I think unless you be talking about an actual beard a DE is fine with even a weeks growth. If it's adjustable it makes it even easier. I routinely use a DE for a weeks heavy growth and the DE handles it just as good as a one day growth.
Just seems they clog fast and you are forever rinsing them by day 3.
A straight, you can load a good amount on it and then wipe it on a sponge.
Will give it a go with an adjustable though.