BEARD OIL - What is it and why do I need it?

Hey brother. Your beard’s looking a bit scraggly. Have you tried rubbing beard oil in it? It will change… your… life!

Calling all our bearded fellas. Just like that hair on your head that needs to be looked after, so does that hair on your face. It needs regular shampooing, trimming, combing, and of course – oiling. No, not just any old oil, you need beard oil. The perfect beard should be soft and silky, never wiry, flaky or dry.  It's the first thing people will notice when they meet you.

Beard oil benefits unshaven manly men in many ways. It moisturises the (most likely) dry skin hiding underneath, it tames that beard frizz, it smells good (hello ladies - snuggle in), stops the dreaded beardruff and beard itch (so flaky, so itchy!) and it may even help your beard to grow longer and thicker. Yeah, you heard me... Booyeah.

In this week's blog we’re going to look at what is in a beard oil, starting with the main ingredient, the carrier oil.

Carrier Oils

The main ingredient is what is called carrier oil. Its purpose is to provide nourishment for your hair and skin, as well as dilute the essential oils (you don’t want to put those bad boys directly on your skin – they can burn!). So in other words, it’s the oil that “carries” the essential oils (the oils that give you the scent in beard oil). They are like the flour or the butter in the cookie. And they cannot be left out. Ever.

Choose a carrier oil to suit you and your skin needs. Carrier oils are often pressed from kernels, nuts and seeds. Each oil has a different therapeutic effect and sets the whole tone for the finished beard oil. They are loaded with great fats that make your skin happy.

When choosing your carrier oil, you want to take note of some important points.

1. Its shelf life.
2. How well its absorbed into skin and hair.
3. How it will leave your beard feeling.

Jojoba Oil

Pronunciation for those in doubt is

| ho ∙ ho ∙ ba | (not job∙joba okay?)

The most commonly used oil in beard oil. Derived from the seed of the Jojoba plant which is native to south western US and north western Mexico, it is popular for its resemblance to the skins natural oil. It is frequently used in cosmetic products such as moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners and so on.

Jojoba’s aroma is very light and does not interfere with that of essential oils. It is a stable oil giving it a very long and indefinite shelf life stopping you from worrying about it going rancid.  

BENEFITS ∙

Using Jojoba as your carrier oil will make your beard feel soft and smooth. It absorbs very well and is perfect for dry or damaged beards. It fights acne, regulates skin oil production, moisturizes, cleanses, conditions, is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal (because that’s useful for a beard, right?), can aid hair growth and provides sunburn relief.

All in all - it’s a darn good oil. Tried and tested.

Sweet Almond Oil

Almond oil is another commonly used carrier oil due to its versatility and affordability. Derived from only the sweet almonds (those bitter almonds just wouldn’t have a bar of it!) it has a light, sweet and nutty odour. This can be harnessed with essential oils to create the desired end result. Almond oil has a shelf life of about 12 months, and should be kept out of extreme heat. It absorbs well and is suitable for dry and sensitive skin.

BENEFITS ∙

Almond oil is known for its ability to condition, soften and sooth hair and skin. It moisturizes, helps restore natural pH levels of the skin, is an anti-inflammatory, prevents split ends, softens and shines up hair.

All in all – almond oil is gentle and mild, and is perfect if you have problem, dry or itchy skin. It is rich in essential fatty acids, protein, nutrients and vitamins. If you have a nut allergy however, I would probably suggest you stay away from this one…

Argan Oil

Argan oil is a very high quality oil derived from the fruit kernels of the Argan tree, found commonly in Morocco. It is becoming increasingly popular and is extremely rich in antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients. This provides complete nourishment for your beard. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave an oily residue, and has a slightly nutty odour. Argan oil is an ideal conditioner for your beard making it softer and shinier.

BENEFITS ∙

It moisturizes, conditions, promotes healthy hair and skin, reduces inflammation, fights acne and prevents split ends. It absorbs easily, is non-greasy and non-irritating. Argan oil has a high Vitamin E and fatty acid content and is excellent for soothing damaged skin providing it with nutrients to protect against further dryness and irritation.

All in all – due to its ability to tame frizzy beards and give them shine, it is an excellent styling agent and an ideal step to add into your grooming routine.

When, Where, How

Straight after the shower brother, while that beard and skin are still damp.  If you want to get all technical, this is when the skin's pores and hair's follicles are still open.  We want that beard oil absorbing and moisturising easily.

To apply:

1. Pour just a few drops into the palm of your hand.
2. Rub it between your hands to coat them evening.
3. Massage into your beard and chin, starting with up against the grain for the skin, then stroking down the hair back into its place.
4. If you use a beard brush it will more evenly coat through and help it to really shine.

As the oil is absorbed the gloss will soften. 

Your face is what people notice first.  Make sure you use products that are going to work for you!

Next week we'll have a look at the essential oils in beard oil, what they can do for you, and some of the products we stock here at Hommes Uniques.

Until then, stay classy you handsome devils!

The girls at Hommes x