How to Use Beard Oil
Sean
Beard Oil 101: Learn how to use beard oil correctly.
What is Beard Oil
Beard oil is used to nourish the skin underneath a beard and the beard itself.
The Gillette website describes beard oil as follows:
“Beard oil is a versatile grooming elixir designed specifically for the care and maintenance of your facial hair and the skin beneath it.” (Gillette)
Beard oil provides moisture to nourish the skin underneath the beard and the beard itself. It also helps prevent itching and flaking.
How to Use Beard Oil
Reminder: Always do a patch test before trying a new product on your skin, and read the ingredients list carefully.
For new oils, read the ingredients carefully. Then start with a patch test to make sure the oil agrees with your skin. Apply a small amount of the oil to a small spot on your skin. Wait 24 to 48 hours and watch for redness or irritation. If your skin is clear after the trial period, then you can use the oil in your beard.
Apply when beard is clean and slightly damp, e.g. after towel drying following a shower. Generally avoid applying beard oil to a dry beard, as the dry hair won’t absorb the oil. In between showers you can splash a little water on your beard, or use a spray bottle to dampen your beard.
Use the right amount of drops for the oil’s formula and your beard type. This requires some trial and error and will depend on the formula each oil uses and the type of beard you have. E.g., dry, oily, etc. Some beard and oil combinations will require more drops than others.
Place the drops on your palm and rub your hands together to warm the oil.
Try to massage the oil into the skin beneath your beard first, then work the remainder through the hair.
Use a boar bristle brush to work the oil through your beard and to lightly exfoliate the skin under the beard. If your beard is longer, finish with a wide tooth comb and make sure to work the oil into your entire beard.
Looking for more information on other types of products? Read the How to Use Beard Care Products guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Beard Oil Help Hair Grow?
No, beard oil does not make hair grow. It does promote the healthy growth of existing hair by moisturizing the skin underneath the beard. There are products that claim to promote hair growth, and some may actually provide some benefit. Ultimately though, how your beard grows is primarily determined by your genetics.
What Is The Best Beard Oil?
While there are some highly rated oils, which one is the best is highly personal and unique to each individual. The feel of the oil in the beard, the scent profile, the weight, etc. Some folks, like me, prefer light to medium density oils, and some prefer heavier oils.
How Long Does Beard Oil Last?
Most beard oils have a shelf life of roughly 1 to 2 years. This really depends on the ingredients and how the oil is stored. The oils will eventually go bad. Watch for an “off” or rancid smell, and discard any oils that show signs of spoilage. It’s best to store beard oil in a cool, dry place, and away from direct sunlight.
Does Beard Oil Stop Itching?
Yes, beard oil is effective at reducing the normal itching associated with new hair growth. This is a common problem many men face when trying to grow a beard. Apply a few drops of beard oil to hydrate the skin and soften the beard hair. Beard oil will not, however, treat more severe skin conditions, such as rashes or fungal growth. Talk to your doctor if you experience long-term symptoms.
How Much Beard Oil Should I Use?
How much oil to use depends on the length and texture of your beard. Coarse beards or long beards will require more oil, while finer or shorter beards will require less. 2 to 3 drops is a good starting point. Then adjust from there depending on your individual needs.