How To Grow a Mustache: 10 Growth & Style Tips

In a world where beards have ruled the grooming scene for the last decade, the mustache is making a strong comeback. 

Whether you’re going for that classic, dapper look or something a little more adventurous, a well-groomed mustache is an excellent way to show off your style and personality. However, growing and styling a mustache isn’t just a matter of letting the hair do its thing. It takes time, patience, and a few insider tricks to get it right.

Thankfully, we at The Beard Club know a thing or two about facial hair. If you’re ready to embark on the glorious journey of mustache growth, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 essential tips to grow and style your mustache like a pro.

1. Be Patient 

First things first: growing a mustache takes time. We know you might be itching to sport that perfect handlebar or a bushy chevron, but patience is key. 

On average, facial hair grows about 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters per day, so you’re looking at a couple of weeks (or even months) to get enough growth to start shaping your ‘stache.

To maintain growth, don’t be tempted to trim too early. Let your mustache grow for at least 4-6 weeks before you start styling. This gives the hair enough length and density to shape into your desired look.

2. Embrace the Awkward Phase

Here’s the harsh truth: there’s going to be an awkward phase. 

The first few weeks might leave you with patchy, uneven growth that’s far from your mustache goals. But don’t get discouraged. Every great mustache goes through this awkward stage, and pushing through is what separates the mustache masters from the quitters.

Stay committed, and don’t shave it off in frustration. You’ll be rewarded with a full, glorious mustache if you can get through this rough patch.

3. Choose the Right Mustache Style for Your Face

Not all mustaches are created equal, and what works for one guy might not work for another. Choosing a mustache style that suits your face shape and hair type is crucial for pulling off a killer look. 

Here are a few classic styles to consider:

• Chevron: Thick and full, this mustache style covers the upper lip and is a bold choice for those with thick hair.
• Handlebar: This style features curled tips and works best for guys with longer mustache hair and a bit of patience.
• Pencil: Thin and neat, the pencil mustache offers a more subtle, classic vibe.
• Walrus: A large, bushy mustache that hangs over the upper lip, ideal for those who want to make a statement.

Before you start shaping, do a little research on different styles and match them to your face shape and personal style. The right choice can enhance your facial features and elevate your entire look.

4. Keep Your Mustache Clean

A mustache can be a magnet for food, drinks, and other debris (you know what we’re talking about). Keeping it clean is essential for both hygiene and appearance. Wash your mustache daily with a gentle beard wash or a mild shampoo to remove any buildup. Don’t forget to rinse thoroughly and pat dry.

If you’re sporting a longer mustache, consider carrying a small comb with you to keep it tidy throughout the day. This will also help prevent stray hairs from sneaking into your mouth during meals.

5. Moisturize Your Mustache

Just like the hair on your head, your mustache needs moisture to stay healthy. A dry, brittle mustache won’t look good, and it’ll be more prone to breakage and split ends. Invest in a good beard oil or beard cream to keep your mustache hydrated, soft, and shiny.

Rub a few drops of beard oil between your palms and massage it into your mustache, making sure to get down to the skin beneath. This will not only hydrate your facial hair but also help nourish the skin underneath, preventing itchiness and dryness.

6. Train Your Mustache

Want to shape your mustache into a specific style like a handlebar or chevron? You’re going to need to train it. Mustache hair doesn’t always grow the way you want it to, but with a little guidance, you can coax it into place.

Use a fine-tooth comb or a mustache brush to regularly comb your mustache hairs in the direction you want them to grow. Over time, this will help the hair lay naturally in that direction. For more stubborn styles like the handlebar, a bit of mustache wax can help keep things in place.

7. Trim With Precision

Once your mustache has had a few weeks to grow in, it’s time to start shaping it. Regular trimming will keep your mustache looking sharp and well-groomed. Use a pair of trimming scissors or a trimmer for precise control. Trim the hairs that grow over your upper lip, but don’t go too short — your mustache should still look full and thick.

Start slow. You can always trim more, but once it’s gone, it’s gone. Trim little by little to avoid accidentally overdoing it.

8. Use Mustache Wax for Styling

If you’ve got a longer mustache or want to pull off a more defined style (like a handlebar), mustache wax is going to be your best friend. It provides the hold and structure you need to keep your ‘stache looking sharp all day long.

Warm a small amount of wax between your fingers, then apply it to your mustache. For a handlebar style, twist the ends between your fingers and gently curl them upward. For a more natural look, just comb the wax through your mustache for a sleek finish.

9. Eat Right for Better Hair Growth

Believe it or not, what you eat can have a big impact on how quickly and thickly your mustache grows. Beard growth foods are rich in protein, biotin, and vitamins A, B, C, and E all contribute to healthy hair growth. 

Make sure your diet includes:

• Eggs: Packed with protein and biotin.
• Spinach: Loaded with folates, iron, and vitamins A and C.
• Nuts: A good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote hair growth.
• Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A.

Consider taking a beard growth supplement with biotin if your hair growth is slow — biotin has been shown to improve hair thickness and strength.

10. Keep the Rest of Your Face Groomed

A great mustache can lose its impact if the rest of your grooming game is off. If you’re going for a clean-shaven look with your mustache, make sure the rest of your face is smooth and free of stray hairs. If you’re rocking a beard or some stubble along with your mustache, keep everything neatly trimmed and well-maintained.

Use a quality razor (like the straight razor from The Beard Club) to keep the rest of your facial hair in check. Regular touch-ups around your mustache will keep it as the focal point of your look.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Afraid To Experiment

Growing a mustache is a form of self-expression. Whether you’re experimenting with a bold new style or keeping things classic, don’t be afraid to switch it up and try something new. The beauty of facial hair is that it grows back, so there’s no harm in taking risks.

Take photos as you experiment with different styles. It’ll help you see what looks best on you, and you’ll have a record of your mustache-growing journey.

Should You Grow a Mustache? 

Before you dive headfirst into mustache-growing territory, you might be asking yourself, "Should I grow a mustache?" The answer depends on a few factors, but here’s why you should seriously consider it.

First off, growing a mustache is a bold style move. It shows that you’re confident, willing to stand out, and ready to experiment with your look. A well-groomed mustache can give you a classic, timeless appearance, or it can help you pull off a more adventurous and edgy vibe. It’s versatile, allowing you to switch up your style depending on your mood or the occasion.

Another reason to grow a mustache? It's the ultimate conversation starter. Whether it’s a big, bushy walrus or a sleek pencil ‘stache, people notice a well-groomed mustache and will often compliment or comment on it. Plus, with mustaches coming back into style, now’s the perfect time to embrace the trend and make it your own.

Finally, if you’re someone who already enjoys grooming and maintaining a beard, adding a mustache to your facial hair repertoire is a natural next step. It can enhance your existing look and give you even more ways to showcase your style.

The Mustache Is Back

Growing a mustache is an adventure, and it’s not for the faint of heart. With the right care, patience, and a few pro tips, you can rock a mustache that grows thick and shows off your personality. It’s not just about the hair — it’s about the confidence you bring with it.

Sources:

Biotin (oral route) | Mayo Clinic

How Long Does It Take to Grow a Beard? Tips, Genetics, and More | Healthline

Sweet potatoes: Nutrition and Health Benefits | Healthline