Over the course of history, there have been many different styles of mustache, from the handlebar to the pencil mustache. Regardless of what type of mustache you're sporting, keeping it trimmed is vital to maintaining the look. If you want to learn how to trim a mustache, you've come to the right place.

• Mustache or no mustache? Some men refuse to be seen without one, while others would never grow one. Some prefer the full mustache, while others opt for barely-there hair on their upper lips. Although the type, length and style of mustache you choose to wear is completely up to you, there is no denying that a well trimmed mustache not only looks cleaner and neater, but will also make you more kissable and help prevent your mustache from becoming a food trap.

• Depending on your personal preference, you can use either an electric mustache trimmer or clipper, or a pair of scissors to trim your mustache. Some men prefer the convenience and speed of the electric trimmer, while others believe that a pair of scissors allows for more control over the trimming. In addition to your chosen trimmer, you'll also want a fine-tooth or mustache comb and a mirror.

• Howcast Video: How To Trim Your Mustache (Time: 1:39)

• Always be conservative when trimming your facial hair—after all, you can go back and trim the hair shorter after the first pass if you wish, but you can't glue the hair back on after you've cut it off. If you're using your electric mustache trimmer for the first time, set it on the highest setting so that it trims the minimum amount of hair. If you choose, you can adjust the settings later for a closer trim.

(Creative Commons photo by goldberg)

• Regardless of whether you're using scissors or an electric trimmer, the process for trimming a mustache is basically the same:

1. Get your mustache slightly damp
2. Comb your mustache
3. Trim the hairs along the bottom of the mustache so that there is a clean, even line
4. Trim either side of the mustache to give it a definitive shape. To avoid a lopsided mustache, trim a few hairs from one side, then a few hairs from the other side. Alternate back and forth in this manner until the sides are even and cleanly defined
5. Starting at the middle of the mustache and working outwards toward either edge, trim any hairs that are longer than the others or appear out of place
6. Comb your mustache again
7. Give your mustache a once-over and clip any other hairs that appear out of place

• Use the tips above to keep your mustache neat and trimmed. Since different styles of mustaches tend to complement individual face types, you can experiment with different mustache shapes until you find the one that's perfect for you.