Beard itches? Our tips for dealing with annoying itching
Scratching isn't a solution. Even if you don't see a way out, let us help you!
Nobody wants annoying itching in their beard, and yet it plagues us time and again – some more than others. Your first thought is probably to simply shave it off and be done with it. But before you do that, try our tips and tricks first. One important thing to note: it's not the beard that itches, but the skin underneath. The key to combating itching lies in proper beard care. Since there are multiple causes, there's unfortunately no one-size-fits-all solution.
Common causes of itchy beard
To find the perfect solution for you, you should first understand the cause. We've listed the most common ones along with a few tips.
Cause #1: Facial skin that is too dry
Especially in winter, the skin is dried out by heating, and in summer by heat and air conditioning. Shower gel, which is unfortunately often mistaken for beard shampoo, also dries out your facial skin. This further dries out your skin, as shower gels are designed to completely remove grease and also have a different pH value. But too hot water in the shower or when washing, hairdryers, and insufficient fluid intake also contribute to dry skin.
Cause #2: Worn razor blades
Dull blades promote razor burn and ingrown hairs, which in turn lead to itching. Depending on the quality of the blade, it should be changed frequently – and "frequent" doesn't mean once or twice a year! Depending on use, a new blade should be used or the razor sharpened every 3-5 days, or at the latest every 14 days. If you're unsure whether it's time for a new blade, pay close attention to whether it's still cutting your hair properly or is causing more plucking.
Cause #3: Bacteria & Dandruff
Every day, bacteria and dandruff accumulate in your beard. But that sounds worse than it actually is. Constantly touching your face causes microbes to enter your beard and stay there for a while. But you can easily solve that. Another issue is dandruff. Dandruff, which you may already be familiar with from your scalp, can sometimes also be found in your beard. If you'd like to learn more about this, take a look here.
Cause #4: Ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs are often the result of poor shaving and razor burn . Not only are they uncomfortable and less appealing, but the inflammation can also cause itching and even pain.
What to do if your beard itches?
Now you know why your beard itches – we’ll tell you what you can do about it.
Tip #1: Wash and care
Often, it helps to use a proper beard shampoo or solid beard soap and then massage in a good beard oil . Coconut, jojoba, CBD, and argan oil are excellent base oils. This is especially important for dry facial skin and bacteria. Thorough washing and adequate care usually solves the problem. In addition to water, wash your face with a cleansing gel , for example, with CBD for demanding facial skin or with clay for a gentle exfoliating effect. The latter also helps with ingrown hairs.
Our 2-in-1 Beard Softener or another conditioner is great after washing, especially for dry or very dry facial skin ! Then keep your fingers away from your face and don't scratch. If oil isn't your go-to, try a 2-in-1 beard and face cream . This will also save you time in your beard care routine . If you have ingrown hairs, reach for a scrub and incorporate it into your routine every now and then. You can find more tips for the perfect facial care routine here.
Tip #2: Change razor blade and trim if necessary
You already know that you have to change razor blades. And we mean it! This also helps prevent ingrown hairs and razor burn . Regular trimming is also important. Yes, we always tell you to stay away from razors when growing a beard , but we also tell you that you can trim and shape your beard. Not in the first few weeks, of course. But if your beard has already reached a considerable length and thickness, feel free to trim a bit.
Tip #3: Brush
A beard brush and comb are also your best friends. Gently brush over your beard daily, applying little pressure. This massages the skin and stimulates blood circulation. It also distributes the oil from your skin and makes your beard hair look neat. This is especially great during the initial growth phase, as it allows you to "brush away" the itchiness without shaving or trimming. Oh, and yes, you should also clean the brush regularly, removing any hair, and washing it with soap and water.
Tip #4: You are what you eat
This is probably not the first time you've heard this, but what you eat has a huge impact on you. You can not only relieve itching, but also support or even reduce beard growth. If your facial skin is too dry, it helps to simply incorporate the following foods more consciously into your diet:
Coconut (oil)
Coconut (oil): the fruit's healthy fats moisturize your skin from within.
sweet potato
Their vitamin A helps your skin regenerate and prevent dryness. They should be included in your diet, especially in winter, because the vitamin C they contain strengthens your immune system.
avocado
The superfruit that now makes it onto every café's Instagram story at least once. In addition to their delicious taste, avocados work wonders thanks to their healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins!
olive oil
Here, too, we owe the positive influence on your skin to a vitamin - vitamin E. This oil is therefore also found in many skincare products, but it also moisturizes your skin from within in salads.
Carrots
Not only is it good for your eyes and maintaining your summer tan, but it's also good for collagen production. Why is this important? This structural protein ensures the strength and elasticity of your connective tissue. It also contains essential vitamins C and A.
fruit
Any fruit that has a high water content and low sugar content. Berries and kiwis, for example, are great because they provide plenty of water in addition to great vitamins. While drinking is just as important, you can also "eat" your water. Citrus fruits are also a great option!
Nuts and seeds
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, B, and E, monounsaturated fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants, they strengthen your skin's barrier, support skin elasticity and moisture, and promote cell regeneration. While the nutrients in seeds and nuts are incredible, you should consume nuts in moderation.
tea
Specifically, green tea. Packed with antioxidants, it helps your skin heal damaged areas.
Water
As already mentioned, drinking plenty of fluids is key. Unfortunately, coffee and beer don't count, sorry. If you don't like water (some people don't), squeeze half a lemon and add it to your water. It tastes especially good with mint, by the way!
Which vitamins should I pay attention to?
Vitamins C and E promote the production of a type of natural oil that naturally moisturizes your hair and facial skin. Vitamin A is even said to promote hair growth – because healthy skin creates ideal conditions for a full beard. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, prevent itching and protect skin and hair from becoming dry and brittle.
Tip #5: Take care of your skin
Supporting your skin from within through food is important, but you also shouldn't forget that your skin is your largest organ and that you absorb nutrients through it as well. Smearing nuts on your skin and beard is, of course, more difficult than eating them, but coconut and almond oil, for example, can be found in many beard and facial oils.
If you're buying cosmetics, please pay attention to the ingredients! Chemical ingredients have no place in your product and will only dry out your skin in the long run. Then you'll need more oil, and you'll be stuck in a vicious cycle, making your beard itch even more.
Certified natural cosmetics are a great indicator! Argan, jojoba, castor are also popular and great oils for skin and hair. It doesn't necessarily have to be an oil, though; there are also great creams.
You can also mix your own beard conditioner or face mask using home remedies, but we can't guarantee this. Avocado, olive oil, and lemon, for example, are said to be a good combination, and when we look at the active ingredients in each ingredient, it sounds good. But hey, the proof of the pudding is in the pudding, right? If you ever mix something up, please let us know!
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Do you also suffer from an itchy beard? What's your best tip? We'd love to hear from you on Facebook and Instagram !
Your Brooklyn Soap Team/Academy
FAQs
What to do if your beard itches?
It's best to first figure out why your beard itches. This will make the next step much more effective. Depending on the cause of your itching, you should try one or two (or more) of our tips! If the itching doesn't improve after a while, ask your dermatologist if they can prepare a cream specifically tailored to your facial skin or offer other tips. It could also be due to an intolerance to a product, food, etc.
Why does my beard itch when I grow it?
Beard itching occurs like this: When you shave, a sharp edge forms on your beard hair, which then scratches your skin. This roughens your skin and causes it to itch. The edge reappears with each shave, causing it to itch even more. That's why we say: Let your beard grow and support it. Furthermore, your skin is irritated and stressed by shaving and everyday influences, and then the sharp, cut hairs may also be a factor.
How long does the beard itch?
It depends on the cause. If it's solely due to your dry skin, he'll scratch until your skin is no longer dry. And this isn't a one-time occurrence; it's something you should incorporate into your daily routine to prevent further itching. Your whole body will benefit from it, too. If it's due to blunt razor blades and razor burn , then he'll scratch until you change the blades and the razor burn goes away. Unfortunately, we can't give you more precise information on days or weeks, sorry.
Beard itches when kissing - what can I do?
Beard softener is your best friend here. Otherwise, brush your beard regularly, use beard oil , and take good care of it. Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent and relieve itching.
I'm on the go and don't have anything handy - what can I do?
Rinse your beard with water. This can help in the short term, as small flakes of skin may have become stuck to your beard and are tickling your facial skin.
Discover more beard care tips in our Academy
Dandruff in the beard – How to recognize it and get rid of it
Beard care: Why and how to best care for your beard
Beard ringworm – causes, symptoms, treatment & prevention
Shaping a full beard: trimming, contouring and caring for the beard properly
3-day beard – uncomplicated, easy-care & casual