How We Chose the Best Beard Wash
We entrusted the curation of this list to men’s grooming professionals. We’re proud to present two titans of beard management and grooming: Adrian Clark and Owen Gough.
Adrian is a multi-award-winning writer and journalist firmly embedded in the grooming world, having spent decades exploring the broad world of fragrances, men’s grooming and skincare.
If there’s one person you can trust to guide you through the murky world of self-care items, it’s our own Mr Clark. Owen is also an expert groomer, having worked in the men’s fashion and magazine world for seven years, compiling roundups and features on beard and hair maintenance, tech trends, and the latest gadgets for total manscaping. He also has a beard that just happens to be his pride and joy, so in all cases, the below washes are options he has personally tested.
FAQ
What’s the difference between beard shampoo and hair shampoo?
Any good barber will tell you not to shampoo your hair every time you shower because you run the risk of drying out your scalp. Even high-quality shampoos have chemicals that can strip your beard of its natural oils and could leave both the hair and the skin beneath dry and brittle. Beard washes, however, are designed to work with the natural oils produced by your skin and facial hair while delivering a payload of hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Will beard shampoo get rid of beard dandruff?
TL;DR: It won’t hurt. Ingredients in beard shampoo are usually blended without harsh detergents, and by massaging them deep into your beard, you’ll extend the benefits to the skin underneath. However, dandruff is inherently a dermatologic problem, and to get to the root of it, a good moisturizer is what you’re looking for. There are also shampoos and beard conditioners that work similarly to regular options that cleanse the individual strands of hair, nourish them, and then protect them from damage, which will also solve many issues of dry, flaky skin.
How often should I wash my beard?
It will vary from beard to beard. For an oilier beard, consider shampooing up to five times a week, for drier beards, much less. Lifestyle factors will also come into play: If you have a more physical job working outdoors, your beard will naturally build up more dirt and require more regular maintenance. Those who sit at a desk all day, meanwhile, might find once or twice a week does the job. Assess your skin type, routine, and requirements and adjust your schedule accordingly.
This article originally appeared on British GQ.
Read the full article here