The Definitive Handlebar Mustache Guide: How to Grow and Style It

If you’ve mastered the standard Chevron mustache, you’ve reached stage 1 in your journey. Taking your mustache to the next level might require a few more twists and turns. But it’ll give you something to play with as you muse over your morning coffee or plan your next dastardly deeds. 

I’m talking, of course, about the handlebar mustache. As probably the most famous mustache in the world, it’s certain to turn heads no matter where you go. Once, in the early 20th century, it was extremely popular – everyone from German aristocrats to English gentlemen sported the style. However, it’s now reserved for men of dedication and style.

So, if you’re planning how to grow a handlebar mustache, you’re in luck. We’ve put together a complete guide, from what it is to how to style it. 

What is a Handlebar Mustache?

We all know a handlebar mustache when we see one. The textbook handlebar involves a hair over the upper lip, which moves upwards in a prominent outer curl until it resembles the gentle curve of the handlebars of a bike or motorcycle – hence the name. 

This can range from a gradual curve to something a little more hair-raising – think the majestic Dali. Some people go a little wild and classify the Chevron or Walrus as part of the Handlebar family. They’d be wrong. Neither of these mustaches involves the twirly bits at the end – it’s just not the same.

Types of Handlebar Mustache

There isn’t one definitive handlebar mustache. Instead, the basic design comes in several flavors. These include:

• Classic Handlebar Mustache: Characterized by its medium size and signature style, this mustache ends in refined curls, offering a balanced blend of elegance and boldness.
• Petite Handlebar Mustache: A smaller iteration of the classic handlebar, this style maintains the iconic curly ends but in a more subtle and refined form, suitable for those seeking a less dominant feature.
• Imperial Mustache: This mustache is known for its width and moderate fullness, featuring curls that add a touch of aristocratic flair without being overly bushy.
• Hungarian Mustache: Remarkably wide and exceptionally bushy, this mustache is a statement piece with its thick curls, epitomizing the traditional robust style.
• English Mustache: Meticulously groomed to achieve a slim and precise look, this mustache is defined by its thin structure and pointed ends, reflecting a sharp and tidy appearance.

Remember, each of these examples is equally a handlebar mustache. Most people go for the classic or petite style – however, if you want to make a real statement, resurrecting the Hungarian is sure to give a signature look.

How to Grow a Handlebar Mustache

You’ve decided to grow a handlebar mustache. The question is, how long does it take? If you’re already starting with any facial hair, you’ll have a head start on your competition. But going from fresh-faced to effortless debonaire will take around 3-4 months of constant growth. 

It’s not the bulk of the mustache that’s the problem. Rather, because of the twirls on the end, you’ll need to grow the outer hairs of your mouth much longer. It requires some serious patience. You might also have some patchiness or gaps in your mustache, which are tricky to hide.

Follow these steps to grow a handlebar mustache:

1. Grow It, Don’t Trim It

When you start out, you’re full of patience and anticipation. After just a few weeks, that quickly turns into frustration. “How long is this going to take?” you wonder. It’s tempting during this interim period to play around with your newly grown hair. 

Maybe you want to trim the upper lip as it’s annoying you or look less disheveled. Honestly, don’t. Suck it up and grow it out. Only when your mustache has achieved the desired length you can get to work cutting it into shape. After all, you won’t know which hair you need until everything is grown.

2. Keep It Combed

Use a mustache comb once per day to remove any detritus and to train your mustache to grow in the conventional fashion. That means combing from the center to the sides – you want the bulk of the hair to be at the ends. 

A sandalwood mustache comb is perfect for the task. It contains two sides of teeth – one set small, the other thick. So, if you’ve got a handlebar mustache with a beard, it serves a double purpose. 

3. Be Patient

Growing a handlebar mustache takes time. If you’re a slow grower, it might take even longer than 3 months – especially if you played around with scissors. Remember, it’s not forever. Eventually, you’ll have the look you’re after; just stick with it.

As it grows, you can still style it. Pick yourself up a pot of BEARD SORCERY’s handlebar mustache wax. Made with beeswax, shea butter, and several natural oils, it’s crafted to soften your hair and provide shape and structure all day long. Perfect for training your mustache into the desired shape (see below).

How to Trim a Handlebar Mustache (with a Beard)

Trimming your mustache is a daunting prospect. You’ve spent months growing out your upper lip hair – any mistakes might set you back another month or so. We recommend finding a picture of your desired end result and using it as a reference point. 

If you’ve already got a beard, it’s best to find a picture with a beard as well. After all, you want a style that matches your existing look. 

We can split this stage into two parts: (1) trimming the handlebar mustache and (2) styling the mustache.

Trimming a Handlebar Mustache

Okay, where do you trim? Well, think of the mustache as two parts – there’s the bit above your lip, and then there are two ends. You want to trim the parts above the lip, whereas you’ll want to keep the ends longer. 

1. Prepare the Mustache: Begin by washing your mustache with a gentle shampoo and conditioner to soften the hair, making them easier to trim. Towel-dry your mustache lightly, ensuring it remains slightly damp for easier shaping.
2. Comb and Trim: Using a fine-toothed comb, straighten out your mustache hairs to remove any tangles. With sharp scissors or a beard trimmer, carefully trim the hair to the desired length, starting from the middle and working your way to the ends, ensuring symmetry on both sides.

You want to ensure the hair over your lip isn’t trimmed too short, leave it covering your upper lip. As for the ends, just ensure that all the hairs are of mostly even length. This will create a thicker curl that’s easier to work with.

Styling a Handlebar Mustache

Next, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your masterpiece. Get your pot of handlebar mustache wax; it’s time to gently tease your hair into that defining look. 

1. Shape the Ends: Apply a small amount of mustache wax to the tips of your mustache. Using your fingers, twist and curl the ends to form the signature handlebar look. Adjust the tightness of the curl to match your style preference.
2. Set the Style: Use a blow dryer on a low setting to gently set the waxed ends in place. Apply a touch more mustache wax to the entire mustache for added hold and definition. Comb through once more to finalize the shape and ensure even distribution of the wax.

Handlebar mustache wax doesn’t last forever – especially if you touch your mustache throughout the day. You’ll want to keep a small pot on your person at all times in case you need to reapply a small bit. Don’t overdo it, however. The last thing you want is a mustache with too much wax and grease. Just a small pinch goes a long way. 

Master the Art of the Handlebar Mustache

BEARD SORCERY isn’t just a beard oil company – we craft everything you need to create a legendary handlebar mustache. From mustache trimming scissors to the sandalwood beard comb, each of the tools works to train the hair and trim away the excess.

Of course, nothing is better than our handlebar mustache wax. Available in 13 different scents, from bourbon and tobacco scents of Dark Sorcery to the refreshing spring notes of Druid’s Mist. There’s truly something for everyone.

If you’re ready to take your mustache to the next level, buy our products today. We’re confident they’ll transform your look and give you lasting mastery of everything mustache.