Delicate plaits worked through Rapunzel-like hair is not something you would associate with a beard.

But dozens of women are opting into the trend for using their long locks to create beautiful, Viking-style facial hair.

It seems the craze was sparked by long-haired women on Imgur and Reddit who were sick of being told to "try something different" with their locks or were simply bored.

Others wanted in on the fun of Decembeard, where men grow their stubble for the month of December to raise money for charity.

Some have carefully constructed french braids across their faces while others have tied small plaits to flow down from their chins.

It's essentially all for a laugh but the results are rather impressive.