If we are being honest, IPL has become the grooming runway for the modern man. Apart from the game, some of the league’s sought-after players have also been perfecting their beard game, the beard fade, specifically. If you look at the recent look of IPL champions, faded beards are having a major moment. If you’ve ever sat in your barber’s chair and said, “Just give me something like Kohli,” you probably need to be more specific. Here’s how to actually talk to your barber and walk out with a beard fade that looks like your favourite player of the season.
What Is a Beard Fade?
Think of it like a haircut fade but for your face. It’s the smooth, gradual blend from your hair into your beard, usually starting around the sideburns and tapering down toward your jawline. Done right, it gives you a sharp, polished look and contoured look.
However, does it suit everyone? And more importantly, it is that one-style-fit-all trend? The answer is no. "A faded beard style isn’t a one-size-fits-all look; it’s a tailored blend of clean lines and natural texture, designed around your unique face shape and beard growth pattern," says Shawn Peppin, Creative Director and Trainer for JCB & Bounce Salons. Therefore, the most important thing to keep in mind is your face shape, hair growth pattern and to be well-prepared for your service. "I advise clients not to trim beforehand; full growth gives the barber the canvas they need to execute the fade with precision," adds Peppin. He also suggests going in with a few reference images of people who match your face shape. It gives your barber more clarity and helps take a personalised approach. "The more personalised the approach, the sharper the result, just like the well-groomed fades you see on Virat Kohli or Shreyas Iyer. Visuals are incredibly helpful in ensuring your barber understands and delivers the exact look you’re going for.”," he adds.
Additionally, it always makes for a better case if you're clear with your barber about what you have in mind with faded beard style. "Request a fade that tapers gradually from the sideburns down to the jawline or neckline, based on your personal preference," says Peppin. Read a bit about it before stepping inside a salon; whether you want a tight fade or blended one, it all depends on your preference. "Mention your cheek line preference, whether you like a sharp defined edge like Virat Kohli or a softer finish like Bhuvneshwar Kumar," adds Peppin.
Essential Tips for Maintenance
While it looks extremely stylish and clean, it definitely is demanding in terms of maintenance and consistency. "I recommend a cleanup every 5 to 10 days, depending on the beard growth, to keep the gradient sharp and well-defined," she adds. Faded beard may also lead to ingrown hair and therefore, Peppin suggests regular exfoliation to maintain healthy skin under the beard. To keep your beard soft and manageable, use a lightweight beard oil for daily nourishment. If you have dry or unruly hair, a beard cream or balm is a must; it helps control frizz, adds discipline, and leaves the beard feeling smooth and easier to style. "And don’t overlook the small details: keeping your neckline and cheek line clean is what elevates the entire look, making it appear polished and intentional rather than messy," concludes Peppin.
