TLDR: Don't be scared to step out of your comfort zone when it comes to looks. You'd be surprised what you think is attractive versus what other people actually find attractive.

So for a few years now I've sported a fairly thick, but not ridiculously long, beard. I've always thought I looked better with it, but a few days ago I used my beard trimmers to cut it down to a fine stubble (a healthy 5 o'clock shadow is the best way I would describe it) coz my skin was very dry and it was bothering me a bit. I was initially quite self conscious about it, because I hadn't actually seen my face properly in years.

Turns out it was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

I arrived at work the other day, and a girl who I think is like an 8.5 (but who doesn't really talk to me much) just went "Wow!" as I walked in. I was like "Huh? Oh, I shaved." She sits right behind me in the office so as I sat down she goes "So how's it going?" Immediately I realise that something is up because she NEVER makes small talk with me. Anyway, the whole time we're chatting she's running her fingers through her hair and smiling. If she was single I would have tried to escalate (yes, I know, don't shit where you sleep but she's that hot so I would have taken a chance) but she has a boyfriend. Also got a couple of compliments from the other girls (the guys all basically pointed it out or said you look different).

Later on I was leaving work and there were two ladies in the elevator. I made eye contact with the young pretty one at the back and immediately her eyes dropped to the floor. As I was standing in the elevator I noticed in the reflection that was sneaking looks at me while appearing to look down, and then she did the classic hair tuck and started playing with her hair.

I had one of my female friends tease me about it as well (oh my God, we can see you chin), and now that I look back I should have probably amped things up sexually but I just teased her back about it (hey, the ladies are loving it).