Beard and shaving basics

A beard needs the same basics as the hair on your head, plus care for the skin underneath. These tips come from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and Cleveland Clinic, and cover washing, oil versus balm, and shaving without razor bumps.

Daily care

• Wash the face and beard every day with a gentle cleanser made for your skin type, the AAD advises, and moisturize right after.
• Choose the moisturizer by skin type: beard oil for normal to dry skin, a beard conditioner if the skin is acne-prone, and a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer for sensitive skin.
• Oil-based products hold more moisture than water-based ones, according to Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Alok Vij.

Beard oil vs beard balm

Beard oil is a leave-in conditioner for the hair and the skin beneath it; a few drops rubbed between the palms and worked through the beard is enough. Beard balm is thicker, usually built on beeswax or shea butter, and adds light hold and shape. Many men use oil daily and balm when styling.

Trimming and the neckline

The AAD recommends applying a shaving oil, cream or gel before trimming, shaving the neckline in the direction the hair grows, changing a razor blade every five to seven shaves, and applying beard oil immediately after shaving.

Shaving without razor bumps

• Shave at the end of a shower, when warm water has softened the hair.
• Shave with the grain; the AAD says shaving against the grain causes irritation.
• Rinse the blade after each swipe and replace disposables after five to seven shaves.
• Finish with a cold-water rinse, then a moisturizer or an aftershave made to reduce the risk of razor bumps.

Choosing from our range

Browse beard care from CB, EpiLynx and Rancho Bombero, hair and beard oils, and body wash and soap for the daily cleanse.