At Skalp, we usually focus on hair loss, thinning hair, and the clean confidence of a shaved head. But today, we’re flipping the conversation — from the scalp to the chin.
Because while the shaved head has become a defining modern style, the beard trend continues to grow stronger than ever.
So what’s behind this movement?
Is it fashion? Identity? Confidence? Or something deeper?
Let’s break it down.
The Rise of the Modern Beard
The popularity of beard styles for men has evolved significantly over the past few decades.
In the 1990s and early 2000s, facial hair was fairly limited to:
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The goatee
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Designer stubble
The moustache had largely fallen out of favour until campaigns like Movember Foundation helped revive it for a cause.
Then came the resurgence.
A few years later, the full beard returned — and not subtly.
The so-called hipster beard exploded in popularity.
This wasn’t accidental stubble. It was:
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Full
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Textured
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Thick
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Slightly rugged but intentionally styled
Particularly popular among men in their 20s and 30s, this look represented more than fashion — it signalled confidence and individuality.
Unlike earlier trends, this beard wasn’t about neat lines alone. It embraced natural growth with controlled shaping.
And importantly — it wasn’t limited to men with full heads of hair.
The Evolution of Beard Styles for Men
The 1990s and Early 2000s: Minimal and Controlled
In the late 20th century, facial hair options were limited:
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The goatee
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Designer stubble
The moustache, once dominant, had largely disappeared until awareness campaigns like Movember Foundation helped bring it back into public conversation.
During this period, facial hair was neat, subtle, and tightly groomed.
The Return of the Full Beard
Then came the resurgence.
The modern full beard re-emerged strongly in the early 2010s. This wasn’t accidental growth — it was intentional, thick, and structured.
Often referred to as the “hipster beard,” this look featured:
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Dense, full growth
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Natural texture
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Slightly rugged edges
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Deliberate shaping
It became particularly popular among men in their 20s and 30s, but the appeal extended far beyond one demographic.
Is the Beard a Response to Hair Loss?
There’s a common assumption that men grow beards to compensate for thinning hair or baldness.
The reality is more nuanced.
Beards are worn by men across all hair types — full hair, thinning hair, and shaved heads alike. What has emerged instead is a powerful style combination:
The Shaved Head with Beard Look
The shaved head paired with a well-maintained beard has become a defining modern aesthetic. It projects:
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Confidence
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Structure
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Masculinity
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Clean intentional styling
For many men experiencing hair loss, choosing a shaved look isn’t about giving up — it’s about taking control.
When combined with facial hair, it creates balance and strong facial framing.
Why the Beard Trend Is Here to Stay
While peak “hipster beard” culture may have softened, the beard itself hasn’t disappeared. Instead, it has matured.
Today’s beard styles range from:
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Short boxed beards
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Heavy stubble
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Sculpted full beards
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Natural mid-length growth
The cultural shift has also been influenced by movements like Decembeard (inspired by Movember), which connect facial hair with charitable causes and awareness campaigns.
More importantly, the beard now represents freedom of expression. Less time shaving. Less conformity. More individuality.
And trends rooted in identity tend to last.
Confidence Starts at the Scalp
Facial hair is one part of personal style. But for men struggling with hair loss, the real confidence shift often begins at the scalp.
What Is Scalp Micropigmentation?
Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-surgical hair loss solution that replicates the appearance of natural hair follicles using precise pigment application.
Often referred to as a hairline tattoo, SMP:
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Recreates a clean shaved hairline
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Adds density to thinning areas
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Camouflages scars
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Delivers a low-maintenance, timeless look
The shaved head look is effortless, sharp, and masculine — and when combined with a well-groomed beard, the result is a powerful, intentional style.
The Modern Look: Clean, Sharp, Confident
Beards may continue to evolve, but one thing remains consistent — men are choosing styles that reflect confidence and control.
If you’re considering embracing the shaved head look, Scalp Micropigmentation offers a permanent, low-maintenance solution that eliminates the need to hide, style, or worry about thinning hair.
Learn more about how Skalp can help you achieve a defined hairline and complete your look with confidence.
Skalp® have clinics around the world. We have clinics in London and Manchester and Edinburgh.
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