Facial hair can be both a fashion statement and functional asset, but a prickly, itchy, coarse or unruly beard can be a total turnoff.
Before you dig into the details on how to soften your beard, it is important to understand the reasons why your beard is rough and unruly.
Your Beard has split ends.
Split ends are due to the way you trim your facial hair. If your trimmer blades are not sharp, the tugging effect can shatter and stress the hair ends leaving them dry and vulnerable to splitting.
Your Beard is not moist enough.
Like your hair and skin your beard relies on moisture for hydration. Beard oil and balms are available and specifically designed to keep facial hair moist without looking greasy. They can also make the hair and facial skin softer making your beard feel more comfortable and relieve itchy skin.
Improper care.
It is vital to treat your beard to regular combing, washing, and conditioning to keep it in the best possible condition. Regular shampooing and conditioning plays a big part in the daily care of the perfect beard. Treat yourself to daily combing for a softer beard and because it feels great!
Poor lifestyle.
Lifestyle and nutrition can make a big difference to the health of your facial hair, just the way it makes a difference to your nails and skin. Foods like salmon, walnut and soybeans can provide nutrients that make your facial hair softer. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation. Drinking the recommended daily intake of water will also protect you and your beard from dehydration.
Now you have a diagnosis, try these 4 simple hacks to a softer, more manageable beard.
Boar bristle brush
A boar bristle brush is a great tool for softening your beard. It is easier on your face and facial hair than plastic hair brushes and brushes your beard and skin in a manner that promotes the natural oils of your skin to be distributed evenly across your face and hair. A boar bristle brush can also comb away any dirt from your beard keeping it clean and soft.
The massaging effect of brushing on your skin will help improve blood flow, and keep your facial hair healthy.
Shampoo & conditioner
These should be a part of your daily beard care routine. Shampoo can cleanse the beard and remove any dirt that builds up throughout the day. Use mild shampoos to scrub and exfoliate the skin. Conditioner can make the beard softer and shinier by retaining the necessary hydration and reducing split ends.
Beard oil
Oils are essential to moisturise and conditioner, minimising itchiness by softening facial hair. Essential oils, such as tea tree, lavender, cedarwood, and agar in beard oils are also perfect deodorisers.
Beard Balm
Balms contain natural waxes that will make your beard softer. They seal and protect the hair with either natural or synthetic sealants.