The Mustache Gap: What is It & How to Fix It

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Mustache Gap

Are you seeing a mustache gap? It’s not just your mustache that’s looking a little off – hair on your upper lip is also growing less densely, leading to a noticeable difference in facial hair.

The mustache gap happens when the hair growth in the “philtrum area” (or cupid’s bow) is less dense, resulting in a visible gap between the mustache and upper lip. While there are a few factors that contribute to the mustache gap, most of it can be fixed with proper hair-growth techniques.

So what can you do to reduce or even eliminate the mustache gap? In this post, we’ll discuss the causes of the mustache gap and provide tips on how to fix it. Keep reading to learn more!

What is a Mustache Gap?

A mustache gap is the small space between the nose and upper lip that’s left exposed when a person grows a mustache. The term can also be used to describe the hairless area on a man’s face that’s often seen as the ideal place to grow a mustache.

What Causes the Mustache Gap?

The mustache gap is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, puberty, weight loss, aging, and shaving. The best way to reduce the appearance of a mustache gap is to grow a mustache that covers the gap.

Genetics

Mustache growth is heavily determined by genetics. This means that no matter how much you try to grow a mustache, your natural ability will always be greater than what you can achieve with efforts alone.

However, there are a few things that you can do in order to help the process along – from eating right and maintaining healthy facial hair growth to using the best products regularly.

Large Philtrum

A large philtrum is a vertical groove in the middle of the upper lip that extends from the base of the nose to the border of the lips. It’s a common facial feature and can vary in size from person to person.

Large philtrums are commonly perceived as less attractive and why men will grow mustaches.

Growth Direction

Mustache growth direction is the direction that your mustache hair will grow in. It’s important to take this into account when you are trimming your mustache, as you will want to ensure that you are trimming it in the direction that it’s growing.

Hair Density

Mustache hair density is a measure of how much facial hair you have. The denser your facial hair follicles, the more likely it’s that your beard will be thicker and fuller. The mustache gap may be caused by a lack of hair density below the nose.

Patchiness

A patchy mustache is a mustache that does not evenly cover the upper lip. It’s often the result of poor shaving technique or genetics. Patchy mustaches can be difficult to style and often do not look as good as a fuller mustache.

Typically, you’ll also have an accompanying patchy beard and may find it difficult to grow a full mustache and a full beard.

Patchy Mustache
Patchy Mustache

Low Testosterone Levels

Low testosterone levels can cause patchy facial hair growth, as well as a wide mustache gap. Testosterone is responsible for the growth of facial hair and plays an important role in maintaining beard density and fullness.

Mustache Color

The mustache gap is the space between the top of the lip and the bottom of the nose. The color of your mustache can affect how noticeable this gap appears.

If you have a very light mustache, the gap will be more visible. If you have a very dark mustache, the gap will be less visible.

How to Fix a Mustache Gap?

If you have a mustache gap, the first thing you should do is to assess whether it’s actually a problem. If it doesn’t bother you, then there’s no need to do anything.

However, if you’re self-conscious about it, there are a few things you can try to get your self-confidence back. Our tips below are reasonable and actionable without being too drastic like a beard transplant.

1. Grow it out

If you have a mustache gap, the first step is to grow out your mustache. This will help you determine how much hair you need to fill in the gap. Once you’ve grown out your mustache, you can start trimming it to create the desired shape.

2. Trim the top line

To help a mustache gap at the top of your lip, the best way to fix it’s by trimming the top line of your mustache. This will ensure that your mustache is covering the entire top lip. Trimming will also reduce the mustache height and will make the gap less noticeable.

3. Use Mustache Dye

If you’re self-conscious about the mustache gap, you can try using mustache or beard dye to cover up the gap. Mustache dye comes in a variety of colors and will give your facial hair a more natural appearance. Just be sure to apply enough beard oil or balm so that it doesn’t leave behind any residue.

4. Fill in with Hair Fibers

If you are looking to fix the mustache gap, you need to try hair fibers, AKA beard fillers. This will help recreate the natural texture and density of facial hair, thereby achieving that fuller mustache style.

There are various fiber products on the market that can achieve this goal, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

5. Use Mustache Wax

Also called stache wax or beard wax, mustache wax is a good way to shape your mustache hair into place. The first step is to warm up the wax by rubbing it between your fingers.

Then, apply the wax to your mustache, starting towards the middle and working the hair into the bare gap area. Use a comb to distribute the wax evenly.

6. Improve your Diet

If you’re struggling to fill in the mustache gap, you may need to improve your diet. A full and healthy beard will help fill in the gaps between facial hair strands, which will result in a fuller mustache.

Include plenty of vitamin E-rich foods like nuts, avocados, and olive oil in your diet to help support beard growth.

7. Try Vitamins & Supplements

Mustache growth is often attributed to the intake of vitamins and supplements. However, not all vitamins are created equal with beard growth. In fact, some of them have been specifically designed for this purpose.

When selecting a vitamin or supplement for facial hair growth, include Vitamin A, Vitamin D and E, which are known as essential nutrients for \ hair follicles. Some other key ingredients might also include Co-enzyme Q10, caffeine or Biotin, which can also promote mustache growth.

8. Try Mustache Growth Products

Mustache Growth Products are products that help you grow a mustache. Some common mustache growth products include creams, oils, and serums. These products can help you grow a thicker, fuller mustache.

Be sure to read the ingredients carefully before purchasing any product. Look for natural products that are free of harsh chemicals.

9. Use Minoxidil

If you’re looking for a solution to the mustache gap, minoxidil may be just what you need. Minoxidil is a medication that’s used to promote hair growth in men and women with certain types of hair loss. Minoxidil is available in a topical solution that’s typically applied to the scalp or face.

This topical solution helps grow facial hair and has worked for men. Simply apply it as directed. Be patient, as results will take time to show. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatment.

Minoxidil for Mustache Growth
Minoxidil for Mustache Growth

10. Try a Beard Style without a Mustache

Maybe you can just avoid the mustache gap altogether. One option is to try a beard style without a mustache. This will allow you to style your look with maybe a goatee, chin puff, or soul patch.

There are plenty of mustache-free beard styles available, so there’s no need to panic about the mustache gap.

How to Maintain your Mustache

Maintaining your mustache is important for keeping it looking its best. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your mustache:

Step 1: Keep it clean

One of the most important things you can do to maintain your mustache is keep it clean.

The best way to wash a mustache is to use a mild shampoo or soap and water. Gently massage the product into your mustache, being careful not to scrub too hard. Rinse thoroughly and repeat as necessary.

Step 2: Trim it Regularly

Remember to trim your mustache regularly to keep it looking neat.

The best way to trim a mustache is to first comb it toward growth. Then, using scissors or an electric trimmer, cut along the lip line, following the natural shape of the mouth. Be careful not to cut too much off, as it’s difficult to fix mistakes.

Step 2: Moisturize

Mustache hair is naturally dry and needs moisture to stay healthy.

The best way to moisturize a mustache is by using an oil-based product. Apply a small amount of oil to the mustache and use a comb to distribute it evenly.

Step 3: Use quality mustache products

Maintaining a mustache and beard hair requires the use of quality products, and there are many factors to consider when shopping.

The first is the type of product you need, such as wax, oil, or beard balm. Other important factors include the ingredients used, the scent, and the price. You should also consider reviews from other mustache-wearers before making a purchase.

Step 4: Invest in the right grooming tools

It’s important to have the right grooming tools if you want to maintain your mustache. A good pair of scissors, razor, comb and beard brush are essential, as is a beard trimmer for those areas that need trimming often.

If you’re not sure which products to buy, consider getting advice from a barber or checking out reviews online before making a purchase.

5 Most Popular Mustache Gap Styles

Mustache Gap Styles are a type of beard style that leaves a small gap above the lip. This gap is usually filled in with moustache hair, hence the name. Mustache Gap Styles are a popular choice for men who want to sport a beard but don’t want it to be too thick or bushy.

Pencil Mustache

Pencil Mustache
Pencil Mustache

A pencil mustache is a thin mustache that’s trimmed to follow the line of the wearer’s upper lip, usually with slightly curved corners. It gets its name from its resemblance to a pencil.

Fu Manchu

Fu Manchu Mustache
Fu Manchu Mustache.

A Fu Manchu mustache is a narrow, downward-curving mustache named after the villain in Sax Rohmer’s novels. It was popularized by actor Boris Karloff in the 1932 film The Mask of Fu Manchu.

Handlebar

Handlebar Mustache
Handlebar Mustache

A handlebar mustache is a mustache that’s shaped like the upper lip of a bicycle. It’s usually tapered at both ends and has curved corners. The name comes from the handlebars that are often seen on motorcycles.

The Dali

The Dali Mustache
The Dali Mustache

The Dali Mustache is a type of facial hair that was popularized by the artist Salvador Dali. It’s characterized by its long, thin mustache that hangs down over the upper lip.

Imperial

Imperial Mustache
Imperial Mustache

An Imperial mustache is a style of mustache that was popularized in the late 19th century by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. It’s characterized by its thick, bushy appearance.

Conclusion

A mustache gap is a gap between your mustache and upper lip. There are a few ways to fix it, including using mustache wax or trimming the hair so it’s shorter and less noticeable. Generally, mustaches take around 4-6 weeks to fill in fully.

FAQ

How do I fix a mustache gap?

There are a few ways to fix a mustache gap. One is to use a small amount of mustache wax and shape the mustache hairs into place. Another way is to trim the mustache hairs so they are shorter and don’t stick out as much.

Will my mustache fill in?

It depends on the density of your mustache. If you have a lot of facial hair, it’s likely that your mustache will fill in over time. Generally, mustaches take around 4-6 weeks to fill in fully. However, everyone’s hair grows at different rates, so it’s possible that yours will take longer or shorter to fill in.

Why does my moustache not connect?

There are a few reasons your moustache might not connect. If you’re growing it out from scratch, it takes time for the hair to grow long enough to reach across your upper lip. You might also need to trim it or style it differently to get the connecting look you want.

Why does my mustache have a gap?

There could be a few reasons why your mustache has a gap. It could be that you’re not growing enough facial hair in that area, or it could be that the hair is not thick enough. Another possibility is that you’re not trimming your mustache properly, which can cause gaps.

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AUTHOR

I'm the founder of Bald & Beards, an amateur barber and I've been obsessed with men's grooming, styles, and trends for over 20 years.