How to Train Your Mustache to Lie the Way You Want

Some mustaches grow in like they were drawn on; most grow in with opinions of their own: hairs splitting over the lip, kicking sideways, refusing the part.

Combing and wax can guide the hair into a neater shape. This styles the hair you already have; it does not change the direction it grows from the skin. Here’s how to shape and maintain it in six steps.

Factors That Influence Mustache Growth Direction

Several factors can influence the direction your mustache grows.

1. Genetics: The natural growth direction of your mustache is largely determined by genetics. The texture, density, and pattern of your facial hair often run in the family.
2. Natural growth pattern: Follicle shape and the angle at which hair emerges influence its texture and direction. Styling works with the visible hair rather than changing the follicle.
3. Length and texture: Mustache hair length and texture both matter. Longer facial hair tends to curl more than shorter hair, and coarse hair is usually harder to train.
4. Grooming habits: Combing or brushing can arrange the hairs in a consistent direction. The result is a styled shape, not a permanent change in growth direction.
5. Use of styling products: Products like mustache wax or beard balm help set the hairs in place. They add hold and structure, which makes training much easier.
6. Sleeping habits: Pressure during sleep may leave the hairs bent or flattened. Dampen and gently comb them to reset the shape.

Preparing for Mustache Training

Just like training your beard, you need to set yourself up properly before you start training your mustache.

Choose A Mustache Style

Before you begin training, decide what kind of mustache you want. Your routine will depend on the shape you are trying to create. Popular options include:

• Handlebar Mustache
• Dali Mustache
• French Mustache

Gather Essential Tools

Once you know the style you want, gather the tools that will help you shape and maintain it. These may include:

• Beard comb or mustache brush
• Short scissors
• Detail trimmer
• Mustache Wax
• Straightener (optional)

Steps to Train Your Mustache

Now that you’ve chosen your desired mustache style and gathered the essential tools, it’s time to start training it.

Step 1: Keep It Clean and Healthy

Wash your mustache with a gentle cleanser, rinse well and pat it dry. Use conditioner separately if the hair needs softening.

A clean mustache is easier to manage, easier to style, and less likely to become dry or unruly.

Step 2: Comb and Brush Regularly

Comb or brush gently in the direction you want the hairs to lie. Use a small comb or brush that moves through the hair without tugging, then apply a little wax if you need hold.

Step 3: Apply Mustache Wax

Mustache wax gives you the hold and structure needed to shape your mustache into your preferred style. Warm a small amount between your fingers, then spread it evenly through the hairs.

After that, use a beard comb or brush to guide the hairs into the direction you want them to stay.

Step 4: Trim and Shape

Regularly trim your mustache to maintain your chosen style. Use short scissors or a detail trimmer for precision work. Be careful not to cut too much at once, since it is always easier to remove more hair later than to fix an over-trimmed mustache.

Step 5: Use a Straightener (Optional)

A heated tool can temporarily straighten longer hairs, but it is optional and should only be used if its instructions allow use on mustaches. Keep hot surfaces away from the lips and skin. Follow the device directions and use dry hair, a suitable heat protectant and the lowest effective heat setting. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting heat exposure.

Step 6: Stay Consistent With Your Mustache Care Routine

Repeat the styling routine as needed. Added length may make some hairs easier to guide, but stubborn growth patterns can still need wax, careful trimming or a different shape.

Training Questions, Answered

Can you really train a mustache to grow in a direction?

You can guide how the existing hairs lie with a comb and wax. That does not permanently change the direction they grow from the skin.

How long does mustache training take?

Combing and wax can change the appearance in one styling session. There is no guaranteed number of weeks after which a mustache will stay in place on its own; length, texture and the chosen style all matter.

What tools do I need to train a mustache?

A small comb or brush, mustache wax, and short scissors or a detail trimmer are enough for most styling routines. Heated tools are optional.

The Beard Style Verdict

Work with your natural growth pattern. Comb gently, use a little wax for hold and trim carefully to keep the shape you want.