I consider myself a very lucky creator that the most controversial topic among OP’s readership seems to be the length/existence of Marek’s beard. There are two very opinionated camps who are sad or delighted when it has appeared or disappeared. Myself, I am in neither camp.
The reason the characters’ hair lengths change is as arbitrary as physical changes on anyone you know. Sometimes Marek decides not to shave when he probably should. Then he gets sick of it one day and it’s gone. Much like the more fashionable leftovers in your fridge.
No problem with the beard — but where are his eyes?
This really is the life and times of my beard as well. About the same size. I’d like to see it get a bit bigger once in a while, like right before a shave.