Growing a Beard

What can I do to make my beard grow thicker?

There is nothing you can do.  Young men can expect that their facial hair development will increase over time.  Some may grow beards as a teenager, while others may never be able to. Do not use hair growth products – Rogaine is not the answer!

I feel self-conscious about my beard and am considering shaving it off, is this the right thing to do?

No! Shaving is not the answer.  Many beards are misunderstood, stand firm, grow it proudly and seek out others with beards.  The beard is back in Hockeytown and if you are a true fan you will let it grow!

Who are good role models for growing a playoff beard?

Many past Red Wings have grown playoff beards. Kris Draper, Henrik Zetterberg, and Johan Frazen have all grown full beards in the past.  On the other hand, former Red Wing Brendan Shanahan chose to grow a playoff goatee rather than a beard.

Are there additional benefits to growing a beard?

Yes, there are many hidden advantages to growing a beard.  Some of them include, but are not limited to, insulation - a beard may keep your face warmer in the ever-unpredictable Michigan climate.  Time saver – not shaving in the morning means 15 more minutes of sleep.  Eco-friendly – not using razors or shaving gels may mean less trash in landfills.

How long should I grow my beard?

This one is a tough one, do you mean length as in how long should the beard grow or duration as in how long do I grow my beard?  Length – take a look at the Biggest Little Band from Texas, ZZ top – there’s no such thing as too long.  As for Duration, grow and wear your beard until your team is in possession of that precious hardware…hopefully in June.

Why do hockey players grow beards during the playoffs?

Growing a “playoff beard” is believed to bring good luck to one’s team.  The tradition began in the 1980’s and has developed since then.  Some players choose to grow full beards while others do not grow ones at all.

When is the best time to grow a beard?

Now is the best time to grow a beard!  Not only will you look cool, but you’ll be supporting your favorite NHL team at the same time!

My wife wants to grow a playoff beard, what should I do?

Try telling her about the Red Wings Beard-A-Thon.  Instead of growing her own, she can pledge money towards her favorite player with the proceeds going to the Red Wings Foundation.  Not only will she remain clean shaven, but she’ll also be supporting a good cause!

Maintaining a Beard

Once I grow a beard, how do I maintain it?

Purchase a beard trimmer and use the same shampoo you already use for your head.  Comb your beard often to remove any tangles. Conditioner is recommended but not mandatory.

When I grow a beard I notice a small rash on my face, what can I do to prevent this in the future?

To get rid of the rash, shampoo your beard with a dandruff shampoo two or three times each week…you’re a hockey fan, tough it out.

The color of my beard is different from that on my head, what can I do?

Many hockey sweaters incorporate more than one color.  For the playoff beard grower, this is not a symbol of shame, merely that you are a true hockey fan.  If you insist on a uniform color, we recommend that you purchase a hair dye specifically developed for facial hair.  Do not use hair dye intended for your hair because it is not developed for thicker facial hair or the sensitive skin of the face.

I’ve been growing a beard for two weeks, how long should I wait before I start to shape my beard?

There’s no reason to feel that your beard requires shaping, the playoffs aren’t supposed to be pretty. 


My girlfriend complains about my beard being uncomfortable against her face, what should I do to soften my beard?

This is often a point of contention in many relationships – it’s up to you, but you may want to call a “time out” until the playoffs are over.  Your team needs you, your full attention and your devotion.  One relationship at a time, beard grower.


The playoffs are over and I am now ready to shave my beard, what should I do?

Well, hockey fans.  Hopefully it’s June and you deserve a treat – find an old fashioned barber for a true shaving experience.  If you are a do-it-yourselfer, wait at least twenty minutes after waking up to shave. If your beard is long, use scissors to shorten the beard before using a razor.  Avoid nicks by easing up as you go over the neck line. 


My beard is unruly, what areas should I focus on trimming to clean it up?

Most people trim their beards along the neckline and on their cheeks.  This will provide you with a cleaner looking beard.