June is National Men’s Health Month, and we know a lot of guys out there with beards. So… let’s chat about how to take care of your beard. Did you know that a beard is only as healthy as the skin underneath it? Follow these tips from the American Academy of Dermatology to help keep your beard looking its best.
What’s needed to take care of your beard?
- Gentle cleanser for your face
- Clean towel
- Gentle exfoliating scrub (this will help reduce ingrown hairs if you’re prone to that)
- Moisturizer with at least SPF 30 (wear sunscreen on your face if you’re clean-shaven or have a stubble)
- Beard conditioner (for acne-prone skin), beard oil (for normal or dry skin types), or gentle moisturizer (sensitive skin)
- Beard comb and brush
How to take care of your beard
Step 1
Wash your beard every day with a gentle cleanser. This will help remove dirt, debris, and excess oils from your beard. If you skip this step, all this extra stuff will build up on your beard, clog your pores, and irritate your skin. Choose a cleanser that is right for your skin type — oily, dry, sensitive, or normal. As you wash your face, gently massage the cleanser into your skin and beard. Rinse your face off with lukewarm water and then pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Step 2
Next, it’s time to moisturize your skin. Moisturizer helps replace the moisture that is lost from your beard and face during the day. This will help ensure that your skin stays soft, smooth, and healthy instead of dry, flaky, and itchy.
As mentioned above, you may want to invest in an exfoliating scrub for the stubble phase. An exfoliator can help reduce ingrown hairs. This step is only needed about 1-2 times a week and should be followed with a moisturizer immediately afterward.
Additionally, during the clean-shaven/stubble phase, use a moisturizer that contains at least SPF 30 to protect your face and skin from sun damage. If your beard has grown out, you can also opt for a beard conditioner, oil, or another moisturizer.
For the best results, apply your moisturizer immediately after washing your face. Massage it gently into both your face and beard area. Use beard conditioner and oil sparingly to avoid it from being too greasy.
Step 3
Groom your beard to ensure that it looks well-cared for. Trim your beard regularly to keep it looking neat and tidy. Use sharp, sterilized scissors or a beard trimmer for best results. Combing beard conditioner, oil, or moisturizer through your beard will allow the product to distribute evenly. Using a comb allows you to detangle and style your facial hair as well.
Step 4
Trimming can have a big impact on whether the skin beneath your beard stays clear. To prevent any unwanted irritation, use shaving cream, gel, or oil before trimming while using an electric razor. Switch out your razor blade every 5 to 7 shaves. Always shave in the direction that your hair grows to avoid ingrown hairs. And shave after you get out of the shower as the heat softens your hair.
Now that you know how to take care of your beard, put these tips into action to keep your beard looking its best.
Closing Thoughts
Skincare is important for maintaining healthy facial hair and skin.
If you have any concerns about taking care of your beard, be sure to speak with your dermatologist for advice. At Complete Family Dermatology, we can help you find the right beard products and techniques for your beard type and skin type. With regular beard care, you can keep your beard looking its best for years to come. To schedule an appointment, please call 402-423-1111.
