<div>I think I might have a source for this idea. The Gemara in Berachos 11a brings the story of R' Elazar ben Azaryah and R' Yishmael re sitting/reclining for Kerias Shema. R' Elazar B"A says - "... Mashal L'Echad SheOmrim Lo 'Zekancha Megudal', Amar Lahem 'Yihye K'negged Hamashchisim'".
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<div>According to the Sefer HeAruch (quoted in the Mahara"tz Chiyus there), IIUC, the meaning of this Mashal is that the reason why this person (in the Mashal) grows his beard long is to 'Davka' to show an opposition to those who are Mashchis the beard.
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<div>I think it highly plausible to say the same regarding Peyos.</div>