6 Awful Beard Problems and How They’re Caused

Beards, beards, glorious beards. Is there anything better? If you’re growing your first beard, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. Even seasoned beard growers may find themselves stroking their beards with pride. But Beardcraft and upkeep is nigh on a full-time job. Fail to keep up with your beard's demands and you can face some uncomfortable consequences. Don’t use a healthy dose of beard oil and you’re in for trouble.

Even then, beards come with a whole host of issues. Here are some of the biggest beard problems and their causes.

Dandruff

That’s right. Just like your scalp, once your chin is covered in hair, dandruff (or beardruff) begins. Depending on the thickness and length of your beard, you may not notice at first. But peer beneath the hair and you’ll discover flakes of dry scaly skin. There’s also likely to be itchiness and redness too.

What causes beardruff?

Good question. Beardruff is most often caused by Malassezia – a type of yeast found on most humans. There are two primary treatments: one curative, the other preventative. To cure the problem, gently rub in a small amount of anti-dandruff shampoo. After a few days, it should disappear. To prevent the problem, however, regularly apply beard oil. Not only will it hydrate your beard hair but also nourish the underlying skin.

Acne

While most grow out of our acne phase in our teenage years, that doesn’t stop the odd spot poking up its unwanted head. That’s even more likely if you’re sporting a beard. Think about it: facial hair traps oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells – the perfect cocktail for a breakout.

Using a facial wash will help clean out your pores and prevent acne. Sometimes acne is related to genetics or diet, however. If the problem persists, see your local dermatologist for reccommendations. They’ll be able to prescribe topical creams and ointments to soothe the underlying irritation and prevent future outbreaks.

Staph infection

There’s one bacterium commonly found throughout your skin: Staphylococcus aureus. It loves warm, humid environments with plenty of flaking skin. That makes your beard staph’s version of a beach resort.

While it normally behaves itself, if S. aureus finds its way into a beard follicle, folliculitis can result. You’ll notice small red or white bumps across the skin. Often, they’re filled with pus and can be itchy or cause discomfort.

The treatment is simple: thoroughly wash your beard.

Skin irritation

While beards themselves rarely cause skin irritation, shaving and beard products can do so. Shaving with a dull razor increases the risk. Meanwhile, fragrant oils, gels, and cream may irritate sensitive skin.

Regularly change your razor, and if you have sensitive skin choose a gentler beard product, or an unscented version. If the irritation persists, speak to your doctor about prescribing hydrocortisone cream.

Ingrown hairs

For men who love stubble, there’s a significant risk of ingrown hairs (pseudofolliculitis barbae). It’s caused by the hair curling back into the skin, rather than growing straight out. The result: painful itchy red bumps.

Shaving after a shower reduces the risk, as the water softens the hair, preventing back growth.

If you do find an ingrown hair, speak to your doctor.

Lice

Yes, lice! It may seem like a problem restricted to school kids, but lice don’t discriminate based on age. All they want is hair and more hair. Beard hair is susceptible to both pubic lice (crabs) and head lice. The treatment is a medicated anti-lice shampoo alongside a lice comb. Or, you could shave it all off and start again.

Last thoughts

Growing a beard isn’t without its problems. From beardruff to ingrown hairs, beards can be a real pain in the chin. But that doesn’t mean it’s not all worth it. Just make sure to keep up your grooming, using a dash of Beard Sorcery’s magical beard oils, and you have nothing to worry about!