Which is the better way to treat your beard to keep it healthy?
If you’re at a point where you’re trying to understand the merits of a beard balm versus an oil, congratulations, your beard game must be really coming together. But this debate isn’t really about which one’s better, it’s about personal preference and what you think your beard needs.
So, let’s talk about the main attributes of both. The key difference between balm and oil is that a balm has the added feature of providing hold and styling capabilities, usually with the addition of a beeswax base. That changes the application process drastically, but before we get into that, let’s talk about what a balm offers.
Nourishment and Conditioning: While beard oil primarily focuses on moisturizing the hair, beard balm goes a step further by providing nourishment and conditioning to both the hair and the underlying skin. The addition of something like shea butter, and essential vitamins tends to get deeper into the skin during the application process and therefore, is a strong promoter healthy beard growth right down to the skin level while soothing any itchiness or irritation.
Moisture Lockdown: Both beard oil and balm hydrate the hair on your face, but the thicker consistency of a balm also tends to seal in moisture with a bit more vigor. That consistency can also provide a barrier against environmental factors like wind, sun, and cold weather. Beard oils will evaporate more quickly with less long-lasting hydration than a balm.
Style and Control: The beeswax or similar ingredients in beard balm provide an added styling and control that beard oils are not really built to do. Whether you're going for a neatly groomed look or a more rugged style, beard balm helps tame unruly hairs and keeps your beard looking sharp all day long. It offers a light to medium hold, allowing you to shape your beard without stiffness or greasiness.
Finish: Beard oil leave a shiny finish on your beard which can give it a really healthy look but something you need to be careful doesn’t look too greasy. Beard balm typically provides more of a matte finish and has what might feel like a dryer application. So for men with oily skin or those who prefer a more natural look, a beard balm can give a well-groomed appearance without the telltale signs of excessive oiliness.
Protection Against Breakage: The hydrating and sealing properties of beard balm help prevent split ends, which can make your beard appear unkempt and frizzy. By maintaining the integrity of the hair shaft, beard balm prolongs the lifespan of your facial hair, allowing you to grow a longer, fuller beard without compromising on appearance or health.
So while we’ve looked at the distinct properties of each product, one of the key benefits both products can have is from aggressive application. Beard balm is built to be warmed up in your hands and rubbed in and throughout your facial hair. And while most beard oils are applied with a dropper, every guy would benefit from truly rubbing it throughout your beard with your fingers. So, while both beard oil and beard balm certainly have their place in your grooming arsenal, beard balm steps up the offering with a more comprehensive solution for guys looking for a stronger compliment of hydration, styling, and nourishment for their facial hair.