Beards have been having a major comeback moment recently- no doubt because shaving is just *too* much effort when we’re not leaving the house anyway. Now though, it seems the beard trend is here to stay, and we’re 100% here for it.
Growing a beard might seem as simple as just foregoing the razor and letting time do its thing, but anyone who’s tried to grow a lush and dense beard, or even a little trying-but-not-trying stubble, will tell you that there are a whole host of issues that can come with it. We’re talking itchiness, frizz, dry skin and hair, and beardruff (dandruff, but in your beard. Get it?).
These issues come about because essentially, a beard is like your skin: it needs a little TLC and maintenance to stay in peak condition. Luckily, there’s a low effort, high reward tool that can be transformational in the art of beard growing: beard oil. Want to know more? We’ve got all you need to know about this miracle solution to your beard woes.
By Beth Ryan
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1 What is beard oil?Beard oils are typically a blend of conditioning and essential oils, specifically chosen to nourish the hair of the beard, which is thicker and coarser than the hair on the head. Basically, the aim is to condition the hair so it’s soft to the touch, shiny, and fragrant- by doing this, the beard will feel (and look) much stronger and healthier. For fuller beards, it can make the desired shape much easier to achieve, and can also help prevent split ends. Beard oil is also super beneficial to the skin underneath the beard – it helps moisturise the skin, helping to tackle the dreaded itchy phase, and any dry, flaky skin that might occur during the beard growth.
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2 What's it made of?
Beard oils are specially formulated to be lightweight so that they can be absorbed into both the hair and skin underneath without weighing the beard down. A good beard oil should feel soft and smooth, and shouldn’t leave a residue on the hands once applied. It’s also great to opt for all-natural options, which use ingredients such as argan, jojoba, and sweet apricot oils, and often nourishing extras such as vitamin E and tea tree to soothe and condition the hair.
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3 When should I use beard oil?
This all depends on the length and density of your beard. If you’re shaving every few days, and just have a bit of stubble in between, it’s best to opt for a good moisturiser and a facial treatment at the barber. This is because regularly shaved skin needs even more TLC to avoid redness and irritation caused by your razor. If you’re letting your beard grow past this phase, this is when you’ll want to start using beard oil. Day three is usually when you’ll start noticing that ‘itchy phase’, which can be difficult to power through – beard oil will help here by softening the skin and reducing irritation. It will also condition the hair to promote healthy growth. If you’re growing your beard longer, or already have a beard, we’d recommend using beard oil every day (preferably in the morning) to keep the hair smooth, shiny, and healthy-looking.
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4 How to apply
Beard oil should be applied to dry hair, so make sure to dry your beard if you are applying after showering. Each morning, pour 2-4 drops of oil (depending on the length of your hair) in the palms of your hands. Rub the oil between your hands to warm it up, then gently massage into your beard so that the oil penetrates to the root of the hair. If your beard is super long, you can finish by brushing with a beard comb to make sure it is coated in the oil. If you’re new to beard oil, it can be best to start out with a small amount to avoid over-saturating the beard- you can also build up the product if necessary.
With Treatwell, you can book grooming online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Find amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What is beard oil and why should you use it?
Beard oil is a blend of conditioning and essential oils designed to nourish and soften beard hair. It keeps your beard feeling smooth, shiny, and healthy, while also moisturizing the skin underneath to prevent itchiness and dry flakes. Regular use helps with shaping fuller beards and can prevent split ends.
When should you start using beard oil on your beard?
You should start using beard oil around day three of growth, when the ‘itchy phase’ often begins. Beard oil helps soften the skin and reduce irritation during early growth, and daily use is best for longer or established beards to keep hair smooth and healthy.
How do you properly apply beard oil to your beard?
Apply beard oil to dry hair after showering by pouring 2-4 drops into your palms, rubbing them together, and massaging it into your beard down to the roots. If your beard is long, use a beard comb to ensure even coverage. Start with a small amount to avoid over-saturating the hair and increase if needed.
What ingredients should you look for in a good beard oil?
Look for a beard oil that’s lightweight and easily absorbed by your hair and skin. All-natural options using oils like argan, jojoba, sweet apricot, plus vitamin E and tea tree oil, help condition the beard and soothe the underlying skin. A quality beard oil should feel soft, leave no sticky residue, and provide nourishing benefits.
Can you use beard oil on stubble after shaving?
If you’re shaving every few days and only have stubble, it’s better to use a good moisturiser and consider a facial treatment at a barber. Regularly shaved skin can be sensitive and may need extra care to prevent redness and irritation rather than beard oil.