Carlton Vice Captain Kade Simpson has revealed his beard started as a bit of fun, but says it now "add a few kilos" when he gets out of the pool. 

Speaking to radio SEN this morning, Simpson said the beard's days are numbered. 

"It's time to go for the beard," Simpson said. "Going to try to raise a bit of money for Down Syndrome Victoria, they're a great cause that don't get a lot of recognition.

"I also just found out that Shaver Shop is going to sponsor the event, so it's great to have them on board."

When asked about Carlton's season, Simpson said he thinks his team has improved, and he's particularly relishing his role in the backline. 

"I have really enjoyed going down back," Simpson said. "At the start of the year I was playing half forward a lot and was struggling to find a bit of the footy.

"It was thrown up to send me back there – I saw Andrew Walker do it early and I was encouraged by his form, so I went back and am really enjoying it."

Simpson is hoping to raise $10,000 for Down Syndrome Victoria – if he gets there he will shave his beard on the Grand Final episode of Before The Game on Friday 27 September. 

To donate and help banish the beard, click here.