So, you’ve got a round face and you’re looking to grow a beard. That’s awesome! But finding the right style can feel a little tricky. The key is to create the illusion of length and angles to balance out the roundness. Think of it as a bit of a visual trick – we’re aiming to make your face appear longer and leaner.
Don’t worry, it’s not rocket science. With a little guidance, you can rock a beard that complements your features perfectly. We’ll explore several styles, from short and neat to longer and more majestic, ensuring there’s an option for every taste and level of beard commitment.
Understanding Your Face Shape
Before we dive into specific beard styles, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about round faces. A round face is characterized by its equal width and length. Your cheeks are usually full, and your jawline is softly rounded, rather than angular.
Knowing this helps us choose styles that will add definition and structure, making your face look less round and more balanced.
Beard Styles to Try
The Goatee
A classic choice, the goatee adds a touch of sophistication and can visually lengthen the face. Keep it neatly trimmed to avoid adding extra roundness. Experiment with different lengths to find what works best for you.

The Short Boxed Beard
This style involves a short, well-groomed beard with sharp, defined lines. The clean edges help to create a more angular look, balancing the roundness of your face. This is a low-maintenance option that’s perfect for the busy guy.

The Balbo Beard
Similar to the goatee, but with a connected mustache, the Balbo beard adds a touch of ruggedness. The combination of the mustache and goatee creates a visual lengthening effect, which is ideal for round faces.

The Anchor Beard
This style combines a goatee with strategically placed sideburns, creating a more defined jawline. Keep the sideburns relatively neat to avoid overwhelming your face.

Longer Styles (With Caution)
While longer beards can be stylish, they can also emphasize a round face if not styled correctly. If you prefer a longer beard, make sure to keep it well-groomed and styled to add some definition. Consider adding some length on the chin to elongate the face.
A well-maintained longer beard can still look great, just be mindful of the overall shape and length. You may need to experiment to find the perfect balance.

Styles to Avoid (Generally)
- Full, round beards that are the same width as your face
- Very short, barely-there stubble (unless meticulously styled)
- Unkempt beards lacking any defined shape
Remember, these are general guidelines. The best beard style for you will ultimately depend on your personal preferences, hair type, and facial features. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what makes you feel confident and stylish!