Beard Balm Vs. Beard Oil – Benefits And How To Use Them

Groom your beard like a pro for a luscious, drool-worthy beard.

Medically reviewed by Dr. M. Khawar Nazir, MBBS
Written by Sayantani Chatterjee, MA (English)

Edited by Eshna Das, BA, MSc

Fact-checked by Swathi E, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach • Nov 29, 2023

Beard Balm Vs. Beard Oil – Benefits And How To Use Them

Image: Shutterstock

Growing a luscious beard is now a cinch. There are many products you can use to grow a thick beard, from waxes to butters and many more. But we want to shed some light on beard oils and balms, their differences, and how you can get the most from these products. From their ingredients to how to use each of these products, learn everything about beard oils vs. balms right here! Learn about how to pick the product that is right for you, and you’ll soon be on your way to looking and feeling your best. Scroll down!

In This Article

What Is Beard Oil?

Beard oil in a small bottle with a dropper kept in a natural environment

Image: Shutterstock

Beard oil is an essential part of men’s grooming routine. This nourishing, conditioning product combines a blend of carrier and essential oils designed to moisturize the skin underneath your beard while improving the development of healthy hair growth. Ingredients that are frequently included in beard oils are argan oil, jojoba oil, grape seed oil, and shea butter. Applying good quality beard oil will not result in a greasy residue and, at the same time, will provide a pleasing scent. It can also help your beard stay healthy and reduce any itching caused by facial hair growth. Whether you are just starting your beard or looking to refresh your grooming regimen, this natural product is the perfect solution for nourished, hydrated facial hair.

Let’s now learn what beard balm is!

What Is Beard Balm?

Fingers scooping up beard balm from its container

Image: Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a solution to unruly, unmanageable beard hair, consider using beard balm. This all-in-one product acts as a conditioner, moisturizer, and styling aid, providing nourishment and light-medium hold for beards that need control and shaping. Beard balms contain natural ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, argan, and jojoba oils that moisturize hair follicles, promote beard growth, and prevent breakage.

Quick Tip

Boar’s hair resembles human hair, and its microscopic scales make it ideal for cleaning and exfoliating a beard while distributing oil. Use a hair brush made with boar’s bristles to spread the oil or balm through your facial hair easily.

While both beard oil and beard balm are great for the beard, there are distinct differences between the two that you need to know. Read on to learn more about choosing the right one for your beard routine!

Beard Oil Vs. Balm: Key Differences

A man with a beard holding both beard oil and beard balm in his hands

Image: Shutterstock

Whether you’re looking to restore, soften, condition, or style your beard and the skin below, let’s explore the world of beard oils vs. beard balms. Learning the difference between beard oil and balm can unlock the door to achieving the perfect beard style. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision:

1. Purpose

Beard oil is primarily used to moisturize, nourish, soothe, and condition your beard and skin, sealing in moisture and promoting hair growth. On the other hand, Beard balm is used to style and tame unruly beard hair.

2. Ingredients

Beard oil uses carrier oils with essential oils and shea butter, while beard balm contains carrier oils, essential oils, beeswax, and lanolin. The ingredients in beard oil give it a thick liquid consistency, while the ingredients in a balm give it a thick waxy or salve-like consistency. The smooth consistency of beard oil makes it a suitable choice for a dry and textured beard, whereas the wax-like consistency of beard balm makes it the most ideal option for a rough and curly beard as it can help tame unruly strands.

3. Effects

Beard oil reduces itching and friction. Some men even use it in place of shaving cream or gel. Whereas beard balm restores natural moisture and keeps the beard smelling fresh and clean.

Quick Tip

Be gentle when washing your beard. Use a mild shampoo or beard wash, and don’t wash too often or scrub too hard. Too much washing or scrubbing can dry your beard and skin, causing irritation and itching.

4. Ideal Period Of Use

Beard oil should be a daily essential even if you are clean-shaven and is used to penetrate skin follicles and provide moisture and coating protection. Beard balm is used on an as-needed basis for styling control and nourishment. It should be used after your beard has had a chance to grow and is only used to coat existing hairs.

5. When To Use

Beard oil is needed daily and should be used more often, while beard balm can be used as needed for styling and nourishment.

6. Benefits

Beard oil has an upper hand when it comes to moisturizing benefits. Since it is enriched with nourishing ingredients that aid in maintaining the moisture in the hair, this helps it combat dryness, itchiness, and dandruff. While beard balm can also hydrate flaky skin and lock moisture in the beard hair, it may not be as effective and lightweight as beard oil.

Now that you know the differences between beard oil and balm, let’s learn more about the benefits of using them to groom your beard.

Benefits Of Using Beard Oil And Beard Balm

Beard oil in a brown dropper bottle with a beard balm in a black flat container

Image: Shutterstock

Beard oil and beard balm are great grooming tools with their very own unique benefits!

Both beard oil and balm help replenish lost sebum and deliver vitamins and nutrients to the follicles.
The beard oil provides deep hydration due to its moisturizing properties that help your skin and beard feel softer. It also helps to protect skin from environmental damage. Beard balm acts as a sealant to lock in the oil while providing a sculpting and taming hold.
Beard oil works especially well for new beards or those prone to itch and beardruff, while beard balm is a great way to tame those pesky flyaways.
Beard oil sits lighter on your face and gives a shiny look. Beard balm contains heavier ingredients giving you more control and a matte finish.

Quick Tip

The standard practice is to let the oil penetrate the skin and then use a balm to provide firmness and intense nourishment. If you have dry skin or desire to avoid it, use the beard lotion before bedtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put beard oil on before bed?

Yes, clean your face with warm water and apply the oil before bed. Wash it off the next morning.

Can you use both beard oil and beard balm together?

Yes. You can apply beard oil in the morning followed by beard balm for styling and nourishing your beard.

How do you apply beard oil, and how do you apply beard balm?

Rub a few drops of beard oil into the beard and massage it well. As for beard balm, apply it on the beard and comb through it for styling.

Can beard oil and beard balm be used on all types of beards?

They are suitable for all types of beards, be it short or long. A beard balm is the best for those with a beard longer than 2 inches.

Dive into the world of beard grooming and uncover the difference between a beard balm and a beard oil. Watch this informative video to enhance your beard care routine.