How to Use Beard Balm: A Full Guide with Steps

How to Use Beard Balm: A Full Guide with Steps

If you're serious about grooming your beard, you’ve probably heard of beard balm. But what exactly is it, and how do you use it? Whether you're a seasoned beard enthusiast or just starting your grooming journey, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to use beard balm properly.

What Is Beard Balm?

Beard balm is a beard grooming product with a cream-like texture that’s designed to soften, moisturize, style, and condition your beard. It usually contains ingredients like beeswax, butter (shea or cocoa), and essential oils that work together to restore softness to the beard, tame flyaways, and provide a light hold for styling. 

What else does beard balm do, you ask? If you’ve ever experienced beard dandruff, itching, or dryness—you’ll be glad to know that it also helps to soothe irritation and flakiness while adding a subtle shine so your beard looks healthy and hydrated. Another nice-to-have? Most beard balms come with a masculine fragrance, which leaves your beard smelling amazing.


How to Use Beard Balm Properly

Incorporating a beard balm into your grooming routine is easy. Simply follow the step-by-step guide below.

Step 1: Prep Your Beard By Cleansing It

Before applying beard balm, start with a clean slate. Wash your beard with a good-quality beard wash to remove any dirt, oil, or product build-up. Pat it dry with a towel, but leave it slightly damp for better absorption of the balm. Clean skin and hair are essential for the balm to work its magic. 

Step 2: Melt The Balm

Scoop out a small amount of beard balm—about a dime-sized amount should do the trick for shorter beards, while longer beards might need a bit more. Rub the balm between your palms until it melts into a smooth, oil-like consistency. This helps to ensure even application and easier distribution through your beard.

Step 3: Work The Balm Into Your Beard 

Starting at the base of your beard, work the melted balm into your beard, making sure to reach the skin underneath. This not only conditions the hair but also moisturizes the skin, preventing dryness and flakiness. Spread the balm evenly by massaging it into your beard in a downward motion.

Step 4: Style (And Remove Excess) With A Beard Comb

Now that your beard is fully coated, use a beard comb or brush to style it to your liking. The comb helps to distribute the balm evenly and remove any clumps or excess product that could weigh down your beard. The beeswax in the balm provides a light hold, keeping your beard looking neat and styled all day.

When to Use Beard Balm

It’s best to apply beard balm after your morning shower when your beard is clean and slightly damp. This is also when your facial hair is the softest, thus making it easier to style. If you’re debating between beard balm vs oil, know that balm offers a light hold and styling capability, while oil is better for hydration and shine. 


Whenever your beard feels dry and unruly, nourish it with the Scotch Porter Beard Balm, which contains shea butter and biotin to soften and condition coarse beards. It also keeps stubborn hairs in place so you can maintain the shape of your beard all day.

How Often to Use Beard Balm 

Beard balm can be used daily, especially if you have a longer beard that needs extra care and styling. That said, how often you use beard balm depends on your beard's length and texture. Generally, using it once a day is sufficient for most beards. If you have a very dry or unruly beard, you might find that applying a small amount of balm in the evening helps keep it under control.

What Products to Pair with Beard Balm

To maximize the benefits of your beard balm, you can use it alongside other beard grooming products such as: 

  • Beard oil: For the best results, consider pairing beard balm with beard oil. Apply beard balm first to soften and add a very light hold, then use the beard oil for a smooth and shiny finish. This combination ensures your beard stays nourished and in shape throughout the day.
  • Beard conditioner: Using a beard conditioner in your grooming routine helps to deeply moisturize beard hair and make it more manageable. Apply beard conditioner during your shower, and follow up with beard balm after lightly drying your beard. This duo will leave your beard feeling soft and looking sharp.

Best Order for Using Beard Products

If you’ve already got a line-up of beard care products in your grooming routine, knowing the right order to use them can make all the difference. Understanding when to apply beard balm and how to sequence each product ensures you get the most out of your regimen. Here’s our recommended order for using beard products:

  1. Beard Wash: Start with a clean beard.
  2. Beard Conditioner: Nourish and strengthen with a conditioner.
  3. Beard Spray: Layer with a light mist for a weightless, hydrated feel.
  4. Beard Balm: Use balm to soften, smooth, and shape.
  5. Beard Oil: Apply oil to lock in moisture and add shine.

Beard balm is a must-have in any beard care routine as it offers a perfect blend of moisture, styling, and protection. Whether you’re dealing with a short beard or a long, luxurious mane, knowing how to use beard balm the right way will keep your beard looking its best.

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