lanolin oil for hair

What is Beard Balm and How Does It Transform Your Facial Hair?

If you’re someone who’s passionate about facial hair, you know that it takes a lot of effort to maintain and groom it. While growing a beard comes naturally to most men, maintaining it can be challenging. That’s where beard balm comes in.

Beard balm is a grooming product that helps keep your beard soft, smooth, and well-groomed. It’s made of natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils that nourish your facial hair and skin.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what beard balm is, how it works, and the benefits of using one.

BEARD BALM INGREDIENTS

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the primary ingredients in beard balm, providing the product with its hold and shaping abilities. It helps in styling your beard by giving it structure and definition. Beeswax also offers a protective layer, safeguarding your facial hair from external elements while locking in moisture.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is known for its excellent moisturizing properties. It hydrates both the beard strands and the underlying skin, preventing dryness and itchiness. Shea butter also contributes to the softness and manageability of the beard.

Carrier Oils

Various carrier oils, such as jojoba oil, argan oil, and coconut oil, are commonly included in beard balm formulations. These oils provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and fatty acids that nourish the beard and promote healthy growth. They also add a natural sheen to the facial hair, giving it a well-groomed appearance.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are not only responsible for giving beard balm its pleasing scent but also offer additional benefits. Oils like cedarwood, sandalwood, and lavender have aromatherapeutic properties and can contribute to a relaxing grooming experience. Some essential oils also possess antibacterial or anti-inflammatory qualities, benefiting the skin beneath the beard.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is often included in beard balm for its moisturizing properties and its ability to add a velvety texture to the product. It aids in softening the beard and providing a smooth application.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps in promoting overall skin health and repairing damaged hair follicles. It can contribute to a healthier, fuller beard over time.

Natural Fragrances

Beard balms can feature natural fragrances derived from essential oils. These scents not only make the grooming routine more enjoyable but also provide a subtle and refreshing aroma to your beard.

Lanolin

Lanolin is another ingredient that’s sometimes included in beard balm formulations. It helps in locking in moisture, providing a barrier against dryness and environmental factors.

How Does Beard Balm Work?

Beard balm works by providing two main benefits: moisturizing and styling.

When you apply beard balm, the natural ingredients penetrate your facial hair and skin, providing moisture and hydration. This helps prevent dryness, flakiness, and itchiness while making your beard look and feel softer.

Moreover, beard balm also provides hold, keeping your facial hair in place and preventing flyaways and stray hairs. This is particularly useful for longer beards that tend to get unruly.

HOW TO APPLY BEARD BALM

Step 1: Cleanse Your Beard

Begin the process by washing your beard thoroughly with a gentle beard shampoo. This cleanses your facial hair and the underlying skin, removing any dirt, oils, or product buildup. Pat your beard dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Scoop Out a Small Amount

Open the container of beard balm and scoop out a small amount using your fingertip or the back of your thumbnail. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way, especially if you’re new to using beard balm.

Step 3: Warm the Balm

Rub the balm between your palms to warm it up. This helps to melt the balm slightly, making it easier to distribute evenly throughout your beard.

Step 4: Apply to Your Beard

Start applying the beard balm from the roots of your facial hair, working your way down to the tips. Ensure that the balm is evenly spread, covering all the beard strands. Use your fingers to gently massage the balm into your beard and the underlying skin. This not only conditions your facial hair but also promotes healthy growth.

Step 5: Style Your Beard

After applying the balm, you can use a beard comb or brush to shape and style your beard as desired. Beard balm offers a light to medium hold, which helps in taming unruly hairs and maintaining the desired shape throughout the day.

Step 6: Allow the Balm to Settle

Give the beard balm a few minutes to settle in. As it absorbs, it will provide a natural sheen to your beard, giving it a healthy and well-maintained appearance.

Step 7: Clean Up Excess Balm

If you feel that you’ve applied too much balm and your beard appears greasy or heavy, you can use a dry towel to gently pat away the excess. Remember, finding the right amount for your beard’s length and texture might take a little trial and error.

Step 8: Enjoy the Benefits

Regular use of beard balm not only improves the look and feel of your facial hair but also helps in nourishing the skin underneath. The natural ingredients often found in beard balms can promote hair health and prevent itchiness or dryness.

Benefits of Using Beard Balm

Using beard balm has several benefits for your facial hair and skin, including:

  • Moisturizes the skin: The natural ingredients in beard balm provide moisture and hydration to the skin under your beard, preventing dryness and itchiness.
  • Softens facial hair: Beard balm helps soften and condition your facial hair, making it easier to manage and style.
  • Prevents split ends: The moisturizing and nourishing properties of beard balm help prevent split ends and breakage.
  • Provides hold: Unlike beard oil, beard balm provides a light hold, keeping your facial hair in place and looking well-groomed.
  • Adds shine: Coconut oil in beard balm adds shine to your beard, making it look healthier and more vibrant.

Best Beard Balms For Better Styling

  1. Honest Amish Original Beard Balm: Made with all-natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and essential oils, this beard balm conditions and styles your beard while providing a woodsy scent.
  2. Smooth Viking Beard Balm: This beard balm contains argan oil, jojoba oil, and mango butter, which helps moisturize and soften your beard while providing a light hold and a refreshing scent.
  3. Beard Bolt XL Beard Balm: Infused with eucalyptus and lavender essential oils, this beard balm provides a soothing scent while conditioning and styling your beard.
  1. Mountaineer Brand WV Timber Beard Balm: Made with cedarwood, fir needle, and patchouli essential oils, this beard balm provides a masculine scent and keeps your beard soft and healthy.
  2. Billy Jealousy Beard Balm: This balm is known for its strong hold and matte finish. It is made with natural ingredients, including argan oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter, which help to moisturize and soften the beard. It also has a subtle woodsy scent.
  3. Cremo Styling Beard Balm: This balm is easy to apply and gives a medium hold. It is made with a blend of natural oils and butters, including argan oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter, which help to moisturize and soften the beard. It also has a light, refreshing scent.
  4. Uppercut Beard Balm: It is a good choice for those who want a strong hold and a shiny finish. It is made with natural ingredients, including beeswax, shea butter, and argan oil, which help to condition and protect the beard. It also has a subtle citrus scent.
  5. Grave Before Shave Beard Balm: Grave balm is made with all-natural ingredients, including beeswax, shea butter, and essential oils. It is a good choice for those with sensitive skin. It has a light hold and a natural finish.
  6. Wild Willies Beard Butter: This beard butter is a good choice for those who want a heavy moisturizer. It is made with a blend of natural oils and butters, including shea butter, cocoa butter, and mango butter. It has a light, nutty scent.
  7. Detroit Grooming Co. Beard Balm: This balm is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including argan oil, jojoba oil, and beeswax. It has a medium hold and a natural finish. It also has a subtle woodsy scent.

Comparisons: Beard Balm vs. Beard Oil

While both beard balm and beard oil serve the same purpose of grooming your facial hair, they have some key differences.

Beard oil is a conditioning product that moisturizes and nourishes your facial hair and skin. It’s made of carrier oils like jojoba, argan, or coconut oil, which penetrate the skin and hair, providing hydration and nutrients.

On the other hand, beard balm not only conditions but also provides hold to your facial hair, keeping it in place and preventing flyaways. It’s made of natural ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and essential oils that provide moisture, hydration, and fragrance.

If you have a short beard, beard oil might be sufficient. However, if you have a longer beard that needs more styling, beard balm would be a better choice.

Advices for Using Beard Balm

  • Start with a clean and dry beard: Wash your beard with a gentle shampoo and towel dry it before applying beard balm.
  • Use a small amount: A pea-sized amount of beard balm is usually enough for most beards. Rub it between your palms to warm it up and apply it evenly throughout your beard.
  • Comb or brush your beard: After applying beard balm, use a comb or brush to distribute it evenly and style your beard as desired.
  • Experiment with different brands: Different beard balms have varying fragrances and consistencies. Try out a few different brands to find the one that works best for you.
  • Store in a cool, dry place: To prolong the shelf life of your beard balm, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

FAQs

  1. Can I use beard balm every day? Yes, you can use beard balm every day. In fact, using it daily helps keep your beard looking and feeling healthy and well-groomed.
  2. Can beard balm help with beard itch? Yes, beard balm can help with beard itch by moisturizing and nourishing the skin under your beard, preventing dryness and flakiness.
  3. Is beard balm suitable for all beard types? Yes, beard balm is suitable for all beard types, whether short or long.
  4. How often should I apply beard balm? It depends on your beard type and personal preference. Most people apply beard balm once a day, but if you have a particularly dry or unruly beard, you can apply it twice a day.
  5. Can beard balm cause acne? No, beard balm is unlikely to cause acne as long as you clean and moisturize your skin regularly and avoid applying too much product.

Conclusion

Beard balm is an essential grooming product for anyone serious about maintaining a healthy and well-groomed beard. By providing moisture, nourishment, and hold to your facial hair, beard balm helps keep your beard looking and feeling its best.

Whether you’re a seasoned beards man or just starting your beard journey, adding beard balm to your grooming routine can make a significant difference. So why not give it a try and see the results for yourself?

25 BEST GIFTS FOR NEW MOMS

The birth of a baby is a special time that brings happiness and excitement, but it also requires a lot of adjustments. New moms are like superheroes starting a wonderful, but often tired, journey. To show your love and support, a well-chosen gift can make their experience easier and more enjoyable. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to pick the right present. Don’t worry! This list has 25 great gift ideas for new moms, suited to different needs and budgets.

BEST GIFTS FOR NEW MOMS

NURSING ENTERTAINMENT

When it comes to gifts for moms-to-be, nursing entertainment options can be a thoughtful and practical choice. New moms often spend long hours breastfeeding their babies, and having something to keep them entertained during those moments can make a big difference. Consider giving a subscription to audiobooks, podcasts, or streaming services so that they can enjoy their favorite shows or listen to engaging stories while caring for their little one. These gifts not only provide entertainment but also help moms relax and make nursing sessions more enjoyable.

ESARORA ICE ROLLER

The Esarora Ice Roller is a fantastic choice for new moms. This handy device offers a refreshing and soothing experience, especially during those hectic early days of motherhood. The ice roller can help reduce puffiness, soothe tired eyes, and relieve headaches, providing much-needed relief for sleep-deprived moms. Its compact size and ease of use make it convenient for quick self-care sessions whenever they need a little pick-me-up. The Esarora Ice Roller is a budget-friendly gift for women under $25 that can make a significant impact on a new mom’s well-being and self-care routine.

A HEALING BALM

Among the top gifts for women in 2022, the Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream stands out as a perfect choice for new parents. With the constant need for handwashing due to diaper changes, spit-up, and the delicate immune systems of newborns, parenthood brings a whole new level of importance to maintaining supple skin. This intensively moisturizing cream has long been a favorite of Wirecutter staff and is considered a classic in the beauty world. It combines powerful moisturizers like lanolin, beeswax, sweet almond, and sunflower seed oils to prevent water loss, along with soothing botanicals such as chamomile, viola tricolor, and calendula. 

LOULOU LOLLIPOP NEW YORK CITY DELUXE MUSLIN SWADDLE BLANKET

A classic receiving blanket, like the incredibly soft muslin one from Loulou Lollipop, is a versatile gift that can serve multiple purposes for new moms. Aside from being an excellent swaddle for the baby, it can also be used as a nursing shawl, a cover for the car seat, and a burp cloth. With its New York-themed design, it adds a touch of style and charm to any baby ensemble. This multipurpose blanket is not only practical but also a lovely and thoughtful gift for new moms.

LOW-EFFORT DINNER 

Low-effort is also on the list of best gifts for new mothers. Adjusting to life with a newborn can be overwhelming, leaving little time and energy to prepare meals. That’s why gifting a meal delivery service or a selection of pre-made frozen meals can be a thoughtful and practical choice. With these options, new mothers can enjoy delicious and nutritious dinners without the hassle of cooking. It gives them the convenience and comfort they need during this busy time, allowing them to focus on taking care of their little ones.

MOBILE PHOTO PRINTER

A mobile photo printer can be a great gift for new moms. It’s a simple device that allows them to print photos directly from their smartphones. With this handy gadget, new moms can easily capture and print precious moments with their little ones. Whether it’s a cute smile or a milestone achievement, they can instantly have physical copies of these special memories. The mobile photo printer is portable and easy to use, making it convenient for on-the-go printing. 

A ONE-HANDED WATER BOTTLE

An essential item for new moms on the go is a one-handed water bottle. This cleverly designed water bottle allows them to stay hydrated with ease, even while juggling the demands of taking care of their little one. With its innovative design, moms can open and close the bottle using just one hand, leaving their other hand free for holding the baby, pushing a stroller, or attending to other tasks. The spill-proof feature ensures that they can take a sip whenever they need it, without worrying about leaks or messes. 

BABY FOOTPRINT KIT & HANDPRINT KIT

This delightful kit is a perfect gift for new moms who want to capture and cherish those precious early memories. The setting clay allows them to create a beautiful keepsake of their baby’s tiny hands and feet, preserving them in a unique and sentimental way. With the included alphabet stamps, they can personalize the frame by adding their child’s name and birth date, making it a truly special memento that they can treasure for years to come.

TINY GOLD HOOPS

When babies begin to grab things, wearing large jewelry becomes impractical. That’s where Automic Gold’s Mini Seamless Huggie Hoops come to the rescue. These timeless and ungraspable earrings are made in New York from 14-karat yellow, white, or rose gold, which is upcycled from old electronics and jewelry. The hoops feature an invisible lock that clasps securely, requiring just a fingertip to locate the open edge for opening and closing them. Their seamless construction ensures comfort, making them suitable for wearing even during sleep, which is especially convenient for new moms who catch some much-needed rest whenever they can.

BABY’S FRIEND

If you ask any experienced parent, they’ll emphasize one important item: Sophie the giraffe. This adorable teether in the shape of a giraffe is renowned for providing comfort to babies, and it’s crafted from 100 percent natural rubber. It’s a universal favorite among babies, including both of my own daughters. There’s something about its design that makes it ideal for tiny hands and mouths. We never left home without it, as it quickly became an essential companion for our little ones.

SOOTHING NURSING PILLOWS

Soothing nursing pillows are a wonderful gift for new moms. These pillows provide comfort and support during breastfeeding sessions, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. They are specially designed to help moms find a comfortable position while feeding their baby, reducing strain on their back, neck, and arms. The softness and cushioning of the pillows provide a cozy nest for the baby, promoting a secure and close bond between mom and child. With soothing nursing pillows, new moms can have a more comfortable and nurturing breastfeeding experience, making it a thoughtful and practical gift choice.

A BOX OF SURPRISE

This special box is filled with a variety of surprises and treats to bring joy and pampering to the new mom. It may include self-care items like bath bombs, scented candles, face masks, or relaxing teas. It could also contain small gifts for the baby, such as cute onesies or soft toys. The element of surprise adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for the new mom, making it a truly memorable and heartwarming gift. This box of surprises is a wonderful way to show love and support to the new mom during this important and transformative time in her life.

SILICONE BREAST PUMP

This type of breast pump is made from soft and flexible silicone material, which makes it comfortable to use. It works by creating a gentle suction that helps draw out breast milk. Silicone breast pumps are compact, portable, and easy to clean, making them convenient for on-the-go use. They are especially handy for collecting milk during breastfeeding sessions or when experiencing let-down on the opposite breast. With a silicone breast pump, new moms can easily and discreetly collect breast milk, providing them with an efficient and convenient option for breastfeeding and milk storage.

BABY’S BACKPACK

If you’re seeking a practical and unexpected gift for a new mom, consider a fantastic hiking backpack that can be used for outdoor adventures or even everyday outings. This hiking baby carrier boasts padded shoulder straps and a spacious hip belt, ensuring the utmost comfort. It features convenient pockets in the hip belt for easy access to phones and wallets, as well as ample storage space for all the essential items in a diaper bag. The little one will relish the elevated and secure padded seat, the removable napping pillow, the optional sunshade, and the opportunity to view the wonders of the great outdoors. This hiking backpack is a thoughtful and versatile gift that will prove invaluable throughout the coming year.

BABY BOUNCER

These versatile and entertaining items provide a safe and comfortable place for babies to play and relax. The gentle bouncing motion can soothe and entertain little ones, giving moms a much-needed break. Some baby bouncers come with additional features like music, vibrations, and toys to stimulate the baby’s senses. They are portable and easy to move around the house, allowing moms to keep an eye on their little one while attending to other tasks. 

SELF-WATERING POTS

With a self-watering pot, new moms don’t have to worry about constantly monitoring and watering their plants. The built-in reservoir system ensures that the plants receive the right amount of water without the risk of overwatering or underwatering. This feature is especially beneficial for moms who may have limited time or experience in plant care. Self-watering pots not only bring beauty and greenery to the home but also offer a convenient and low-maintenance solution for nurturing plants.

SKINCARE GIFT

She’s probably stocked up on everything the baby needs, but it’s important to consider her own well-being too. This clean skin care set is a thoughtful gift that includes three essential items (nipple balm, body cream, and face wash) specially curated for new moms. These products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free, ensuring gentle and safe care for her skin during this special time.

A PERSONALIZED NECKLACE

If you’re looking for a timeless piece to last long after the days of swaddles and sleep regressions, we suggest the 14k Gold Asymmetrical Initial Necklace from Los Angeles–based jeweler Zoe Lev. Each necklace is forged from recycled yellow, white, or rose gold. It’s likely to become the kind of piece she never takes off. The sideways initial in a sans serif font has a modern appeal that’s classic enough to fit a range of styles. Zoe Lev also offers repairs and alterations—such as adding another initial down the road—for a nominal fee.

MIRACLE BABY MIRACLE BLANKET

If you’re seeking a reliable and tried-and-true swaddle option, Laura Izumikawa, a blogger, author, and mom of two, highly recommends the Miracle Blanket. This traditional-style swaddle has proven to be foolproof in her experience. According to Laura, swaddling her girls in this specific wrap brought them increased contentment and longer sleep durations.

RECORD SPECIAL MOMENTS

The early years fly by in no time! Capture all the wonderful moments with this charming baby book. The Memory Book is a 48-page keepsake designed thoughtfully for busy parents. It features simple prompts to record key milestones and provides convenient spaces to attach photos, making it effortless to document and cherish those precious memories.

SWEET READS

Attempting to encapsulate the multifaceted journey of motherhood in a single sentence, paragraph, or book is an immense task. However, Grace Farris, a doctor, mother, and author, bravely takes on this challenge in her illustrated manual, Mom Milestones. Born from her popular Instagram account, this book showcases heartwarming and insightful sketches that delve into her own humbling experiences of parenthood. From the early stages of being a Newborn Mom to navigating the world of Elementary School Mom, Farris traces the evolution of a mother with poignant reflections like “Notes I Would Send Myself” and “Tricks That Don’t Work.” Particularly for new moms, this affirming read serves as a literary road map, offering guidance through the challenging yet immensely rewarding path that lies ahead.

GIFT CARD

Takeout-delivery gift cards are always great for new parents, but there’s something to be said for having a stash of wholesome, ready-to-go frozen meals on hand when they’re feeling peckish. Ipsa, which several Strategist staffers and I swear by, allows folks to order high-end, actually delicious dishes like lasagne ai funghi and green-chicken enchilada bake à la carte.

TOTE

It’s important not to underestimate the amount of items a new mom needs to carry around. This lovely bag will become her trusted companion during errand runs, trips to the park, doctor’s appointments, and beyond. Additionally, it comes in a versatile black color that helps conceal any spills or messes that may occur along the way. With this bag, new moms can stay organized and stylish while effortlessly managing all their essential belongings.

BAD-HAIR DAYS, BEGONE

Hair claws are having a renaissance, and no demographic is better suited to embracing the trend than newly anointed moms. The Emi Jay Big Effing Clip is mom and senior editor Catherine Kast’s favorite clip for a few reasons: It’s huge, sturdy, and crack resistant, and it comes in a ton of fun shades and finishes. And it’s versatile enough for every stage of new-momhood, from the stage where the new mom doesn’t wash her hair to the stage where the little one pulls out her hair to the stage where she finally ventures out on her first, much-needed date night.

ORGANIC MIXED FRUIT

This thoughtful and nutritious gift provides a variety of delicious fruits that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, ensuring a healthier option for both the mom and her family. Organic mixed fruit gifts often include a selection of seasonal fruits, such as apples, oranges, berries, and tropical fruits, providing a vibrant and flavorful assortment. These fruits are not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also offer natural sweetness and refreshing flavors. Offering an organic mixed fruit gift to a new mom is a delightful way to promote her well-being and provide a nourishing treat during this special time.

CONCLUSION

The 25 best gifts for new moms encompass a wide range of thoughtful and practical options that cater to their needs and celebrate this transformative journey. From luxurious self-care items to functional baby gear, these gifts aim to support and uplift new moms during this extraordinary chapter of their lives. With the best gifts for new moms, we can show our appreciation and help them navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood with love, care, and a touch of indulgence.