Beard Care Guide · Beard Balm Basics
Why Use Beard Balm, and How to Apply It
When you decide to let it grow, you'll probably head to Google and search for the best ways to look after your beard. You can also expect a gift set at every seasonal holiday, usually with a beard oil, a wash and some mass-produced product from a big chain. Congratulations, you've been pigeonholed. No more socks and deodorant for you.
And now people are talking about beard balm, and you're thinking "ah man, I've just got my head around applying oil to my face and now there's more?" Why would you use a balm over an oil? Can you use both? What even is beard balm, and how do you use it? All great questions.
What is beard balm?
Technically beard balm is the same as beard oil. Well, that's actually a lie. Let's start again.
Most makers use the same base oils in their balms as they do in their oils; they just add a butter or two and some kind of wax, usually beeswax. That wax and butter is what gives a balm its thicker texture, its hold and its staying power. So a balm is beard oil's heavier, styling-focused cousin.
Why use a balm over an oil?
A balm is usually better suited to a longer beard, or to a beard growth phase. It's great for taming stragglers while conditioning the hair and the skin underneath. It also works as a styling product with a medium hold to shape the beard, and it adds a layer of protection against the elements. If your beard is at the stage where it has a mind of its own, a balm helps you take charge of it.
Can you use balm and oil together?
Absolutely. You can use both if you like. Some people use a balm to start the day for hold and protection, and an oil at night to condition. There's no correct routine, just whatever suits you and your lifestyle. And if you want the nourishment of an oil with a softer, wax-free feel, a beard butter sits neatly between the two.
How to use a beard balm
How much you use depends on the size of your beard. Start with a thumbnail-sized scoop in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together to warm the balm and melt it into a translucent oil, then apply it evenly through the beard. Run your fingers through, getting right to the root and pulling through to the tips. A beard comb or brush helps distribute it and style the beard as you go.
Start with less than you think you need. You can always add more, but too much balm at once can leave the beard feeling heavy.
FAQ
What's the difference between beard balm, oil and butter?
Oil mainly conditions the hair and skin with no hold. Balm adds beeswax for medium styling hold and protection. Butter sits in between: richer than oil, softer than balm, with a little light hold and no heavy wax. Many people own more than one and use them for different jobs.
Is beard balm better for long or short beards?
Balm tends to suit longer beards and growth phases, where hold and taming matter most. Shorter beards often do fine with just an oil or a butter, though a little balm can still help with stray hairs.
How often should I use beard balm?
As often as suits your beard and your day. Many people apply it in the morning for hold and protection. There are no strict rules; adjust to what your beard needs.
Will beard balm make my beard greasy?
Not if you use the right amount. Start with a thumbnail-sized scoop, warm it fully in your palms, and add more only if needed. Too much of any product can feel heavy.
Explore the full range: beard balm, beard oil and beard butter.