This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (2024)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (1)

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Perfecting your beard may look effortless, but in reality, it can take a lot of work. Issues like ingrown hairs or beard itch can come from shaving or faulty razors. Or you may not have been blessed with genetics that make a full healthy beard possible and are forced to coax your facial hair to grow. Regardless of your situation, we’re here to provide the best beard products currently on the market that can help take patchy beards to a well maintained and thriving one.

Our top picks:

The good news is that the items that work best for your specific beard needs don’t have to break the bank. We have listed several drugstore options that are best rated on Amazon and Reddit as well as some luxe brands that deliver when it comes to beard care. Our picks include smoothing balms, moisturizing oils, velvety creams and conditioning shampoos that have been reported to help soothe irritated or sensitive skin, promote growth and are winners when it comes to softening otherwise prickly or wiry hairs.

We didn’t stop at skincare products and face washes. This list also features a few grooming and styling tools that will ensure that your beard (or the beard that belongs to the man you are planning to buy a gift for) is expertly manicured. That means you’ll also find beard brushes, combs and trimmers below as well.

While the products listed here have not been tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute, you can rest assured that we did more than our due diligence when it comes to scouring the internet for reviews and speaking with consumers that have already adopted these products into their daily routines. Get ready to take your grooming game to the next level.

1

Best Set to Promote Beard Growth

XIKEZAN Beard Straightener w/Beard Balm & Beard Growth Oil

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (8)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (9)Straightener comes with three heat settings
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (10)Set includes brush, comb and scissors
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (11)Oil has nice scent and reviewers have seen increased growth
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (12)Straightener can become hot to touch so use caution

Tackle beard growth from every angle with this straightener, balm and growth oil combo. According to Cremo grooming company, beard straightening includes benefits like lengthening your beard and keeping it free of tangles, so it is a winner for anyone who is looking for ease with trimming or alternate styling options. One reviewer also noted that the "oil keeps my beard moisturized" and "the balm is good for conditioning; using them both together gives my beard a nice sheen and silky texture."

2

Best Beard & Mustache Scissors

ONTAKI 5" Professional German Beard & Mustache Scissors

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (13)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (14)Perfect size for travel
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (15)Sharp scissors
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (16)Mixed reviews on comb effectiveness for long beards

Over 3,000 Amazon reviewers have raved that this scissor and comb set works well for trimming and keeping flyaways manicured. "You gotta have one nice pair for personal grooming and these have been serving me well for the months I've had it," a reviewer said. He also noted that they are lightweight and "cut promptly."

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3

Best Beard Conditioning Balm

Honest Amish Beard Balm Leave-in Conditioner

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (17)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (18)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (19)Great for conditioning facial hair
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (20)Combats dryness and dandruff
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (21)Has over 35,000 Amazon reviews
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (22)May separate when exposed to temperature fluctuations
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (23)Polarizing scent

With a sale price that comes in just under $12 it's no wonder that a whopping 35,000 Amazon reviewers can't get enough of this beard balm. Not only is it affordable, but several people who have purchased the product love that a little goes a long way, it softens facial hair and also helps with beard itch and dandruff. "My beard is softer [after using the balm] and it looks nicer too. I'd recommend the product to anyone who uses a stronger soap for face cleaning as a strong soap turns your beard hair into steel wool. This, along with some good conditioner, helps put things back into shape," one reviewer wrote.

4

Best Hydrating Beard Oil

Goodfellow & Co Beard Oil No. 03, Moroccan & Cedar

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (24)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (25)Hydrates skin and facial hair
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (26)Built-in dropper
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (27)Some reviewers found it too thick

For men with dry beards, this hydrating oil is a winner. Several reviewers have said that the oil is gentle on the skin and penetrates thicker beards. "[The oil] softens hair, making it easier to lay down (if you have a coarser texture) and provides shine," a reviewer noted.

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Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (30)Pump packaging for convenient use
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (31)Long-lasting sheen
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (32)Some say the scent is overpowering

A blend of coconut, grapeseed, olive and sunflower oils help this beard oil to soften facial hair, while maracuja oil and shea butter deliver hydration and conditioning. Reviewers commented that it is great at providing a lasting sheen and has a pleasant scent. "I have really dry skin and this has helped. Way better than many other oils out there," an Amazon reviewer said.

6

Best Beard Kit To Gift

Jack Black Beard Grooming Kit

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (33)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (34)Relieves beard itch
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (35)Great for thick beards
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (36)Small enough for travel
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (37)Pricey
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (38)Small containers

If you are looking for a beard gift set for the holidays, Jack Black should be your go-to. The beard wash (which made our list of best beard shampoos), beard lube and oil all work together to soften and control unruly beards. The products are small enough that he can sample them before deciding to commit to a full size.

"Got this kit as a gift to my boomer dad who has had an epic beard since his high school years," one Amazon reviewer wrote. "Pop swears by the stuff. Loves it, has recommended it to his other buddies to add to their self-care routine... I’ve been buying him a kit every Father’s Day now and he gets excited every time."

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7

Best Beard Brush

Cremo 100% Boar Bristle Beard Brush with Wood Handle

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (39)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (40)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (41)Durable
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (42)Bristles are full and soft
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (43)May take on scent of beard butters and oils

Boar bristles make this wooden brush great for shaping and styling beards. It features firm bristles, fits easily in your hand and is able to distribute products throughout the beard evenly. Reviewers also praise it for being durable and not easily losing bristles. "Gets cut hair and dandruff out. No bristles have ejected yet. Better than combs for short hair and beards," an Amazon reviewer said.

8

Best Beard Trimmer

Wahl Clipper Corp. All in One Rechargeable Beard Mustache Trimmer Detailer

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (44)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (45)Rechargable
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (46)Affordable
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (47)Can rust

Even the most awesome beards need a trim every now and then. When that time comes, you'll want to be ready with this all-in-one trimmer. Reviewers love that it comes charged and is easy to use. "My husband loves it… he can do everything he needs to to take care of his trimming and shaving needs. Very durable and user friendly!" a reviewer wrote.

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9

Best Beard Shampoo and Conditioning Set

Viking Revolution Beard Wash & Beard Conditioner Set

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (48)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (49)A little goes a long way
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (50)Great for sensitive skin
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (51)Reduces dandruff
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (52)Peppermint scent may be strong to some

If you're hoping to kill two birds with one stone, this set will do the trick. It includes a beard wash and conditioner to both clean and hydrate facial hair. Over 8,000 Amazon reviewers have raved about its soothing peppermint and eucalyptus scent as well as the duo's ability to soften beards and get rid of dandruff. "After using this just one time, I felt a huge difference in the softness of my beard. This is now a part of my daily wash routine because it works so well," an Amazon reviewer wrote.

10

Best Beard Wash for Dry Skin

King C. Gillette Beard Wash

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (53)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (54)Conditions skin and facial hair
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (55)Helps reduce beard itch
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (56)Light scent

Coconut water, argan oil and avocado oil work together in this wash to provide moisture while menthol delivers a cooling sensation for a clean you can feel. Over 3,500 Amazon reviewers have rated it five stars and several have noted that just a small amount of the product goes a long way. It also reduces dryness and cleans skin and hair without a greasy feeling. "Great scent. Leaves my beard and face soft," an Amazon reviewer said.

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11

Best Beard Cream For Styling

Cremo Beard & Scruff Cream

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (57)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (58)

Now 18% Off

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (59)Lightweight
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (60)Light hold
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (61)Mint scent is strong

If you're looking for a beard product that will tame your facial hair without leaving it greasy or with too much shine, you'll love this cream. It is lightweight and nourishing and comes in three different scents. Over 6,000 people have given it positive reviews on Amazon, noting that it is great at softening facial hair.

12

Best Beard Jelly

Bossman Beard Oil Jelly

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (62)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (63)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (64)Easy to apply
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (65)Thicker consistency than oil
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (66)May transfer

When it comes to beard grooming, oils can be runny and creams can be too thick; this product's jelly-like consistency will give your beard the best of both worlds. With over 14,000 reviews on Amazon, the beard oil jelly delivers on promoting growth and softening facial hair.

"I have noticed significant improvements in the overall health and appearance of my beard since incorporating Bossman's Jelly Beard Oil into my grooming routine," one reviewer said. "It tames unruly hairs, reduces frizz and provides a natural sheen that makes my beard look well-groomed and vibrant. Additionally, the oil helps to prevent split ends and breakage, contributing to a fuller and healthier beard over time."

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13

Best Value Beard Oil

Cantu Hair & Beard Oil

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (67)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (68)Softens facial hair
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (69)Affordable
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (70)Strong smell

At $5.99, you really can't beat the price of this beard oil. Amazon reviewers love that it doesn't break the bank and still delivers results. "Does what a beard oil is supposed to do at a much better price. Love this stuff," one reviewer wrote.

14

Best Beard Oil With Multiple Scents

GRAVE BEFORE SHAVE Gentlemen's Blend Beard Oil

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (71)

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (72)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (73)Very hydrating
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (74)Comes in multiple scents
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (75)Thin oil

For anyone who loves a scented beard oil, this brand lets you take your pick. It comes in eight scents (Bourbon/Sandalwood, Caramel Mocha Coffee, Cigar/Vanilla, Natural, Pine with Cedar Wood, Tequila Limon and Tropical Ocean Breeze) and conditions both beard hair and skin. "Their stuff had good hold and every fragrance I’ve tried has been great," a Reddit user said.

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15

Best Growth Kit for Anyone With a Patchy Beard

MALE GOD Beard Growth Kit

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (76)

Now 33% Off

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (77)Over 10,000 Amazon reviews
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (78)No greasy residue
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (79)Use roller with caution

Everything you need to help your beard flourish to its full growth potential is right here. "[T]he beard growth speaks for itself. Would definitely recommend to any young men trying to get that full beard look!" one Amazon reviewer wrote.

This set includes two bottles of oil, a tin of beard balm, a double sided comb and a dermaroller. However, "if done improperly at home, microneedling has the potential to cause scratching or burning pain and irritation, redness and inflammation, marks, and even bleeding and scarring on skin," GH Beauty Director April Franzino has cautioned.

16

Best Beard Spray

Harry's Beard Conditioning Spray

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (80)

Now 29% Off

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (81)Can be used on-the-go
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (82)Won't drip or weigh down hair
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (83)Not as many reviews as other options

As an alternative to your typical shampoos, creams and oils, try out this conditioning spray, which can be applied easily and still smoothes and softens facial hair. This one is formulated with jojoba and grapeseed oils and fruit acids, which provide moisture and gently exfoliate. It also has a fresh citrus scent.

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17

Best Beard Comb

The Art of Shaving Beard Comb

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (84)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (85)Double sided
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (86)Gentle on hair
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (87)Teeth may break over time

A beard comb is great for detangling and straightening facial hair. It can also catch flyaways. Reviewers said that it is easy to keep clean and won't yank or rip out hairs. "This comb not only looks great but it glides through smoothly and effortlessly with the added weight," one reviewer noted. But, one thing to keep in mind is the wood may weaken over time, causing teeth to break.

18

Best Black-Owned Beard Serum

Scotch Porter Smoothing Beard Serum

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (88)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (89)Nourishing
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (90)Thicker consistency than oil
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (91)Some find it too thick

A serum is a next step up from an oil when it comes to consistency and moisture. It won't be super runny (creating a mess) and it will still smooth your beard and provide shine. One Amazon reviewer loves that the serum is "not greasy and smells excellent." They also note that it "does not leave oil markings on my shirts, especially white collared ones."

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19

Best Beard Shaping Tool

The Cut Buddy Shaping + Styling Tool

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (92)

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (93)Provides shaving guide
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (94)Affordable
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (95)May be too thick for close shaves

For the at-home barber, this cutting and shaping tool will be a game changer. They'll be able to follow the guides to create the perfect curve for their beard shape. "The product itself is amazing. I'm bad with trimming my beard and this just makes it easy and keeps everything straight and perfect. The pencil is really useful since after tracing the beard you can go ahead and start trimming without having to hold the cut buddy the whole time," an Amazon user said.

20

Best Luxury Beard Oil

Pre de Provence No.63 Men's Collection, Beard Oil

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (96)

Now 10% Off

Pros
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (97)Great scent
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (98)Nourishing and softening
Cons
  • This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (99)Pricey

This beard oil contains shea butter and vitamin E to nourish facial hair and is scented with citrus, cedarwood, plum, leather and tobacco, mimicking a cologne. "[It] left my beard feeling extremely soft all day after applying in the morning, and it smells really, really good," a Reddit user wrote.

This $12 Beard Balm Will Give You The Softest Facial Hair (100)

Cameron Jenkins

Staff Writer

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping, where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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