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Whether you’re new to beard protocol, or you’re a longtime bard of the beard, you are probably discovering that whiskers can come with some prickly skin problems, namely beard acne, itching, dry skin, and ingrown hairs.
So what can you do to keep your facial hair free of distraction? Here’s everything you need to know to keep your skin healthy while your beard prospers.
What Causes Beard Acne?
Beard acne is driven by the same factors as any acne: clogged follicles, bacteria, and inflammation. Facial hair adds to it by trapping oil, dead skin cells, and the dust and debris your beard collects through the day. The result is more for pores to contend with in an area that is harder to keep clean.
Best Cleansers for Beard Acne
Keep skin clear of pore-clogging debris by cleansing twice daily with a gentle, exfoliating wash or scrub.
Mandelic Acid 3-In-1 Exfoliating Cleanser
Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates by helping to loosen the bonds between dead surface cells. It is the gentlest of the AHAs, so it suits the delicate skin under a beard. This cleanser helps lift away the look of buildup and cellular debris, leaving the skin beneath your beard looking smoother and more refined. Prefer a different texture? The Mandelic Acid Wash is a gentle, micro-exfoliating, brightening option.
For more resistant breakouts, benzoyl peroxide is the go-to acne treatment. It works in the pore to kill acne-causing bacteria and treat acne. The BP 3% Exfoliating Cleanser is another benzoyl peroxide option if you prefer a scrub. Follow the Drug Facts label for directions and use.
Is Beard Dandruff a Thing?
It is. Beard dandruff — itchy, flaky skin in the beard area — is often linked to a common skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which is associated with a skin yeast called Malassezia. It can show up as flaking on the scalp, eyebrows, nose, mustache, or beard. Persistent, severe, or worsening flaking is worth reviewing with a dermatologist, who can recommend a medicated treatment if needed.
As part of a daily routine, our Green Tea Cleanser is a gentle, multi-tasking formula that doubles as a beard wash and shaving gel. It helps cleanse away buildup and supports the look and feel of calmer, more comfortable skin, which makes it a useful everyday option if you have beard breakouts alongside flaking.
Dealing With Ingrown Hairs
Clean-up shaving on the neck and chin can leave razor burn and ingrown hairs. A mild exfoliating scrub such as our Mandelic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser can help free trapped hairs and support the look of smoother, calmer skin.
Follow your mandelic cleanse with Vivant's Daily Repair Pads. These textured single-use pads contain mandelic, lactic, and salicylic acids, balanced with niacinamide and zinc peptides. They help clarify the look of pores and refine the appearance of skin texture along the jaw and neck.
Detox With a Facial Mask
You might assume facial hair makes a mask impractical, but it depends on the mask and the beard. With a short beard, you can apply the mask right over the hair. With a fuller beard, use your fingers to work it onto the skin around the hairs. A clay mask is ideal because it rinses out easily, though showering makes the job simpler. Avoid peel masks that may tug the hair and sheet masks that will not reach the skin.
Sulfur Clay Mask Acne Treatment
Vivant's Sulfur Clay Mask Acne Treatment combines sulfur, an acne-fighting active, with salicylic acid and zinc sulfate in a bentonite clay base. Sulfur treats acne and helps clear breakouts. Follow the Drug Facts label for directions and use.
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