Beard Oil vs. Balm: What's the Difference?

Ever wonder how some men achieve such shiny, healthy beards? It's not all genetics. Adopting a reliable beardcraft routine will keep your beard hair hydrated and nourished. However, a casual Google search will reveal dozens of different beard products promising to transform your beard.

Two of the biggest products are beard balms and beard oils. There's a lot of confusion between these products. In fact, beard oil vs. balm is something of a debate. What's the difference? Which one is better? And should you use a beard balm and oil together? 

We're here to settle the debate once and for all. Here's what you need to know about beard oil vs. balm. 

Beard Oil vs. Balm: What's the Difference?

What is Beard Oil?

Beard oil is a relatively thin liquid that's applied directly to the beard. It nourishes and softens the hairs, giving them a shiny, healthy lustre. Applying a regular dose of beard oil prevents patchiness and dryness.

Most beard oils are comprised of base oils and essential oils. Poor-quality oils might use coconut oil or other types of oil that risk going rancid on your skin. We use a combination of pure jojoba oil, virgin argan oil, apricot kernel oil, pumpkin seed oil, and hempseed oil to promote the best quality beard growth. These oils will protect your hair and increase hair thickness.

In addition to these carrier oils, each scent contains premium-grade essential oils. Popular examples include tea tree oil and lemongrass oil.

What is Beard Balm?

Beard balms, on the other hand, are a soft, pliable substance. Primarily used for beard styling, this product adds a hold and structure to your beard. If you're going for a particular shape – for example, a Ducktail – a beard balm will prevent it from going scraggly and dishevelled. 

What's the secret recipe behind our beard balm? Well, we use high-quality shea butter to hydrate and moisturize your beard alongside 100% pure white beeswax to hold your beard's style. There's also a healthy dose of pure jojoba oil and virgin argan oil. 

When to Use Beard Oil vs. Balm

Beard oils and balms both contain ingredients designed to nourish and support beard growth. The question is, what kind of style are you going for?

Beard oils are always the go-to product. Lightweight and easily absorbed, they are perfect for most beards. If you're not worried about structure, we advise applying a healthy dose of beard oil every day. You should always apply after washing your beard or if it feels dry or itchy. It'll prevent any dry skin or irritation. 

Beard balms are the perfect solution if you're struggling to tame unruly facial hair. The bigger and bushier your beard, the more we'd leaned towards a beard balm. Like beard oil, it'll provide some nourishment and growth support. However, its real benefit is in locking in the moisture and protecting against environmental damage. The beeswax, for example, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and germicidal properties. 

Is Beard Oil or Balm Better?

Neither is better than the other – they're perfect for different scenarios. You really need to consider what kind of beard you have or want. If you just let your beard grow, giving a much-needed trim to keep it in check, then beard oil is sufficient. But, for those men who prefer a more tailored, polished finish, we definitely recommend a beard balm.

Different beard balms can be harder or softer, depending on the beeswax ratio. Harder balms stay put for longer but can be trickier to wash out.

Some people have oilier skin, meaning applying extra oil leads to a breakout. We'd recommend trying a beard balm in such cases. It's slightly less oily and is more likely to stay in your beard rather than soak into your skin. There's also beard cream (complicated, right?!), which loses the beeswax and uses shea butter as the base alongside some carrier oils. It's another option for people who don't like the oiliness of beard oils. 

Should I Use Beard Balm and Oil Together?

Can you? Yes! Should you? That depends. 

Applying beard oil after you've washed your beard is sensible. It hydrates and nourishes the skin beneath, eliminating the dreaded beard itch. You might then want to apply a beard balm to structure your beard. It provides a protective covering that locks in the oil's benefits and tames any unruly hair.

However, if you're using a beard balm alongside a beard oil, we recommend cutting down on your beard oil usage. Once every few days should be sufficient. You don't want to clog up your pores. 

Using both together is especially helpful for longer or thicker beards that need extra hydration and control. Just remember to use small amounts of each product.

Finding the Right Beard Oil and Balm

After applying a good beard oil or balm, people are surprised at the rapid transformation. "It's magic!" No, that's beard sorcery.

Whether you're looking for the deep nourishment of beard oil or the firm hold and moisture-locking benefits of beard balm, Beard Sorcery has you covered. Our high-quality oils and balms are crafted with premium ingredients like jojoba oil, argan oil, and shea butter to give your beard the care it deserves. 

Not sure which to choose? Use both together for the perfect combination of hydration and style. Explore our range today and experience the magic of a well-groomed beard. Get yours now at Beard Sorcery.