Perhaps when you decided to grow out your beard, you were attracted to the idea of sporting wild, untamed facial hair. Maybe you wanted a beard with mountain man, free-spirited artist, or rock-and-roll rebel vibes. A beard that wouldn’t conform to society’s standards. A beard that said you were rugged, adventurous, or simply laidback. Unfortunately, you probably quickly learned that without proper care, a beard can turn into an unruly mess. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn flyaways or dry, itchy skin, we can help you learn how to tame a wild beard.
Mastering Beard Maintenance
Clean and condition your beard regularly.
To remove dirt, oil, and debris, wash your beard at least two or three times per week. Although the regular shampoo you use to cleanse your hair will work in a pinch, it’s best to purchase a gentle shampoo specifically formulated for beard care. This will keep your beard soft and hydrated, especially if you follow up with a little beard conditioner. Cleaning your beard can also prevent acne if you’re prone to breakouts.
Apply beard oil.
For a little extra shine, softness, and hydration, consider applying a pea-sized amount of beard oil. This is especially beneficial if your face often feels dry and itchy beneath your beard. Apply it after you shower, when your pores are open and ready to absorb the oil.
Brush your beard daily.
Just as you wouldn’t leave the house without brushing the hair on top of your head, you should brush your beard each and every day. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your beard, starting at the ends and working your way up. Then, use a boar bristle brush to distribute your beard’s natural oils and encourage the hairs to grow in a uniform direction. Always brush in a downward motion, and be gentle if you reach a knot.
Tame stubborn hairs with balm or wax.
If your beard is quite wild and unruly, use beard balm or wax for some extra control. This will help you train your beard to grow the way you like and keep particularly stubborn hairs in place.
Define the line of your beard.
One of the most common reasons a beard might look unruly is that it’s attempting to devour the entire neck. Generally, you want to shave a line slightly above your Adam’s apple and carry that line over to your jawline. Then, shave all the hairs beneath that line. This accentuates the jawline and keeps your beard looking tidy and intentional.
Trim your beard as needed.
Beard trims are essential to maintaining your beard’s shape and health. You can trim your beard yourself using a beard trimmer or sharp scissors, cutting off stray hairs to define your beard’s shape and remove split ends. Keep in mind that if you have a larger beard, the hairs won’t be the same length throughout; the sideburns should be shorter than the hair on your jaw, and the chin can be as long as you like.
If you’re looking to reshape your beard or you’re preparing for a special event, like a wedding or photoshoot, consider scheduling a professional beard trim. This can also be helpful if you need a little guidance for at-home beard trims. Tell your barber what sort of beard you want, take a photo of the results, and then maintain that shape with DIY trimming.
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Learning how to tame a wild beard isn’t difficult, but it does require consistency and care. Follow our tips to ensure your beard is a well-groomed masterpiece.
Looking for a barber shop that promises good vibes and a quality cut? If you live in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, or Oklahoma, stop by your neighborhood Hudson / Hawk. In our modern, comfortable spaces, people of all ages enjoy stylish haircuts and good conversation. We offer a variety of cuts — from zero fades to shear cuts and everything in between — as well as shaves, beard grooming, and waxing. Book your next haircut today, or stop by to pick up some beard oil!