
  • Social media influencers have revived classic mustache styles, inspiring younger generations
  • Mustaches appear in music, sports, and entertainment, reinforcing their presence in mainstream culture

More Than Just Style

  • Movember turned mustache-growing into a movement for men’s health awareness
  • Some wear mustaches as a personal statement, while others embrace them as part of a trend
  • The mustache’s lasting appeal comes from its ability to adapt while keeping its distinct identity

Mustaches continue to evolve, blending tradition with modern fashion. Whether you prefer a bold or subtle look, the mustache remains a timeless part of men’s grooming.

Mustache Competitions and Communities

Mustache competitions bring together enthusiasts who take facial hair styling to another level. Events like the World Beard and Mustache Championships attract competitors from around the world, each showcasing styles ranging from the classic handlebar to creative freestyle designs.

Judges evaluate entries based on criteria such as symmetry, grooming, and originality, making these contests a mix of skill and self-expression.

Local competitions offer a more casual setting, welcoming participants of all levels. Categories cater to different styles and lengths, ensuring a fair playing field.

Whether you’re competing or just spectating, these events provide a great way to connect with others who share a passion for mustache culture.

Beyond in-person events, online communities have become a go-to space for mustache lovers.

Social media groups and forums allow people to exchange grooming advice, recommend products, and discuss styling techniques. Many also turn to local mustache clubs and meetups, where members bond over shared interests and trade grooming secrets in person.

Being part of a mustache competition or community is more than just growing facial hair, it’s about celebrating style, craftsmanship, and camaraderie.

Whether you’re refining your technique, trying a new look, or cheering on competitors, there’s a place for you in this thriving subculture.

Common Mustache Problems and Solutions

Mustache grooming can be a rewarding endeavor, yet it often presents a range of challenges.

Patchy Growth

Uneven mustache growth can be frustrating, but patience and proper care can improve its appearance. Using beard oils with biotin or castor oil may support healthier follicles.

Trimming surrounding areas strategically can also make sparse spots less noticeable. Letting your mustache grow longer before shaping helps blend patchy areas for a fuller look.

Itchiness

Itchiness is common in the early stages of growth and is usually caused by dry skin or coarse hair.

Applying beard oil or a light moisturizer can soothe irritation. Washing your mustache with a gentle facial cleanser removes the buildup that might be causing discomfort. Avoid harsh soaps that strip natural oils, as they can make itching worse.

Dandruff

Flaky skin in your mustache can make even a well-groomed style look messy. Using an anti-dandruff shampoo once or twice a week can help.

Follow up with a beard conditioner or oil to keep the skin hydrated. Regular exfoliation with a soft brush can also remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup.

Cowlicks and Unruly Hairs

Some mustache hairs naturally grow in different directions, making styling difficult. A good mustache wax provides hold and control, while regular combing helps train the hair to lay in place.

Trimming stray hairs with precision scissors can further refine the shape. Consistency in grooming makes a noticeable difference over time.

Mustache Myths and Misconceptions

  • Mustaches Take Too Long to Grow: Many people think growing a mustache is a slow process, but facial hair typically grows about half an inch per month. Genetics, age, and hormones determine how fast or thick your mustache will be. Some men see results in weeks, while others need more time. The key is patience and proper grooming.
  • Mustaches Are Unhygienic: A well-maintained mustache is no dirtier than a clean-shaven face. The idea that mustaches trap bacteria comes from poor hygiene habits, not facial hair itself. Regular washing with mild soap, brushing to remove debris, and using beard oil can keep your mustache clean and fresh. Proper care makes facial hair an asset, not a liability.
  • Mustaches Only Suit Certain Face Shapes: No face shape is off-limits for a mustache. The trick is finding a style that complements your features. A handlebar can add character to a narrow face, while a chevron can balance a rounder one. Experimenting with different styles helps you discover what suits you best.
  • Mustaches Must Follow Trends: Trends come and go, but personal style lasts. A mustache should reflect your personality, not just what’s popular. Whether you prefer a thick, bold style or a subtle, well-groomed look, the choice is yours. Confidence in your appearance matters more than any passing trend.

Mustache and Professionalism

Facial hair can be a statement in the workplace, but professional settings vary in how they perceive mustaches.

Corporate offices tend to favor clean, polished looks, while creative industries allow more personal expression. Knowing your workplace culture helps in choosing a mustache style that fits.

Keeping a mustache well-groomed is key to looking professional. Regular trimming prevents an unkempt appearance, and using wax or oil keeps it in shape.

A well-maintained mustache pairs well with formal attire, showing attention to detail.

Classic styles work best in professional settings. A Chevron mustache looks strong but refined, a Pencil mustache offers subtle sophistication, and a neat Handlebar can fit creative spaces.

Balancing personal style with workplace expectations ensures a polished, professional image.

Mustache Care for Special Occasions

Your mustache is a key part of your look, especially for events like weddings, formal gatherings, and themed parties.

The right grooming routine ensures it matches the occasion and adds to your overall style.

Formal Events: Weddings and Business Gatherings

A well-groomed mustache pairs well with formal attire. Schedule a trim or professional grooming session a few days before the event to refine the shape.

Classic styles like the Chevron or Handlebar work well, offering a polished and timeless look. A quality mustache wax keeps everything in place for hours.

Themed Parties: Experiment with Style

For costume or themed events, you have room to be creative. Colored wax can match a costume, and bold styles add character.

If it’s an outdoor event, consider seasonal factors: moisturizing products prevent dryness in winter, while trimming helps in humid conditions.

Match Your Mustache to Your Outfit

Your mustache should complement your attire. A cohesive look shows attention to detail and makes a lasting impression.

With the right grooming approach, your mustache can be a standout feature at any special occasion.

Movember and the Charitable Mustache Movement

Movember, a blend of “Moustache” and “November,” encourages men to grow mustaches throughout the month to raise awareness and funds for men’s health.

The movement focuses on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health, using facial hair as a conversation starter.

It began in Australia in 2003 when friends sought to revive the mustache while supporting a meaningful cause.

Since then, it has become a worldwide initiative, drawing millions of participants and raising substantial funds for health programs.

Joining Movember starts with registering on the official website, setting fundraising goals, and growing a mustache as a commitment to the cause.

Engaging friends, family, and colleagues through donations, social media, and local events strengthens the impact.

Women can participate by supporting fundraisers or spreading awareness. Movember is more than facial hair, it’s about improving men’s health and building a supportive community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to grow a mustache?

It typically takes 4-6 weeks, but growth varies based on genetics, health, and grooming habits.

What’s the best mustache style for my face shape?

Square faces suit fuller styles like Chevron, while oval faces can rock Handlebar, Pencil, or Imperial mustaches.

How do I keep my mustache soft and healthy?

Use beard oil, balm, and regular conditioning to prevent dryness, irritation, and frizz while keeping it well-groomed.

Can I grow a mustache faster?

A healthy diet, hydration, biotin supplements, and consistent skincare can help speed up mustache growth naturally.

Conclusion

A mustache is more than just facial hair, it’s an expression of personality, confidence, and style.

Whether you prefer a classic Chevron, a bold Handlebar, or a refined Pencil mustache, the key to a great look lies in proper grooming and maintenance.

By using the right tools, staying consistent with care, and embracing patience during the growth process, you can achieve the mustache that best complements your face and personality.

No matter your choice, wearing a mustache with confidence is what truly makes it stand out. Ready to grow and groom yours like a pro? Start today!

References

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