Beard Oil vs. Beard Balm – How do they differ?

Facial hair has long been a style statement for men of all ages and from all walks of life. But while anything from a little stubble to a full grown bushy beard can hold the key to an individual’s personal style, if that facial hair isn’t cared for with the right products it can quickly spiral into appearing dry, brittle, and more than a little tired.

In this blog post, we’re settling one of the biggest questions that men who visit Boilerhouse Gentleman ask – what’s the difference between different beard care products and which ones do I need to use to keep my own facial hair looking its best?

Introducing two popular products

Beard oil and beard balm. Some men like to use both, some prefer one over the other, and some have no idea what the difference between them is. If you fall into the latter category in particular, then this blog is for you – but if not, keep reading anyway for a few beard care tips towards the end of this piece!

What is beard oil?

Beard oil is a moisturising product which works to support both the beard itself and the skin underneath. Made up of two key components, one of which is the carrier oil and the other being the essential oils selected for their potent benefits and scents, beard oils are runny and easy to apply – a little really does go a long way.

For most men, the prime benefit of beard oil is that it nourishes and hydrates the beard and the skin, complimenting the sebum and natural oils within the skin to leave you looking and feeling your best. Without clogging up or weighing down the beard, beard oil is a quick and easy fix for a quick touch up – and it can also be used as a natural way of taming an unruly beard.

In terms of usage and application, beard oil is best applied once a day after showering or washing your face and should be factored into even the most minimal of skincare routines.

What is beard balm?

The main difference between this and the aforementioned beard oil is the texture and the components which are used to make up the two products. While beard oil is light in texture, beard balm is much waxier and creamier in texture – making this the ideal product for those who want to channel more time and energy into styling their beard and giving it some added volume.

Beard balm conditions the beard in a similar way to the oil, but rather than soaking into the beard and skin underneath it takes on a bigger role in influencing the aesthetic appearance of your beard and facial hair. If your beard is particularly large and often unruly, beard balm is a stronger product which will have better success in taming the look and feel of your facial hair.

Beard care tips for men of all ages

First up, are either beard oil or beard balm better than the other?

The simple answer to this is no – neither product is exclusively better than the other, because there is a demand and specific market for both. If you are growing a relatively new beard, then oil is a lightweight and hydrating product which can help to keep the facial hair and the skin beneath in the best possible condition. Starting early will help you to work this into a regular routine.

Beard balm is the best go-to for those with established beard, and for those who want to exude greater control over the way their beard looks. If you need any advice on which product to use as part of your own beard care routine, feel free to visit our team at Boilerhouse Gentleman and have a chat!

And finally, for those other beard care tips we promised you…

• Have you ever noticed how much facial hair can frame both facial shape and structure? From accentuating a jawline to creating a professional and manicured or more wild and unruly look, your beard can have a massive impact on the way you look. Focus on shape as a priority!
• Book a regular beard trim to keep your facial hair looking uniform and conditioned.
• Don’t forget to wash your beard properly with dedicated shampoo. Body wash is not enough (sorry guys!)
• If you decide to grow a moustache as well, make sure that the two complement each other in terms of look and texture.