The first impulse is to lick your thumb and wipe it off. "Here, let me get that for you." But the hairs don't budge. They are there on purpose, lone pilgrims in an expanse of otherwise shaved skin.

Facial hair has long been a symbol of identity and style, but few beard styles are as polarising as the soul patch. This small yet distinctive patch of hair – nestled just below the lower lip – has ...