Having a well-groomed and healthy new beard can be a confidence booster, regardless of whether it’s your first go or you’ve had facial hair in the past. It’s important to look after your new beard, and good care starts with a good foundation. You should prepare to grow your beard properly, research the best care and trim it regularly to get the best shape and look.
Good beard care is essential, not just for its appearance but also for its health. The facial skin underneath the beard is sensitive and needs its own specific hygiene routine. It is therefore important to use products that are specially tailored to their needs. Choose a cleanser that is better suited for the facial skin and use it daily to remove dirt, remove dead skin cells and balance oil production. This will help to reduce bad odors.
Beard oil is another essential part of beard care and should be incorporated into your daily routine. This will make your beard look thicker and healthier. It also helps to soften your facial hair, preventing it from becoming stiff, tangled and itchy. Try to find a product that is made from natural ingredients and that contains essential oils that also have moisturizing and antibacterial benefits. Apply the oil after you have showered and use a comb or brush to evenly distribute it through your beard.
After you have shampooed and applied oil, use a balm or a conditioner to nourish the hairs. A conditioner helps to provide a lightweight hold without making it greasy, and it can also help to prevent split ends.
Trimming is also an important part of grooming a beard. Cut the hair after you have applied the oil and every 3-4 weeks, or when the hairs become too long. Make sure to avoid trimming off too much too quickly. When cutting, first use a comb to section off small portions of the beard at a time and then trim off the excess hair with scissors. For an even finished look, use a trimmer.
Cleaning products are a must, as you don’t want dirt and bacteria to build up and cause infection. Make sure to use shampoo, shampooing every morning and removing it with lukewarm water. After shampooing apply a beard wash every other day, which will help to keep the skin underneath healthy, and use a brush to remove any dirt or food residue.
Your diet should also be taken into account when you’re looking after your new beard. Eating a well-balanced diet, with the right vitamins, minerals and antioxidants will help to keep it in prime condition. A lack of certain vitamins like vitamin A and E can create dry, brittle and unhealthy hair. So, include plenty of healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables and proteins in your diet.
Beard Products
There are many products available to help keep your beard looking healthy and stylish. Many beard care brands have started creating specialized products for different beard types and needs. For example, some beard oils are specifically designed to provide deep nourishment, while others provide hold to shape beards. There are also combs and brushes designed for facial hair to gently detangle unruly hairs, and help evenly distribute oils. It is important to find products that are specifically designed for your facial hair and its needs.
Beard Styling
Once you have grown and groomed your beard it’s time to style it into the shape you want. This can involve using a comb and scissors to shape the facial hair. Decide on the desired length and then trim using the comb and scissors following the natural growth pattern. Try not to take off more than you intended, as it is often faster and easier to take off more than to add. However, if you make a mistake, use a trimmer to level the edges.
You can also use wax or balm to help shape the facial hair and keep it looking neat. Both are designed for different goals, so choose according to your needs. Products like a beard balm often offer light hold, defining the hairs and making them look fuller and thicker. A wax provides a stronger hold and should be used for fuller, longer and thicker beards.
Beard Maintenance
To keep your beard looking great and healthy you will need to follow a regular maintenance routine. Brushing is important to evenly distribute natural oils and help remove dirt and debris, while also giving the beard more texture and volume. Use a boar-bristle brush or comb as they are less harsh on the hairs, as well as providing a softer experience. Also, consider using accessories like beard collars and beard bibs to help you keep your space clean while you’re trimming.
To keep your beard looking its best, wash the beard twice a week with a gentle beard wash. Try to use lukewarm water when cleaning, as this helps to open the pores and ensure that dirt is removed. Using a conditioner or detangling spray can help to soften and detangle the hairs as well. And once you’re done, make sure to towel-dry the beard thoroughly.
Beard Dye
If you are looking for a complete look for your new beard, beard dye can be used to give it a nice color. There are a range of dyes on the market, some of which are natural, while others are based on synthetic, chemical ingredients. Before using a dye, make sure to read the instructions and use it according to the instructions, as well as in a well-ventilated area. Before applying the dye, moisturize the beard and trim off any split ends to prevent any damage.
Be sure to use protective eyewear, as the dye can irritate the eyes. If you are using a lotion or cream, make sure to spread it evenly and avoid applying it to the skin, as it can cause irritation.
Beard Care Tips
Finally, here are some tips to help keep your beard looking healthy and attractive:
- Keep the beard clean and wash it regularly.
- Moisturize it with oil or balm, to help keep it soft and conditioned.
- Use a gentle shampoo, specifically designed for facial skin.
- Trim the beard regularly to keep it looking neat.
- Use a bristle brush or comb to detangle the hairs and evenly distribute oil.
- Eat a well-balanced diet to ensure your beard gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
- If you want to dye your beard, use either a natural or synthetic product.
Grooming Techniques
It’s not just the products you use that help keep your beard in prime condition. There are different beard grooming techniques you can try as well. Beard shaping is great for making the facial hair neater and more symmetrical, as well as providing more control. You should use a brush or comb to help evenly distribute the product. To reduce frizzing and barber-like lines, use a beard comb in a manner similar to a barber’s comb.
Beard oiling is also important and should be done daily. This will help to keep facial hair soft, healthy and conditioned. Keep the oil away from the skin, as it can potentially cause irritation. Also, using a few different styling products can help create more volume, while adding a beard balm can help tame flyaways and keep the beard in place.
Lifestyle Tips
Finally, as with most aspects of health and grooming, lifestyle plays an important role. It is important to stay hydrated and get enough rest, as lack of sleep or dehydration can cause the beard to become dry and brittle. Eating the right foods and a balanced diet will also help to keep your beard looking healthy and vigorous. And lastly, a good workout routine will help to improve your circulation, which will give your beard a nice, vibrant look.
