Aside from fashion trends, beards and mustaches have a significant practical role in protecting our skin from sun damage and ultraviolet rays. However, there is no denying that bearded men and those rocking the ‘tache look will gain attention with their new and stylish appeal – which is why the maintenance of both of these facial hair styles is essential. Whether you are just starting to grow it or have had this look for years, knowing how to maintain a beard and mustache correctly is the best way to ensure they look and remain lush and healthy, as well as avoiding any damage or skin irritations.
Probably the most important step in the maintenance of a beard and/or mustache, is trimming and shaping it. Trimming helps to control and prevent any split ends and it also helps to keep your facial hair looking neat and tidy. Usually the best way to do this is to comb it in several directions to separate the hair and then use a good quality trimmer set to a setting that suits your appearance the best, in order to keep it looking the most natural and sharp.
Regularly washing is also key, as it eliminates dirt and oil build-up, which can both cause itching and skin irritations. Make sure that when using a shampoo, it is specifically for beards and mustaches as regular hair shampoo is too harsh and can dry out your facial hair and cause it to become brittle. After shampooing, conditioner should also be used, which contains the same ingredients as shampoo designed for facial hair, however it adds extra moisture, keeping the beard and mustache extra-hydrated and soft.
In order to promote further growth, it is important to moisturize the skin beneath your facial hair. The skin is generally what gets most affected by dryness and having an oil specifically designed for facial hair is the best way to ensure you are moisturizing both your facial hair and the skin beneath. This can also help to keep any annoying detangling at bay.
Beards need more attention when it comes to the issue of beard acne. To prevent this from occurring, regularly cleaning with a mild shampoo can help a great deal and also reducing the amount of contact between the beard and collar of clothes, as this will accumulate dirt and potentially lead to breakouts. Also using a hormone-free and oil-free moisturizer should also be a regular routine and can prevent acne from forming.
Finally, for those with a mustache and/or beard, it is important to use appropriate styling products and care for them. Wax and balm are the best solutions, as they will keep the mustache or beard in the desired position and protect against any external elements that can damage it. Furthermore, when styling the mustache, use a comb and the wax to ensure the desired shape is maintained. These products can also eliminate split ends and flyaways, ultimately keeping the mustache and/or beard looking its best.
Products to Use
When it comes to keeping a handlebar or any other beard style in check, there are numerous products available on the market. However, not all products are created equal, so finding the right product for your personal beard type is important for the best results. If a beard is fairly stiff and is difficult to manage, a product like an oil or wax is the ideal choice, as it offers more hold and structure control.
For those who want to maintain a sleek, groomed look, a light wax or pomade might be best. This product will keep the hairs in place and provide a bit of shine, but it won’t be overly heavy or greasy. On the other hand, if you prefer a wild and ‘au-natural’ style, a heavier duty wax or balm is the way to go. A heavy-duty wax will keep the hairs in place, even in the busiest of days. Finally, there are also conditioners and balms that are specifically designed to nourish beard hair and keep it looking healthy.
Tools For Maintenance
For the best results, it is important to use the right tools when it comes to maintaining the beard and mustache. A good quality trimmer is an absolute must for any man looking to keep his facial hair in check. This can be used to trim, shape, and edge the beard, as well as keeping it neat and tidy. In addition, there are even specialized mustache trimmers, which can shape the mustache into the desired style with precision. Also, if you have a wild hair and want to keep it in check, a straight razor can help you to keep it neat.
Apart from these essential tools, it’s also important to have the right grooming kit. Mustache combs and boars hair bristles brushes should be a part of every man’s grooming arsenal. Combs are an excellent choice that help not only to tame the hairs, but also naturally exfoliate the skin beneath the mustache. Boars hair brushes are also a great choice for distributing conditioners, as well as styling products.
Health Benefits of a Mustache and/or Beard
Aside from the aesthetic appeal of a mustache and/or beard, there are also numerous health benefits that come with having facial hair. For example, research indicates that mustaches could reduce the amount of dust and allergens that are inhaled by the wearer. In addition, beards can help protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, as they act as a natural sunscreen. The hair can also help trap dirt and oils that can cause acne, keeping skin looking healthier. Furthermore, there are even studies which suggest that men with beards or mustaches have a lower risk of skin cancer.
General Tips When Growing Out a Beard
To have a healthy and full-looking beard, there are a few tips that will come in helpful. Firstly, before growing a beard, be prepared to dedicate yourself to the task of taking care of it, as there will be some patience involved. As mentioned before, regular trimming is important, and you should also avoid over-washing, as this can strip away natural oils that beard follicles need. As for washing, only do it two-three times a week. Secondly, a good diet rich in vitamins and minerals can promote beard growth and make it stronger. Lastly, be sure to stay hydrated, as this is essential for beard development and health.
Maintaining Mustache Tips
Another important aspect of taking care of a mustache is to make sure it is protected from the wind and sun. Investing in a good quality wax product can aid in keeping it shaped, as well as moisturizing and protecting it. Brushing or combing the mustache regularly is also essential, as this helps keep any tangles and knots at bay, whilst evenly distributing the product onto the mustache. You should also make sure to trim the ends of the mustache every week, as this ensures that these hairs don’t become brittle or dry.
Tips For Keeping Mustache and Beard Clean
It is essential to keep the mustache and the beard clean, as this helps to keep it looking healthy and groomed. To clean both the mustache and beard, only use lukewarm water, as hot water can dry out your facial hair. Specialized shampoos and conditioners should also be used, as regular shampoo is too harsh and can damage the hair and skin. Make sure that after washing, you use a boars hair brush to get rid of tangles, whilst simultaneously exfoliating the skin beneath the beard and mustache.
Allergies and Sensitivities to Facial Hair
Although rare, some people have allergies or sensitivities to facial hair. For example, there are people who have an allergy to chemicals in certain beard and mustache waxes, which can cause a rash or hives. Additionally, some people also find that they are allergic to their own facial hair, as it can act as a breeding ground for bacteria. Allergies of this kind can lead to several issues including, redness, swelling and itching on the surface of the skin. If any of these issues arise, it is best to discontinue the use of products and visit a doctor for further advice.
