Let’s settle it: beard oil and beard balm aren’t interchangeable—and knowing which one to use (and when) can mean the difference between a dry, scraggly beard and a soft, well-groomed masterpiece.
Whether you're new to beard care or just looking to upgrade your routine, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Beard Oil?
Beard oil is the foundational product in any solid beard care routine. At its core, it’s a lightweight blend of conditioning oils—typically including nourishing carriers like jojoba, argan, grapeseed, or sweet almond oil. These oils are chosen for their ability to mimic the skin’s natural sebum, making beard oil ideal for moisturizing not just the beard hair, but more importantly, the skin underneath (Healthline).
That’s key, because dry, itchy skin is one of the biggest reasons guys give up on growing a beard in the first place. Without proper hydration, the skin beneath your beard can become flaky and irritated, leading to the dreaded “beardruff.” A few drops of beard oil massaged into the roots will help relieve that dryness, prevent itching, and soften coarse beard hairs so they’re more touchable (and less prickly to anyone getting close).
It’s especially helpful in the early stages of growth or for guys with shorter beards, where the skin is still exposed and needs extra care. Beard oil absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue, making it perfect for daily use—whether you’re starting your day or winding down at night.
What Is Beard Balm?
Beard balm is often described as the “middle ground” between beard oil and beard wax—but make no mistake, it plays a unique role. Unlike beard oil, which is strictly for hydration, beard balm combines moisturizing butters (like shea or mango butter), natural oils, and just enough beeswax to give it structure. That means it not only nourishes your beard, but also helps you shape it (GQ).
The result? A thicker product that melts down in your hands and provides both conditioning and hold. If your beard tends to frizz, puff out, or develop flyaways throughout the day, beard balm is your best friend. It helps tame and smooth the hair while also giving your beard a fuller, more deliberate look.
Because of its added weight and hold, balm works best for medium to long beards—especially for guys who want to train their beard to grow in a certain direction or maintain a groomed appearance. It's the product you reach for when you want your beard to look good, not just feel good.
Plus, balm works as a sealant—locking in the moisture you get from beard oil and protecting your hair from environmental stressors like dry air or harsh wind. Used together, the two products can transform even the wildest beard into something worthy of admiration.
Do You Need Both?
You don’t need both beard oil and beard balm—but if you want a beard that feels great and looks even better, using them together can be a game-changer. Beard oil is ideal for daily hydration, especially right after a shower when your skin and hair are most receptive to moisture. It keeps your beard soft and itch-free while nourishing the often-overlooked skin underneath. For guys with short beards, sensitive skin, or just starting out, oil might be all you need to stay comfortable and avoid the dreaded beard itch or flaking.
Beard balm, on the other hand, adds a layer of control and structure that oil alone can’t provide. Its thicker consistency helps tame flyaways, add volume, and give your beard a more polished, intentional appearance. Balm also acts as a sealant, locking in the moisture from your oil and protecting your beard from harsh weather or dryness throughout the day.
When used together, oil acts as your deep conditioner, while balm functions more like a leave-in styling cream. If your beard is longer, coarser, or prone to looking wild by noon, combining both products gives you the hydration, control, and style your beard deserves.
How to Use Beard Oil and Beard Balm Together
If you decide to use both, applying them in the right order makes a huge difference. Here's a simple, effective routine to get the most out of both products:
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Wash and condition your beard (optional but recommended for longer beards):
If your beard is medium to long, it’s a good idea to start by cleansing with a gentle beard wash and following up with a beard conditioner or a few minutes of soaking in warm water. This helps remove buildup, softens coarse hair, and preps your beard to absorb moisture more effectively. If you have a shorter beard or are short on time, rinsing with warm water will still help open the pores and soften the hair. -
Dry your beard thoroughly:
Gently pat your beard dry with a towel. You want it damp, not dripping wet—too much water will prevent oils from absorbing properly. -
Apply beard oil:
Dispense a few drops of beard oil into your palms (start small—you can always add more). Rub your hands together and massage the oil deep into the beard, making sure to reach the skin underneath. Use your fingertips or a beard comb to distribute the oil evenly from root to tip. -
Apply beard balm (if styling or adding shape):
Scoop a small amount of balm and warm it between your palms until it softens. Work it into your beard, focusing on the outer hairs to smooth, tame, and shape. Balm acts as a finishing layer—locking in the moisture from the oil while adding light hold and structure. -
Comb or brush to finish:
Use a beard comb or boar-bristle brush to evenly distribute product and shape your beard into place. This helps train your beard to grow in your desired direction over time.
Ready to upgrade your routine?
Check out Imperial Scruff’s Beard Oil and Beard Balm—or save with our Beard Bundle.
Use code SCRUFF20 for 20% off your first order. Standard shipping is always free.
