Definitive Beard Balm Guide
Firstly, let’s clear the air on a common misconception in beard care: beard balm is not the same as beard oil.
What is beard oil?
Beard oil is a leave-in moisturiser that contains carrier oils such as jojoba and argan oil and essential oils such as lemongrass and eucalyptus. These oils assist in cultivating the best possible conditions to grow your beard hair. Because beard oil contains fragrant essential oils, it also makes for an excellent cologne. The key benefits of using beard oil are as follows:
- Softens your beard hair.
- Moisturises the skin under your beard.
- Reduces itchiness.
- Prevents dandruff.
Beard oil is best for bearded men looking for a simple, light and quick moisturising aid for their beard.
What is beard balm?
Beard balm is also a leave-in moisturiser with many of the same key ingredients as beard oil, but the key difference here is that it’s simultaneously used as a styling product. Beard balm often includes beeswax and types of butter such as shea or cocoa that assist styling. It typically has a waxy and malleable consistency but does come in both solid and cream forms. The key benefits of using beard balm are as follows:
- Shapes your beard and tames flyaways.
- Moisturises your beard hair and skin.
- Prevents dandruff.
- Makes your beard look thicker.
Beard balm is best for men with long beards that need extra taming. It’s also great for guys experiencing patchy or brittle beards, who want to achieve a fuller, thicker look.
Should beard oil and beard balm be used together?
In short, yes, it can be, but it depends on your beard type. Beard oil and beard balm are two of the best beard care products that you can use, and when teamed together, create an unstoppable force of luscious bearded glory.
However, if you have a
short beard, you can probably get away with only using beard oil. A short beard won’t be long enough to need styling yet, and the light oils will provide all of the essential moisture that it needs to encourage healthy growth.
If you have a long beard, both oil and balm should be part of your beard care routine. It’s a good idea to get into the habit of using a beard oil every day, and a beard balm once or twice a week, depending on your styling needs. For example, you probably don’t need to style your beard if you’re hanging around at home all day, but will still want to provide it with those vitamin-giving oils to keep it moisturised and healthy. Use beard balm when you’re taming your beard to go out, or once or twice a week to encourage a fuller, thicker beard.
Types of beard balm.
Phew! Now that we have those basics covered, let’s take a look at the two main types of beard balm; solid and cream.
Solid beard balm.
Solid beard balm is the most common consistency and usually comes in a tin. It’s quite thick, yet smooth and waxy; best for shaping and holding your beard hairs in place.
Cream beard balm.
Cream beard balm is a happy medium between beard oil and solid beard balm in terms of shaping and finish. Cream beard balm is great for a light styling hold and gives your beard a polished finish without the shine that beard oil can often leave.
How to apply beard balm.
Now onto the practical component! Beard balm is best applied to your beard after you’ve showered and once it’s dried. You can apply beard balm in three easy steps.
Step 1: Scoop out a pea-sized amount of beard balm from the tin (or squeeze the same amount out of the tube for cream balms) and rub the wax into your hands until it’s fully melted. The amount that you will need to use will depend upon the length and thickness of your beard, so it might take a little bit of trial and error to get the perfect quantity. Just remember that less is more with beard balm - don’t go scooping out teaspoons of it!
Step 2: Work the product through your beard with your fingers, from the roots of your beard hair to the ends. Don’t forget to massage it into the skin underneath your beard too, as this will prevent dry skin and dandruff.
Step 3: If you wish to distribute the balm more evenly through your beard hair, try brushing it through with a boar bristle beard brush. This will also help you shape and detangle your beard. Alternatively, you can scrunch it with your fists to accentuate the curl.
Best beard balms.
So, now that you know all about why beard balm is one of the best beard products, and how to apply and use it, which one should you buy?
The Brotique stock a wide range of beard balms from several different brands, but our standout seller is always
The Bearded Bastard. We just can’t fault it. The Bearded Bastard regularly bring out new ranges in a variety of scents and have gathered somewhat of a cult following amongst bearded men worldwide. We also like to
champion local brands of a high calibre, however, which is why we stock a range of British and Scottish-made beard styling products too. Here are our top picks.
The Woodsman is easily The Bearded Bastard’s best-selling beard balm. It’s their original range, with a delightfully subtle woody smell. Like all of their beard balms, it contains the best natural oils, including jojoba and argan oil, and also uses both shea and cocoa butter. Perfect for giving your beard that natural lustre and healthy boost!
Fire Bead Balm is The Bearded Bastard’s latest, limited edition innovation. And it’s a real kicker. If you’re looking for a scent that really packs a punch, Fire smells like a bonfire full of chilli’s and is bound to give off a certain “don’t F**k with me” vibe. It’s smoky, it’s unique, and we love it!
Early Riser is The Bearded Bastard’s Spring/Summer collection and is perfect for all you sweet tooth’s out there. It’s inspired by all the best things involved with getting up in the morning, including coffee, pancakes and maple syrup. Warning: you might want to eat it.
Vanilla is another subtle classic when it comes to beard balm scents. It’s an understated and smooth crowd pleaser. It’s perfect for everyday use because the scent won’t overpower your cologne.
If you’re looking for a scent with a bit more depth and complexity about it, Opium Den certainly delivers. It’s aromatic, rich and empowering. And a little bit enchanting. Perfect for when you’re looking to make an impression or woo a certain special someone.
Beard-related questions, queries and chats.
So there you have it! Your complete guide to beard balm! If you have any additional burning questions that need answering please feel free to
contact our friendly team. We’re always happy to have a chat about beard products, tips and tricks. Alternatively, you can:
Happy grooming chaps!
