Washing my Beard?

How often should I wash my beard?  Ask 10 people, you will get 10 different answers.  This article is a general guide that will help keep your beard on point.

Most men tend to error on the side of too often when it comes to washing their beard. Believe it or not, it’s not the best practice to wash your beard every day. Here’s why. Most soaps contain detergents and sulfates that will strip your beard of its natural oils (sebum).  When these oils are drawn away from the hair, it becomes dry, hard, and brittle which will lead to breakage, split ends, and even lead to hair loss. Therefore, it is a good practice to use natural ingredients opposed to harsh artificial ones for the following reasons.

• Natural oils are very similar to the oils produced by your skin and work in harmony with the body instead of against it.
• Because they are similar to oils naturally produced by the body, they are easier absorbed and easier to clean.
• Natural oils will keep your beard moisturized instead of stripping it of much needed nourishment.
• Because natural oils used in natural products are easier to clean, and work with the body, the beard needs to be cleaned less often.

The harsh cycle of using regular soaps and shampoos. Regular soaps and shampoos contain sulfates, detergents, dyes, and silicone. These ingredients coat hair strands and are very hard to clean. This is why when you use facial soaps or shampoo's on your beard, the beard becomes brittle and dry. Using a soap or beard wash specifically for your beard will contain milder ingredients that will benefit your beard and the skin underneath. Milder ingredients are easier to clean and are easier on your skin. Natural ingredients are easily absorbed by your hair and skin which will keep your beard clean and soft while retaining your beards natural oils.

 Every man is different. We have different beard and skin types, live in different environments, and we work in various places. Some men my work in an environment that requires them to spend more time on beard hygiene and washing more often.  

A general rule of thumb is to wash your beard every other day or 2 – 3 times a week. If your need is different and requires washing more often, STAY AWAY from harsh soaps and shampoos. Use beard specific soaps that are free from harsh chemicals. A mild beard soap or wash should only be used to clean your beard. Know the products you use and know what’s in them! Get to know your beard and your skin type (oily, dry, etc...). Take notes on how your grooming routine affects your beard. Use a soap that is mild specifically designed for your beard.