The quarantine crisis is giving more men than ever the confidence – and privacy – to start growing a beard.
The pandemic has led to once-in-a-generation rationing measures, limiting consumer supplies from toilet paper to flour.
And though many stores have now relaxed their rationing policies, memories of shoppers gobbling up supplies are still fresh.
The every-man-for-himself mentality soon took over courteous public interactions, as we faced the beginning of a series of restrictions on public travel.
In his televised statement to the nation on March 16, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that following reports by the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) – which said we had approached the fast growth part of the curve – we needed to go further.
He said: “Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel.
“We need people to start working from home where they possibly can. And you should avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues.”
But it wasn’t enough. On 23 March, the so-called lock-down began, closing all social venues and non-essential premises.
And that included barbers, hair salons and mobile hairdressers.
Age of the beard?
As the UK officially approaches week 5 of the lock-down, discussions across Whatsapp street groups have shifted from what we miss most about pre-covid to something far more important.
The hair and beard situation.
Quarantine reminds us of what’s really important in life. And for many men out there, this includes never taking a trip to the barbers for granted ever again.
But for all the fears that missing three months’ worth of haircuts bring, there’s never been a better time for experimentation.
Others – cautious about venturing beyond the five o’clock shadow – still prefer the clean look for video conference calls.
Not only are some men embracing their locks – some are taking the plunge to grow a beard.
The Invisible Edge is just one razor blade company who are helping many men keep sharp, with their starter kits offering an all-in-one set for achieving a close finish.
With time a-plenty, there are numerous guides online to visit, with sites offering beard oil, the best combs and, for the bravest – cut throat razors.
For those looking to grow it out for the summer, Men’s Health have a handy how-to guide for perfecting your closest and smoothest shave yet.
Playing it fast and loose, or winning by trimming, #liveyourbestbeard this quarantine!
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