How to Grow a Mustache [Beginner's Guide]

Tom Selleck. Franz Joseph I. Charlie Chaplin. The mustache has undergone numerous variations over the past centuries, going from the chosen style of German aristocrats to the mark of a true biker. Yet, despite its former popularity, it fell out of style for much of the 20th century. 

The mustache became something of a pariah, restricted to fringe groups. No longer! The mustache is making a comeback. Growing a mustache is now the hottest fashion for men. Everyone from Henry Cavill to Timothee Chalamet has sported a mustache. 

But if you're new to growing a mustache, you've got to be smart about it. After all, you don't want to venture into To Catch a Predator territory (you know what I'm talking about) or give someone the wrong idea about your political ideology. So, listen up. Here's how to grow a mustache for absolute beginners. 

In this guide:

• Decide on Your Mustache Style
• How to Grow a Mustache
• Maintaining Your Mustache

Decide on Your Mustache Style

Don't just start growing your mustache without a clear idea of your desired style. It's a recipe for disaster. We recommend trying a few different styles to see which suits your face. Choosing the right mustache isn't quite as simple as it is for beards. For one thing, your face shape is less important when determining the right style. 

Remember, not all mustaches are created equal – and some are just plain unfashionable. While the handlebar mustache has withstood the test of time, others, like the Hungarian or Toothbrush (aka the Hitler), aren't quite as popular today. 

As of 2025, the current most popular styles include:

• Chevron Mustache: A thick, straightforward style that covers the top lip, requiring regular trims to maintain its neat appearance​.
• Handlebar Mustache: Known for its distinctive curved ends, this style uses wax to keep the tips styled and is favored for its unique look​.
• Walrus Mustache: A bushy and long mustache that covers the upper lip completely, known for its rugged appeal​.
• Pencil Mustache: A thin line above the upper lip, evoking an old Hollywood elegance, requiring precise grooming​.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of mustaches. We've actually already covered the best mustache styles for 2025 – check out those articles to spark your imagination. 

How to Grow a Mustache

Let's get down to the basics of how to grow a mustache. Follow these steps:

1. Patience is Crucial

Your mustache won't grow overnight – not unless you're some kind of hirsute hero. Generally speaking, the average man's facial hair grows around 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters per day. Depending on your preferred mustache style, you can expect it to take around a few weeks to a month to achieve a decent mustache. 

Of course, if you're going for something like a handlebar, the sides of the mustache can take several months to reach the final length. 

We recommend leaving your mustache to grow for 4-6 weeks before you start styling. Sure, it might look a little unkempt at first, but it gives you a blank canvas from which to craft your desired style.

2. Stick With It

Too many men reach the stubble stage and begin developing a bit of an itch, then abandon growing a mustache altogether. That's a mistake! Remember, the first few weeks are always the most awkward stage. But once you push through, you'll realize your perseverance is worth it.

3. Have the Right Tools

You're only as good as your tools. To grow the perfect mustache, you'll need two things:

• An electric trimmer is an essential part of the toolkit. It helps you to tidy up the edges and can "debulk" your mustache. (Unless you're going for the Walrus, in which case, rock on!) You'll want a trimmer with interchangeable heads, allowing for some fine-tuned detailing or to square off the edges. 
• A pair of mustache scissors are perfect for adding the finishing touches. That includes trimming any stray hairs or getting that crisp straight line. Our pressed steel mustache scissors are built to last and come with our 90-day money-back guarantee.

You might also consider a mustache comb. Paired with the scissors, it makes trimming your mustache that much easier – plus, you can use it for styling. 

4. Train Your Mustache

We're not talking about your mustache doing a double backflip. You need to train the hair to grow a specific way, depending on your mustache style. This can also help cover any mustache gaps. 

You can use either a comb or brush to push the hairs in the direction you want them to grow. Gradually, they'll conform to this shape. However, if in doubt, a bit of mustache wax goes a long way. 

5. A Mustache to Dye For

For the truly avant-garde mustache connoisseur, simply growing a mustache isn't enough. These fashion-forward individuals might consider dying their mustache. While you could go blonde or brown, it's worth considering a bolder color. How about you go blue for Movember? 

Maintaining Your Mustache

Keeping your mustache well-maintained isn't just about looking good—it also promotes healthier skin and hair. Start with a good wash like Beard Sorcery's Beard Wash and Restore, which helps remove dirt and oil, prevent skin irritation and ensure your mustache looks clean and fresh.

Using Beard Sorcery's Beard Oil after washing can be really beneficial. It's designed to moisturize not just your mustache but also the skin underneath, which can prevent dryness and make your mustache softer and easier to manage.

For styling and maintaining the shape of your mustache throughout the day, Beard Sorcery's Mustache Wax is great. It provides a strong hold, which is especially useful for more elaborate styles like the handlebar. Plus, it conditions the hairs, keeping them strong and well-groomed.