Facial hair has always been a symbol of masculinity and style. One of the more unique and stylish choices is a soul patch beard.
There are many facial hair options for men, from the classic clean-shaven look to the more rugged and wild beard styles, men express themselves through their facial hair.
While I am not a fan of soul patch because of its lack of style and creativity, it is a big choice for most men, especially when combined with other styles of facial hair.
In this article, we will talk about what a soul patch beard is, how to grow and maintain it, and some tips for keeping it looking sharp and stylish.
What is a Soul Patch Beard?
A soul patch beard, or simply soul patch, is a patch of facial hair located at the hollow, just below and under the lower lip.
It is typically a narrow strip of hair that is shaved or trimmed to be kept short and neat.
The soul patch beard is a versatile and low-maintenance facial hair style that can complement a variety of other beard styles or be worn on its own for a clean and modern look.
The soul patch has a long history and has been popularized by iconic figures such as jazz musicians, beat poets, and rebels of the 1950s and 1960s.
It has since become a popular choice for men looking to add a touch of individuality and style to their appearance.
Related: Older Men’s Beard Styles
Why is it Called Soul Patch?
The term “soul patch” is believed to have originated in the 1950s jazz scene, where it was commonly associated with African American musicians and artists who were seen as having deep soulful expressions in their music.
The style became popular with Beatniks and counterculture icons in the 1960s and 70s, further solidifying its connection to soulful and rebellious individuals.
The patch of hair under the lower lip was thought to represent a person’s soul or inner spirit, hence the name “soul patch beard.”
Today, the style is still often seen as a symbol of individuality and creativity.
Related: How to Grow a Goatee Beard Style
Why the Soul Patch Appeals to Many Men
Unique and Stylish: The soul patch is unique and stylish because it adds a trendy and edgy look to a man’s facial hair, making him stand out from the crowd.
Low Maintenance: The soul patch is low maintenance as it requires minimal grooming and upkeep compared to other facial hair styles, making it a convenient choice for busy men.
Can Be Dressed Up or Down: The soul patch can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making it versatile and suitable for both formal and casual settings.
Related: How to Care for and Groom Beards
How to Grow a Soul Patch Beard
Growing a soul patch is relatively simple compared to other beard styles, but it still requires some patience and care to achieve the desired look.
Here are some steps to help you grow and maintain a soul patch beard:
1. Choose the Right Size
The first step in growing a soul patch beard is to choose the right size for it.
The soul patch should be centered just below the lower lip and above the chin, with the width and length depending on personal preference.
2. Shave or Trim the Surrounding Facial Hair
To make the soul patch stand out, it is important to keep the surrounding facial hair short and neat.
Use a razor or trimmer to shave or trim the area around the soul patch, leaving only the strip of hair directly below the lower lip.
3. Keep your Soul Patch Clean
Like any facial hair style, a soul patch requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Wash your face and beard regularly with a gentle cleanser to keep the hair clean and prevent any buildup of dirt or oil.
4. Moisturize and Condition
To keep your soul patch looking healthy and shiny, make sure to moisturize and condition the hair regularly.
Use a beard oil or balm to keep the hair soft and manageable, and prevent any dryness or irritation.
5. Patience is Key
Growing a soul patch beard, like any beard style, requires patience.
It may take several weeks or even months for the hair to grow to the desired length and thickness, so be patient and give your soul patch time to flourish.
Maintaining a Soul Patch Beard
Once you have grown your soul patch, it is important to maintain it to keep it looking sharp and stylish.
Here are some tips for maintaining your soul patch beard:
1. Trim Regularly
To keep your soul patch looking neat and well-groomed, it is important to trim it regularly.
Use a pair of sharp scissors or a beard trimmer to trim the hair to the desired length and shape, making sure to keep the edges clean and straight.
2. Shape and Define
To enhance the look of your soul patch, consider shaping and defining the edges of the patch.
Use a razor or trimmer to clean up the edges and create a sharp and defined shape that complements your facial features.
3. Comb and Brush
To prevent any tangles or knots in your soul patch, use a beard comb or brush to keep the hair smooth and tidy.
This will also help distribute any beard oil or balm evenly throughout the hair, keeping it healthy and manageable.
4. Maintain Good Hygiene
Just like any facial hair style, a soul patch beard requires good hygiene to keep it looking clean and fresh.
Wash your face and beard regularly, and make sure to clean and moisturize the hair to prevent any dryness or irritation.
5. Experiment with Styling
One of the great things about a soul patch is its versatility. Experiment with different styles and shapes to find the look that suits you best.
Whether you prefer a shorter and tidier patch or a longer and more dramatic soul patch, make sure to style it in a way that reflects your personality and style.
Beard Styles that Can Go with Soul Patch
There are many styles that soul patch can pair with to give a bold and creative style that make a statement:
1. Full Beard: A full beard can provide a striking contrast with a soul patch, creating a strong, bold look.
2. Van Dyke Beard: The Van Dyke beard combines a soul patch with a mustache, creating a distinctive and stylish look.
3. Goatee: A goatee beard, which consists of hair on the chin but not the cheeks, can pair well with a soul patch for a clean and modern appearance.
4. Circle Beard: The circle beard combines a soul patch with a rounded beard shape, creating a refined and polished look.
5. Anchor Beard: An anchor beard, a combination of a soul patch, chin beard, and mustache, can create a unique and eye-catching style.
6. Stubble Beard: For a low-maintenance yet trendy look, pair a soul patch with light stubble on the cheeks and chin.
7. Balbo Beard: The Balbo beard features a soul patch, chin beard, and mustache that are disconnected, creating a cool and contemporary style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a soul patch look good?
Whether a soul patch looks good is subjective and depends on personal style and facial features.
Some people may pull it off well, while others may not.
What is the best facial hair style for patchy beards?
The best facial hair style for patchy beards is generally a short stubble or trimmed beard.
This helps to minimize the appearance of patchiness and create a more even look.
How do you style a soul patch with a beard?
To style a soul patch with a beard, keep the patch neatly trimmed and groomed.
Ensure the rest of the beard is also well-maintained to create a cohesive and stylish overall look.
Who wears a soul patch?
A soul patch can be worn by anyone who likes the style and can pull it off with confidence.
It is a versatile and bold facial hair choice that can suit various personalities.
Final Words
A soul patch beard is a stylish and unique facial hair choice that can add a touch of individuality and flair to your appearance.
By following the steps, we have discussed in this article, you can grow and maintain a soul patch that complements your facial features and matches your overall style.
With regular grooming and care, your soul patch will always look sharp and stylish, making you stand out from the crowd.
References:
- https://www.wild-willies.com/a/blog/7-best-styles-of-the-soul-patch
- https://theruggedbros.com/blogs/news/soul-patch-what-is-it-and-why-the-heck-is-it-called-that
- https://uk.braun.com/en-gb/male-grooming/facial-hair-styles/soul-patch-beard
- https://triviahappy.com/articles/the-meaning-of-the-soul-patch-a-brief-history
Pyo Merez, a social psychologist and avid writer, specializes in unraveling the intricate relationship between gentlemen and society.
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