Side burns are part of the natural pattern of men's hair growth. Side burns grow at the sides of the face in front of the ears where the hair grows down along the face. Some people use the side burns to connect to a beard and moustache, while others wear side burns alone.
When growing and grooming side burns, there are some easy guidelines to remember to be sure that they look their best. Typically, shorter haircuts feature shorter side burns, while longer haircuts feature longer ones. These rules, however, are flexible, which means that there are many variations available if you want to take a more nontraditional route.
Longer side burns help balance a longer chin when worn with a longer hairstyle. While shorter sideburns complement a weak chin area, again they work best when paired with a short haircut.
Side burns should be carefully trimmed to make sure they are even in length and width on both sides for a neat appearance. Typically side burns are worn a standard width while variations in length are more common. Lengths to consider include short, medium, long and extra long.
If you wish to vary from the norm on width, you might wish to consider a mutton chop look. Muttonchops are usually long and narrow at the temples, while wider at the jaw line. Some muttonchops might even reach the chin area. Classically muttonchops are both longer and wider than a long or extra long side burn. Muttonchops are worn both trimmed and bushy. Muttonchops may also connect to the mustache.
In order to groom side burns you will need a comb, a pair of scissors or an electric hair trimmer. Use the comb to pull the hair that needs trimming toward you. Go slowly when trimming to be sure everything ends up even in the end.
 | You may have it a little easier when it comes to grooming, but you still have some work to do to look your best. For starters, washing means more than splashing water around on your face. Use facial cleansers matched to your skin type to deep-clean your skin. Then move on to the details, like trimming any beard or mustache and removing any stray hairs on your face. |
 | Tips on skin care for men, including what products you need and how to develop a skin care regime that's right for your skin type. |
 | Mustache types have become so widespread and accepted that what style a man chooses can say much about his personality and sense of style. |
 | Knowing how to trim a beard is knowledge every man should possess. |
I have learned that most men don't like to shave. At least, the men I know would rather forego this male ritual. I've heard men complain of getting razor burn, (the red, sore bumps), after a shave, and I've actually seen men walk around with bits of spittle and toilet paper dotting their faces. Men may be surprised to learn that women sometimes have the same troubles when they shave their legs and armpits. |
