At least half of the Earth’s population has the potential to grow a beard or moustache. You’d think with 50% of people capable of it, proper facial hair care would be common knowledge. Yet we often see folks come in with all manner of beard care practices — good, bad, and ugly. Whether you’ve got a lot or a little (and whether that’s by nature or by choice), here are Ross’s ultimate tips for keeping your facial hair healthy and happy.
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Invest in the tools
Whether you’re trimming it or shaving it off, investing in the right tools will make a world of difference for your face fuzz. Cheap trimmers can pull or damage the hairs and skin, while dull or cheap razors can cause ingrown hairs or infections. Using poor quality shaving soap or foam will also give shoddy results. Get the best tools and products you can afford, and be sure to keep them in good repair. Clean them after every use, and don’t be afraid to replace them as soon as you notice them start to fail.
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Don’t fear the comb
Never underestimate the benefit of daily grooming. Not only will a decent sort out make whatever you’re working with appear fuller and more orderly, you will also be helping to ‘train’ your hairs to grow in the direction you want them to. This means less styling time, a tash that stays out of your mouth, and eventually less ingrown hairs! Daily combing will also help distribute moisture and oils more evenly throughout your beard, which means a healthier, better conditioned beard.
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Good beard care is good skin care, too
Speaking of oils, investing in a good quality beard oil will ensure that you have the most glorious beard around. Not only will it condition your beard hair, making it soft and pliable (but still manly), it will also keep the sensitive skin under your beard in good condition, while also acting as a styling product. And while we’re on the topic, you can’t expect to have a beautiful, healthy beard if your skin is spotty and scaly underneath. Avoid ingrown hairs and beard dandruff by exfoliating and moisturizing the skin around your beard (including your neck).
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Lather, rinse, repeat
There is a bit of a debate about how and how often, you should be washing your beard. Some suggest daily (or every time you shower), while others say never use shampoo. Using a good shampoo and conditioner can improve a dry, hard-to-manage beard if that’s what you’re facing. If you’re wanting to try it, a good rule of thumb is to shampoo it 1-2 times per week, and condition it daily (or whenever you shower). It’s important to clear out all of the food, sweat, and products, but it’s just as vital to ensure it’s hydrated, so you will want to avoid over-cleansing.
Over a few weeks or months, you will notice your beard becoming more soft, pliable, and overall easier to manage. Don’t take your foot off the pedal! Keep going with the daily grooming and you will have great facial hair for life.
So there you have it — 4 tips for better beard care. Will you be trying some of these tips? What’s your top beard care tip? Be sure to let us know! xx