How to Properly Maintain Your Beard

Beards are definitely in! Throughout history beards have gone in and out of fashion. There are a ton of different reasons men grow beards. Research has shown that both men and women find that men with beards appear older, stronger and more aggressive than non-bearded men. Men with beards may be seen as more mature and as having a higher social status. Although studies have varied in results, bearded men do seem to portray outward masculinity.

While beards may be fun and look great, there are some downsides. There are certain skin conditions that can make growing a beard a bit of a challenge, but good hygiene and the right products can help tremendously! Even for the average Joe, it is common for your face to get itchy when growing a beard. Beard hair isn’t like the hair on your head. It is mainly grown by your testosterone, and a by-product related to testosterone, called dihydrotestosterone. Because your beard hair is different then other body hair, you need to take care of your beard differently.

COMMON BEARD RELATED SKIN PROBLEMS:

One of the most common causes of itchiness or irritation is the result of a clean shave, you leave a sharp edge on the end of each hair inside its follicle. Once the hair grows out, the sharp edge can scratch the follicle, thus causing it to itch. Especially if you decide to grow out a beard after shaving for a long time.

Dry skin is another common factor. Especially with winter coming, the dry cold air can cause dry, itchy skin. Genetic factors, medications and some diseases also can cause a variety of skin conditions as well. Products such as shampoos, soaps and facial products can irritate your skin and cause an itchy beard.

Ingrown hairs cause skin irritation as well. This is when a hair that’s been shaved or cut grows back into its follicle instead of out. This causes the follicle to get inflamed and makes your beard itch. This is more common with curly hair. Ingrown hairs cause red, bumpy, and itchy follicles around the area you have shaved.

Folliculitis is a condition when the hair follicles get inflamed. This can be the result from bacterial, viral, or fungal infection or even parasites. When your hair follicles get clogged, for instance, from a ingrown hair, you can get folliculitus. The symptoms of folliculitis is red, tender or painful to the touch follicles. You can even get blisters that leak pus.

Pseudofilliculitis barbae is inflammation that happens when facial hair growing from follicles cut your skin inside the follicle or curve back around into your skin as they try to grow out. It often results in razor bumps in association with shaving. Once again it is more likely to affect those who have curly hair. The symptoms of razor bumps are like those of folliculitis, your face may look red, bumpy, and develop pus-filled blisters. Unlike most cases of folliculitis, razor bumps in pseudofolliculitis barbae are caused by noninfectious irritation, not any kind of infection. Keep in mind that razor burn and razor bumps are different conditions, though they can have similar symptoms.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that can make your skin scaly, red, and flaky. This condition most commonly affects your scalp, but it can also happen on your face in and around your beard, especially if you have naturally oily skin. Symptoms include yellow, greasy scales and red skin. The flakes may fall off when you rub your beard hair or facial skin.

Tina barbae is a fungal infection in the facial hair region. It’s caused by a type of fungus called dermatophyte. This fungal infection usually appears as red, inflamed, and crusty skin around your mouth, cheeks, and under your chin.

HOW TO PREVENT OR EASE THESE SKIN CONDITIONS:

Good beard hygiene is key to preventing these skin conditions. Keep your face and beard clean to prevent oil, dirt, and bacteria buildup. Try the following to keep your beard from itching:

We have a number of beard products that can make beard maintenance a breeze. To start off you will want a good soap for your beard. Our shampoo bars are fantastic for gently cleaning your beard. Our eco-friendly shampoo bars are made with organic plant based oils and botanicals that produce a rich and creamy lather without the harsh side effects of chemical concoctions. One bar is equivalent to 4 bottles of shampoo, so you get amazing quality without breaking the bank.

Conditioning your beard is another very important step. We highly suggest two different products that are perfect for providing moisture and calming down frizz. Our naturally better beard oil and conditioner hydrates both your skin and your hair with just a few drops. We also have naturally better beard balm which is lighter than wax yet still moisturizes and tames beard hair. Our products are perfect for all skin types including sensitive skin. If you are struggling knowing what to get or what to try first why not check out our ultimate beard gift box. Included in this amazing box is: beard wash and shampoo bar, beard balm, mustache wax, beard oil, and a beard brush. Everything you need to keep up your beard. Plus it comes in any of our many scents!

Every man has his own preference as to what kind of beard he wants to have. So why not use products specifically for your beard, in a scent that you love. You deserve to use great products that make you feel your best!