Beard Balm Before or After Oil: The Great Grooming Debate

Beards have become more than just a trend—they’re a full-fledged statement of style, masculinity, and individuality. But, with great beards come great responsibility. One of the most debated questions among bearded folks is: should you apply beard balm before or after beard oil?

Let’s dive into this grooming conundrum to clarify which approach works best for your beard.

Understanding Beard Balm and Beard Oil

Before we settle the order of application, it’s important to understand the role each product plays in beard care.

Beard Oil

Beard oil is typically a blend of carrier oils (like jojoba or argan) and essential oils. Its primary purpose is to hydrate both your facial hair and the skin underneath. By moisturizing the skin, beard oil can help reduce itchiness, flakiness (aka beard dandruff), and promote healthier beard growth. It also adds a bit of shine to your beard, giving it a healthy, vibrant appearance.

Beard Balm

Beard balm, on the other hand, is thicker in consistency and usually contains ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and oils. Balm works as a conditioner for your beard, softening the hair while providing a light to medium hold for styling. The beeswax in beard balm offers a protective layer that helps to lock in moisture while also taming any unruly hairs or flyaways.

Now that we know the purpose of each, let’s break down the different approaches.

The Case for Applying Beard Balm Before Oil

Some beard enthusiasts argue that applying balm before oil offers better results for certain beard types, especially for those with thicker, longer beards.

1. Creating a Base Layer: Beard balm, with its waxy consistency, can create a base layer that helps protect the hair from environmental factors like wind, cold, or pollution. Applying it first could allow you to shape your beard and set the foundation before oil is applied for a finishing touch.
2. Locking in Moisture: Since balm creates a protective barrier, it can help lock in moisture when oil is applied afterward. If your beard tends to dry out quickly, this method may keep hydration locked in longer throughout the day.
3. Control and Styling: Applying balm first gives you more control over styling. If your beard is unruly, applying balm initially can help you tame it before adding a layer of oil for shine and nourishment.

The Case for Applying Beard Oil Before Balm

The more traditional and widely recommended method is to apply beard oil before beard balm. Here’s why this method is popular:

1. Moisturize First: Beard oil is designed to nourish your beard at its roots, primarily focusing on the skin. Applying it first ensures that the skin underneath your beard is properly hydrated before locking everything in with the balm.
2. Layering Effectively: Since beard balm is thicker and contains beeswax, it tends to sit on top of the beard rather than penetrating deeply. Applying oil first allows the oil to absorb into your skin and beard hair before the balm seals everything in. This layering effect ensures you get the full benefits of both products—moisture from the oil and styling hold from the balm.
3. Less Greasiness: Applying oil before balm helps reduce the risk of overloading your beard with heavy products. The oil is absorbed, and the balm provides the finishing touch without making your beard feel greasy or weighed down.
4. Enhanced Shine and Smoothness: By applying oil first, you maximize the shine and softness of your beard, while the balm acts as a final layer to keep everything in place and well-groomed.

Choosing the Right Method for Your Beard

The decision to apply beard balm before or after beard oil often comes down to your beard type, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

• For shorter beards: Applying beard oil first is generally recommended. Shorter beards benefit most from the hydration that oil provides, helping keep the underlying skin healthy and preventing itchiness or dryness.
• For longer or thicker beards: Some men with longer beards might find that applying balm first helps shape their beard and then applying oil afterward adds a nice finishing touch. However, others still prefer oil first to deeply hydrate before sealing it all in with balm.
• For dry or rough environments: If you’re spending time outdoors in harsh conditions (cold, wind, etc.), you might find that applying balm first creates a better protective barrier, especially if you follow up with oil to enhance softness and shine.

Final Thoughts: Experiment to Find What Works

Ultimately, beard care is a personal journey, and what works for one person might not work for another. The good news is that there’s no “wrong” way to apply beard balm and oil. You might start by following the conventional wisdom—oil first, balm second—and adjust based on how your beard feels and looks.

So, experiment with both methods! Pay attention to how your beard responds. Is it softer? Easier to manage? Does it look healthier or shinier? The key is to find the balance that makes your beard feel its best and look its sharpest.

Remember, growing a beard is a journey, and how you care for it can make all the difference. Whether you apply balm before or after oil, consistency is key. Keep up your grooming routine, and your beard will reward you with healthy growth and undeniable style.