How to wash your face with a beard

Caring for your skin when you have a beard is a whole different ball game. That wild and manly forest on your face adds extra steps and a certain finesse to your skincare routine. But fear not, bearded brothers—the process is more fun than it sounds. We’re going to embark on a step-by-step journey to help you keep your skin (and your beard) clean and healthy.

Photo by abdullah ali on Unsplash

Preparation is Key

Your beard may be your pride and joy—a work of follicular art, if you will. But remember, beneath that majestic fuzz there’s skin that needs attention too. So, let’s gather what you need: a quality beard wash (not the same as your head-hair shampoo), a gentle face cleanser suitable for your skin type, a beard conditioner or oil, and a clean, soft towel.

The Pre-wash Rinse

Stand in front of your mirror, take a moment to appreciate your magnificent beard, and then start with a pre-wash rinse. Warm water is your friend here—it helps open the pores and soften the beard, prepping your skin and hair for cleansing. Avoid very hot water, though, since it can strip natural oils and cause dryness and flaking.

The Actual Wash

Begin with your beard. Take a coin-sized amount of beard shampoo and work it into your facial hair. Start from the roots and massage the shampoo in gentle, circular motions all the way to the skin beneath. This helps dislodge dead skin cells (aka beardruff) and dirt trapped under your beard. Think of it as a much-deserved beard massage for your face.

Rinse thoroughly. Any leftover shampoo can dry out your beard and skin, leading to itchiness—and we definitely don’t want that.

Next, take your face cleanser. Apply it to the areas not covered by your beard, again in gentle circular motions, taking care not to over-dry your skin. Rinse well.

Post-Wash Rinse

Once everything is washed, it’s time for a final rinse. Use cool water this time. It helps to close your pores and may reduce the chance of dirt and bacteria slipping in later.

Drying

Remember that soft, clean towel? Now’s its time to shine. Gently pat your face and beard dry instead of rubbing. Rubbing can irritate the skin and create frizz in your beard. Leaving the beard slightly damp also makes it easier to apply beard oil or conditioner.

Conditioning

Once you’ve patted everything dry, it’s time to moisturize. If you skip this step, your skin can end up feeling drier than a desert under that glorious beard. Apply beard oil to give your beard shine and softness. It helps prevent brittleness and also hydrates the skin underneath.

Then take a beard comb or brush to gently detangle knots and distribute the product evenly. This also trains your beard to grow in a particular direction, helping you maintain its shape. And voila—you’ve got a clean, shiny, happy beard and face.

To keep your beard and skin in top shape, repeat this process 2–3 times a week. Over-washing can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. And remember, no two beards are the same. What works for one may not work for another. Depending on the thickness, length, and texture of your beard, you might adjust how much product you use—or even which products. Some bearded gents, for example, prefer a beard balm instead of oil for a bit more hold and style.

Maintenance is King

Even on non-wash days, maintenance matters. Brush your beard daily to keep it tangle-free and to distribute natural oils. If you live in a dry climate, consider using beard oil daily. Keep the skin under your beard moisturized with a non-comedogenic moisturizer suited to your skin type.

Pro Tip: Diet and Exercise

This might not seem directly related to washing your face, but it absolutely helps. A healthy diet and regular exercise support your overall well-being and the health of your skin and hair. Staying hydrated, eating plenty of proteins, vitamins, and healthy fats, and breaking a sweat regularly can help you grow a fuller, healthier beard and keep your skin glowing.

When in Doubt, Consult a Professional

If you’re new to the beard game—or dealing with issues like severe beardruff, persistent itching, patchy growth, or acne under the beard—consider seeing a professional. A dermatologist can help you understand your skin type and recommend the best routine and products for you.

So there you have it: the fun, fulfilling, and refreshing process of washing your face with a beard. It might seem like a lot at first, but with practice it becomes a quick, enjoyable routine that leaves your skin feeling clean and your beard looking its best. The satisfaction of keeping that facial mane glorious is well worth the effort.

Shop the full line of Kingsmen Premium products to get everything you need to keep your beard and face looking and feeling their best. Start with a beard care kit for a one-click experience that provides all the tools your beard needs.

So embrace your beard—and the skincare journey that comes with it. Bearded brethren, march on!