Navigating beard care can be tricky, especially when it comes to what products you should use. For example, is it really all that “bad” to use regular shampoo on your beard? That’s what we’re here to answer today.
You’ll hear many different answers to this question. But TLDR—most experts recommend using a separate beard shampoo for the best results.
Why does it matter if you use shampoo for hair on your beard? Shampoos formulated for the top of your head don’t contain the same beard-supporting ingredients needed to nourish thicker, rowdier facial hair.
In this post, we’ll explain why you should avoid using regular shampoo on your beard and how to find high-quality, investment-worthy self-care products that keep your beard healthy.
Why you should avoid using regular shampoo on your beard:
- Traditional shampoo can strip your beard of natural oils.
- Regular shampoo (and conditioner) often irritate the skin underneath your beard and cause side effects like redness and beardruff.
- Beard hair is coarser than hair on your scalp and needs more nourishing, moisturizing ingredients to stay hydrated.
- Regular s conditioner can leave your beard feeling greasy or oily.
How to Choose the Right Beard Shampoo
Beard washes are specially formulated products that treat this thicker area of hair without stressing out the skin beneath. They are gentle cleansers that promote healthy growth while preventing itchiness and dandruff.
Look for Safe Ingredients
Always opt for effective shampoos for beards and look for products formulated with naturally derived, skin-friendly ingredients. Look for ingredients like jojoba oil, aloe vera, castor oil, argan oil, and premium essential oils.
Check that the beard wash is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, and dyes.
Opt for High-Quality Products
When it comes to beard wash, you shouldn’t skimp and buy the cheapest bottle at the grocery store. Beards are complex and deserve premium ingredients to keep facial hair looking vibrant and healthy.
We recommend investing in high-quality beard care products that protect and soothe your beard while keeping it clean and hydrated.
How to Use a Beard Shampoo
Okay, you have your beard shampoo, but how do you use it? Before using it, you should build a grooming routine that fits into your morning or evening rituals. According to board-certified dermatologist Anthony Rossi, MD, FAAD, men should follow a three-step beard and skincare routine to maintain a healthy-looking beard.
Part of that routine is a gentle cleansing of the beard and skin. To build your complete grooming routine, check out the derm’s suggestions, but here’s how to use a beard wash.
- After cleansing your skin using a facial wash, pat your skin dry.
- Get a dime to quarter-sized amount of product and rub it between your hands to create a rich, foamy later.
- Rub the product into the beard and massage it in gentle circles. Work the cleanser into the beard to remove build-up and excess oil.
- Splash water on your beard to wash off the cleanser, and pat dry before moving on to the next beard care product.
Complete your grooming routine with a high-quality beard conditioner and beard oil to keep your beard looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use a regular shampoo on their beard?
Men who aren’t worried about rough, dry beard hair or itchy skin can use a regular shampoo on their beard.
Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on my beard?
No, experts recommend avoiding traditional shampoo and conditioner for hair. Instead, invest in a beard shampoo and conditioner set that treats the skin beneath your beard and thicker facial hair with the right ingredients.
