Swipe right on genetic brilliance or unparalleled grooming routines, and chances are, you'd find a match in Nitin Chauhan. As one of India's top male models and face of a premier menswear brand, he's clearly living a dude's dream life, you see. And while he's at it, he's been whipping up a big, fat beard of envy. Something, a certain camera lens discovered a long time ago. But how does he do it and what brings our patchy beards to shame? Fortunately for us, he's not taking any of these secrets to his grave.

So, for our second edition of '30 Days 30 Beards', he does us a social service and recites his tale of bearding excellence.

© Raymond

Do you think beards are overrated?

Of course not! Beards are unique to one self, and add a lot of gravitas to your appearance. It's almost like, you shouldn't be overrating them—they're that important.

How has growing beard changed your life?

I've had this beard for a few years now. And growing it has really boosted my self-confidence. Plus, since I'm a model, it allows me to experiment with various looks and styles (without restrain).

What made you grow it in the first place?

Grooming trends are constantly evolving, and the beard is my way of blending in. Having said that, I'm always up for experiments—long hair, man buns or even just stubbles; I've tried them all. Over time, that has led to me growing this big, fat beard. 

© Nitin Chauhan

Do women dig the beard or clean shaven men?

It's more about how one carries it off, and what suits them. In general, however, women look for confidence in men and as I said earlier, growing a beard helps you attain that. So clearly, bearded men it is!

Razor or trimmer? And how often...

Trimmer, every fortnight.

© Nitin Chauhan

Beards need care. What's your regime like?

Well, I oil my beard every alternate day, and shampoo/condition daily.

Your best and worst beard phase?

I wake up with my beard everyday and honestly, it feels great. And since I care for it dearly, it's bound to love me back. So of course, I'm always running a great beard phase!

© Raymond

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

Aiden Brady!

Your next big beard move?

Big move? Isn't mine big enough already?