Beard Oil vs. Beard Balm
One of the first, and definitely the most frequent questions that people ask us about our products is the difference between Beard Balms and Beard Oils. While the two products share some benefits for your beard and skin, some customers struggle to choose the one that suits their beard the best.
So, what can you look for to help you decide which product is the best for you and your beard? The answer eventually comes down to personal preference, but there are some things to keep in mind to make sure that you're getting what you're looking for.
What kind of beard are you rocking? Is it short, or does it stretch to your knees? Your skin type also plays a role here, those with dry skin will have different needs to tend to than those with oily skin, and the same goes with guys with problem skin like acne.
These are all things to keep in mind when you choose which product is best - but if you reach the end of this article and still can't decide, we do recommend picking up one of each and testing them out yourself!
Beard Oils
Beard Oils are a pretty fundamental tool in the beardsman's toolbox, and is recommended for all stages of beard growth. It comes especially in handy for those beards that are shorter or younger, as it can help to maintain the skin underneath your beard, mitigating things like itch, ingrown hairs and dandruff.
The oil also has a very light feeling on the skin, meaning that it won't leave any sort of residue or heaviness behind on the skin. Look for beard oils that have a jojoba oil base for the best results. Jojoba oil is very similar to your skin's natural sebum, and can help deal with issues like acne, redness and irritation, dandruff, ingrown hairs and itch, among others.
Guys with longer beards will benefit from beard oils as well. It will keep your beard from becoming dry and brittle, and keep things like split ends at bay. Beard Oils can also be used as a mild cologne and deodorizer, although we still do recommend a beard wash to keep things clean!
Beard oils differ from other conditioners like hair conditioner or lotions, as a good one will not contain the silicones and other synthetics that can build up in your beard and make life difficult.
Beard Balms
Beard Balms are great for those of us who are working with a medium to large beard. (If you can't your skin through your beard, it is probably long enough to benefit from a beard balm. This is the marker that we advise to our customers) Beard Balm is also a great choice if your skin is dryer than most.
Beard Balms are much thicker than Beard Oils, and generally contain a natural sealant ingredient. (Beeswax is most common) Their texture is very similar to a pomade, or solid cologne.
Beard balms will sit on your beard and skin longer than most beard oils, and will therefore have a greater nourishing and conditioning effect. This is also what lets beard balm lend a light shine to your beard. Beard balms will generally lend a light hold to your beard as well. Keeping stray hairs in place and allowing you to lightly style your beard in shape.
Pro-tip: Look for beard balms that contain lanolin, as well as beeswax. Lanolin works wonders on both your beard and skin, and leaves both feeling soft and nourished. Lanolin also enhances the hold of beard balm, without being heavy or feeling unnatural.
Can I use both?
Yes, but with one condition. Be conservative when applying your products if you intend to use both! Start with a less than your would normally use, and slowly increase from there.
Using beard oil, in combination with a balm is a good option for those with longer beards, or those guys with dryer skin. The beard balm will help to seal in the moisture introduced by the beard oil, and keep your beard and skin nourished all day.
We generally recommend that guys who only use beard oil for most of the year try out a beard balm as well during the winter months, when drops in humidity can dry our your skin.
What is your experience with each type of product? We'd love to hear about it in the comments below!
Thanks for reading
-Tyler