What’s the Difference Between Beard Oil and Beard Balm?
If you're growing a beard or already sporting one, you've likely come across two essential grooming products: beard oil and beard balm. While they might seem similar at first glance, they serve different purposes and offer distinct benefits for your beard and skin.
At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we often get asked which product is better—or if both should be part of your routine. The answer depends on your beard type, skin condition, and grooming goals. Let’s break down the difference between beard oil and beard balm so you can decide what’s right for you.
1. What Is Beard Oil?
Beard oil is a lightweight conditioning product made primarily from natural oils. It’s designed to hydrate both your facial hair and the skin underneath.
Key benefits of beard oil:
Moisturizes dry skin beneath the beard
Reduces itchiness and beard dandruff (also known as “beardruff”)
Softens facial hair and makes it more manageable
Adds a healthy, subtle shine
Promotes healthy beard growth
Best for:
Short to medium-length beards
Dry or itchy skin
Daily hydration needs
How to use it:
Apply a few drops (depending on beard length) to your palms
Rub hands together and massage the oil into your beard and skin
Use a beard comb or brush to evenly distribute
Beard oil is especially helpful during the early stages of beard growth when itchiness and dryness are most common.
2. What Is Beard Balm?
Beard balm is a thicker, leave-in conditioner that combines oils, butters (like shea or cocoa), and waxes (like beeswax). It moisturizes like oil but also provides hold and styling control.
Key benefits of beard balm:
Conditions and hydrates beard hair
Provides light to medium hold for shaping
Helps control flyaways and frizz
Adds volume and structure to the beard
Offers longer-lasting moisture compared to oil
Best for:
Medium to long beards
Unruly or coarse beard hair
Gentle shaping or styling
How to use it:
Scoop a small amount (dime-sized) with your fingertip
Warm it up between your palms until it softens
Work it into your beard, starting at the base and moving outward
Use a comb or brush to style as desired
Beard balm is perfect for guys who want their beard to look neat and full without using harsh styling products.
3. Beard Oil vs. Beard Balm: Which One Should You Choose?
The decision comes down to what your beard needs and how you want it to look and feel.
Feature Beard Oil Beard Balm Texture Light and liquid Thicker and creamy Main Purpose Moisturize skin and soften beard Moisturize and style Best For Dry skin, itchiness, short beards Styling, frizz control, longer beards Hold None Light to medium hold Shine Light shine Matte to light shine
You should choose beard oil if:
You’re in the early stages of growing a beard
Your skin feels itchy or flaky
You prefer a lightweight, no-hold product
You should choose beard balm if:
Your beard is getting longer or feels coarse
You want more control and shape
You need longer-lasting hydration
Or better yet, use both:
Apply beard oil in the morning for quick hydration and follow with beard balm if you’re heading out and want a more polished look.
Conclusion
Both beard oil and beard balm play important roles in maintaining a healthy, attractive beard. Beard oil focuses on hydration and skin care, while beard balm adds an extra layer of control and shape. For the best grooming routine, consider keeping both in your kit and using them based on your beard’s needs and your daily plans.
At In The Cut Barbershop in Vancouver, we don’t just offer precision haircuts—we’re experts in beard care too. Whether you need help choosing the right product or want your beard professionally shaped and styled, our barbers have got you covered. Book your appointment today and experience premium grooming tailored to your beard, style, and lifestyle.
