According to our experts, beard oils are generally universal to all types of facial hair. But the products themselves can vary in thickness, ingredients and scent. All of our experts recommend finding a beard oil with plant-based oils such as jojoba, grapeseed, argan, or another plant-based oil. These “light and non-comedogenic oils” are “less likely to clog pores” according to Dr. Ugonabo. As for what ingredients to avoid, Dr. Huang cautioned against using any alcohol-based beard oil products with ingredients like isopropyl alcohol or propylene glycol because they can dry your skin.
We spoke with experts about the benefits of beard oils, ingredients to look for, what to avoid and some of their personal recommendations. Below are a few of the beard oils they recommend, including products from Jack Black, SheaMoisture, Layrite and more.
4.6-star average rating from 2,600 reviews on Amazon
Dr. Huang and Patrick Butler, the senior director of creative and technical education at Floyd’s 99 Barbershop, both recommended this beard oil from Jack Black, which contains a mix of botanical and fruit-based oils. “It has vitamins and antioxidants that help to reduce the itchiness that commonly occurs with having facial hair,” said Butler. At $28 for one ounce, this beard oil is one of the pricier options on this list, however.
4.8-star average rating from 900 reviews on Amazon
Butler recommended this thicker, more hydrating beard oil for anyone seeking to manage dense, coarse facial hair. “It has fantastic moisturizing ingredients such as sweet almond oil and soybean oil in addition to argan oil which help to add much needed moisture to your facial hair and skin,” said Butler.
4.6-star average rating from 2,100 reviews on Amazon
Dr. Ugonabo recommended this beard oil from SheaMoisture. It’s formulated with a wide variety of plant-based oils, including grapeseed oil, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, castor oil and more to moisturize and revitalize skin and hair.It’s also relatively affordable compared to many other beard oil options. According to SheaMoisture, it’s manufactured in the US using globally sourced ingredients.
4.6-star average rating from 52 reviews on Amazon
Butler recommended this beard oil from Reuzel as a lightweight option that’s easy to spread around facial hair of any length. It uses plant-based ingredients such as argan oil, apricot oil and shea butter, and carries a light citrus-mint scent, according to the brand. “I like the moisturizing quality on your skin as well, especially in dryer climates,” said Butler. Though this option is formulated with isopropyl palmitate, a derivative of isopropyl alcohol, which Dr. Huang said to typically avoid, Butler found it to be a great, light beard oil.
Beard oil can help keep your skin and facial hair healthy. When applied incorrectly, however, it can do more harm than good. “Just like any dermatologic product, it may take some trial and error before you find the right beard oil that works best for you,” said Dr. Huang.
All of our experts noted that, when it comes to beard oil, a little goes a long way. “You are purchasing a small bottle and there is a reason for that,” said Butler. A few drops or one simple pump is generally all that is necessary, especially for short to medium length beards.
There is some debate on using hair care products like shampoo and conditioner on beards. For daily care, the American Academy of Dermatology says any gentle cleanser you would use on your face is fine for facial hair. Butler and Dr. Huang both advised washing and drying your face before applying beard oil, and to work the product into your beard by gently spreading it with your fingers.
At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Dr. William Huang is a board-certified dermatologist at Wake Forest Baptist Health.
Dr. Nkem Ugonabo is a board-certified dermatologist at Union Derm.
Patrick Butler is the senior director of creative and technical education at Floyd’s 99 Barbershop.
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