Need proof that some men take facial hair seriously? Look no further than the World Beard and Mustache Championships, which took place in Carson City, Nev., in November.

A total of 130 contestants, mostly from Europe, competed for the title of overall World Champion, as well as honors in 17 categories. Top winner was Karl-Heinz Hille, from Berlin, Germany.

"I feel as happy as a pig in mud," said Hille, who sports thick white sideburns combed upwards.

Razor's Edge

To those unfamiliar with the world of mustaches and beards, you wouldn't think there could be so much hoopla made about some facial hair.

But the popular contest has a wide range of categories, including Chinese Fu Manchu mustache, musketeer mustache-and-goatee combo, handlebar mustache and even "Full Beard, Natural."

But it's the freestyle categories that bring out the wild innovations, with wax and other styling products used to curl and shape hair in unnatural-but highly artistic-ways.

It's not just about the whiskers, either, as most contestants show up in costumes to enhance their chances.

Winners in each category get trophies, but no financial reward.

By More Than a Hair

Although a couple of Americans made a showing at the competition, it was the Germans who swept the contest with the most winners. Germany, England and other European countries actually organize clubs around the growing of mustaches and beards. Of course, most of these clubs meet in pubs or other drinking establishments, perhaps explaining the extreme and somewhat unorthodox stylings.

It's the World Beard and Mustache Championship that brings these whisker afficionados together every two years. The contest started in 1991 and is supported by beard and mustache clubs in nine countries. This was the first time the biennial contest had been held outside of Europe, exposing Americans to this bizarre competition.

Unshaven Unite!
Resources for those inspired to grow their beards or mustaches

National Beard Registry: This ambitious project seeks to record, with photos, all beards and mustaches throughout the world. The best part is the search function, where you can find all Vandyke beards, or search for beard-wearers in your state. Go to www.nationalbeardregistry.org.

Beardsley: The makers of this beard shampoo have developed a site dedicated to all things beard-related, which you can find at the Web site www.beardshampoo.com.

The Handlebar Club: This UK-based club is focused on handlebar mustaches and all they entail. Find tips on waxing your mustache, growing one and eating with it, at www.handlebarclub.org.uk.