Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Optimal Beard Health

Caring for the skin underneath is crucial for those who want a healthy, vibrant beard. Ignoring this area can cause problems like acne, beard dandruff, and itching. That’s why we sought advice from board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Anthony Rossi, MD, FAAD.

In this blog, Dr. Rossi offers a simple three-step plan tailored for people with beards. His straightforward advice addresses common issues and boosts beard and skin health. Follow Dr. Rossi's expert tips to achieve a healthy, vibrant beard quickly.

Expert-Recommended Beard Care Essentials

Learn the essentials for a healthy, attractive beard from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anthony Rossi. Follow expert tips to boost your grooming routine and keep your beard in shape.

Mild Cleanser Formulated Specifically For Your Skin Type

For oily skin, use a gel cleanser or one with lactic acid to break down oil without causing irritation. Avoid harsh cleansers, as they can make your skin produce more oil. If you have dry skin, opt for a nonfoaming cleanser with a milky texture that won't leave your skin dry. Add hydrating elements like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera gel to your routine. For normal skin, lightweight gel or cream cleansers work well. For sensitive skin, use gentle cream cleansers. Gel cleansers are ideal for combination skin as they effectively clean oily and dry areas.

Clean Towel

A soft microfiber towel is best for your face because it gently absorbs moisture. Once you've picked the right towel, use gentle patting motions to dry your skin instead of harsh rubbing.

Exfoliating Scrub (Ideal For Those Prone To Ingrown Hairs)

For gentle facial drying, opt for a soft microfiber towel to absorb moisture delicately, then pat your skin gently instead of rubbing. When combating ingrown hairs, look for exfoliating scrubs with critical ingredients like Salicylic Acid (BHA), Glycolic Acid (AHA), Lactic Acid (AHA), Tea Tree Oil, Witch Hazel, and Aloe Vera. These elements soothe skin, prevent infections, and maintain smooth, irritation-free skin.

Moisturizer With At Least SPF 30

For several reasons, using a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 is great for beard care. First, it shields the skin under your beard from harmful UV rays, which can cause skin damage and early aging. It also helps keep the skin and beard hair soft and moisturized, preventing dryness, flakiness, and itchiness. Lastly, the stubble phase offers better hydration for your skin and facial hair.

Beard Oil and Beard Conditioner

Beard conditioner is essential for those with acne-prone skin. Its light formula keeps facial hair soft and moisturized without blocking pores or worsening acne. Often, it has soothing ingredients that reduce irritation and redness, making grooming more comfortable.

Conversely, beard oil is a must for normal or dry skin. It hydrates both your beard and the skin beneath, solving dryness issues. Filled with natural oils like jojoba, argan, and coconut oil, it keeps your beard smooth and manageable while ensuring the skin stays moisturized and healthy.

Comb and Brush for Beard

If you have a short beard, use a brush and a small or medium comb. For long beards, use a wide-tooth comb. Brush your beard first to make the hairs stand up, then use a comb to trim with scissors for precision.

Expert’s 3-Step Skin Care Plan for a Healthy-Looking Beard

1. Daily Face and Bead Washing

Wash your face and beard daily to remove dirt, oils, germs, pollution, and dead skin cells that accumulate on your skin and beard. Not washing can clog pores and cause irritation, leading to skin problems. Dr. Rossi suggests using a gentle cleanser designed for your skin type. Gentle cleansers are better than soap, as they clean without drying your skin, which helps prevent common dry skin under your beard.

For optimal results, Dr. Rossi suggests the following steps: gently massage the cleanser into your beard and skin using circular motions, ensuring thorough coverage. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any residue. Finally, use a clean towel to gently pat your face dry, leaving the skin slightly damp for better absorption of subsequent products.

2. Moisturize

Even if you have acne or oily skin, don't skip moisturizing. It helps to soften your skin and beard hair. Without it, the skin under your beard can become dry, flaky, and itchy, making your beard feel rough. The moisturizer you need depends on your skin type and beard length. Here is what dermatologists suggest:

Stubble Phase

The stubble phase can be challenging if you often get ingrown hairs (folliculitis). To avoid ingrown hairs, Dr. Rossi advises using a gentle exfoliating scrub 1-2 times a week and moisturizing immediately. During the stubble phase, use an SPF 30+ moisturizer that suits your skin type, whether oily, acne-prone, normal, dry, combination, or sensitive. The SPF helps shield you from harmful UV rays. Once your beard grows, you can switch to a beard conditioner or another moisturizer.

Grown Beard

Once you have a beard, Dr. Rossi suggests using these moisturizers:

• ✅ For acne-prone skin: Beard conditioner
• ✅ For normal to dry skin: Beard oil
• ✅ For sensitive, easily irritated skin: Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer

Apply your moisturizer right after washing or exfoliating, covering skin and beard for best results. Massage it through your beard. Use beard conditioner or oil sparingly to avoid a greasy look; you can always add more if needed. Moisturizing keeps your hair and skin hydrated, making them softer, less itchy, and healthier.

3. Beard Grooming

If you grow a beard for a specific look, this step helps you achieve it. After passing the stubble phase, apply a beard conditioner, oil, or moisturizer. Use a beard comb to distribute the product evenly. While combing, you can also detangle your beard, which is easier when wet, style it, and comb out hairs for trimming with scissors.

How you trim your beard can impact the health of the skin underneath. To lower the risk of skin issues, dermatologists suggest these tips:

When trimming your beard:

• ✅ Before trimming, use shaving oil, cream, or gel to avoid skin irritation.
• ✅ For trimming, use an electric razor.
• ✅ If your beard is longer, scissors can also be used.

When shaving your neck or other areas:

• ✅ Change your razor blade every 5 to 7 shaves.
• ✅ Shave at the end of a shower or right after, as the heat softens your hair.
• ✅ Shave in the direction your hair grows to prevent ingrown hairs.
• ✅ Rinse your razor after each stroke.
• ✅ Keep your razor clean and dry to prevent bacteria buildup.
• ✅ Apply moisturizer, beard conditioner, or beard oil right after shaving.

In conclusion, embracing these dermatologist-approved tips ensures your beard remains healthy and vibrant. From proper cleansing to moisturizing and regular trimming, small steps go a long way in maintaining optimal beard health.

Explore Alpha Grooming to discover more effective beard care and growth strategies. Empower your grooming routine with expert advice and achieve your desired healthy beard.