Some suggest it starts with the skin, and skincare is essential to beard health, but it goes a bit further than that too. This is particularly notable because plenty of men equates beard hygiene with a rinse in the shower.
But remember, you’ve got skin under all that hair. Skin that needs to be cared for, not to mention your beard itself. Facial hair can lead to dandruff, ingrown hairs, acne, and itching, whether you’ve got a long beard, stubble, a moustache or goatee.
Here are a few tips to help your facial hair look and feel great:
- Wash your face and facial hair daily. Use circular motions to gently massage the cleanser into the beard, and be sure it does not feature agents that may block pores. Rinse well and pat dry with a clean towel.
- Use an exfoliating product once or twice per week if you have stubble or ingrown hairs. Salicylic acid is an ingredient to look for.
- When your beard is still damp, massage some moisturizer through to get not just the hair, but the skin underneath.
- Shave at the end, or directly following a shower, so hair is at its softest. Stroke your razor in the direction the hair grows and rinse it after each swipe.
- When you finish shaving, apply moisturizer, conditioner, or beard oils.
Avoid spending too much time touching or stroking your beard. Too much touching can transfer dirt.
Of course, a healthy diet can help your skin and facial hair, too. A diet rich in healthy fats like omega-3’s and those found in nuts and plant oils is great. Antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables can help with skin and hair, as well. Limit intake of processed foods.
Taking care of your beard might seem a little more challenging, but healthy skin and facial hair can help you look and feel younger!