They may be turning into chameleons as the camera rolls, but let's admit it, there's only much that a model can change for the lens. Take for example, model Shahnawaz Alam's beard. Whether with million-dollar products or maybe even not, no matter how hard his #HMU artist tries, nothing can drastically transform his scruff on set. Unfortunately, it's he who has to do all the damned work. Results of which...only show over time (so clearly, he has a routine involved). That's exactly why, for our second edition of '30 Days 30 Beards', we decided to chat with the model extraordinaire, on making peace with his thick, hydrated mug. Result? Since we thought model-like grooming was like simple-guy grooming, we ended up taking a U-turn of thought. 

© MensXP,  Wardrobe Partner: Park Avenue

Do you think beards are overrated?

Not at all! Beards just need to suit a man and enhance his appearance/personality. If he looks good with it, why the hell not?

How has growing a beard changed your life?

Oh, there's been a drastic change in my appearance since I've grown it. I've started to look more mature! Plus, even the lens now seems to love me more.

What made you grow it in the first place?

To be honest, I had almost started yawning at how I was looking—boring, cliché and nothing different. But since I'm always down for a quick experiment, I decided to grow a beard soon. It worked!

Do women dig the beard or clean shaven men?

Completely depends upon the women you're into or to be brutally honest—the kind who want you. Until now, I've never had complaints.

© MensXP,  Wardrobe Partner: Park Avenue

Ever thought of a name for your beard?

Beards have names? Do they grow as instructed?

Razor or trimmer? And how often…

A razor — sometimes weekly, sometimes monthly.

Beards need care. What's your regime like?

The key is to wash/cleanse it daily and oil it every two/three days. That's exactly what I do!

Ever tried beard oils, shampoos, conditioners?

I have. I had to, in fact—to maintain what I've grown.

Your best and worst beard phase?

The moment people start complimenting you on your beard, just know that your best phase has already begun. But unfortunately, in order to reach that stage, you're going to face that period of an awkward length. Now that's the worst phase, and I've been there.

© MensXP,  Wardrobe Partner: Park Avenue

The razor/trimmer you're using right now?

The only two brands I trust—Gillette and Philips.

According to you, the most iconic celebrity beard in the world?

Lionel Messi!

And the worst...

Come on, beards can't look bad. In fact, I don't think anyone can look worse (or worst). Even if you have a bad face, you can save yourself with a beard!

Your next beard move?

Gotta go clean!

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Shahnawaz wears a shirt, Neo Fit trousers, tuxedo jacket; all from Park Avenue.

Photography: Manasi Sawant

Creative Direction: Santu Misra

Styling: Siddharth Batra

Grooming: Jean Claude Biguine

Production: Anand Pratap Singh

Wardrobe Partner: Park Avenue