It seems that since Daniel Day-Lewis brought Lincoln to the big screen, full beards are more popular than ever (Think of Ben Affleck, Jon Hamm, Ashton Kutcher, Ryan Reynolds, Jake Gyllenhaal.) If you have or are thinking of growing facial fur, good grooming of the hair is important to benefit the skin beneath it. Your facial care routine will keep your beard shiny and healthy; your skin supple and flake-free.
1. WASH your beard with a mild shampoo two to three times per week. Use dandruff shampoo if you notice snowfall on your necktie. Look for alcohol free products that contain tar, salicylic acid, sulfur, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione. You may want to research products formulated specifically for beards but it isn’t necessary.
2. RINSE very well and towel DRY your beard by patting, not rubbing. Blow dry using the cool setting. Avoid warm or hot air that might cause dryness or skin irritation.
3. CONDITION the hair and your skin will benefit. Use the same alcohol free hair conditioner you use on your head.
4. Add a room humidifier to moisturize dry skin and hair.
To combat ingrown hairs or bumps in the first phase of the growing in process, dampen face and use a mild facial scrub (we like Vivite Exfoliating Facial Cleanser) in small circular motions. If a stubborn ingrown hair creeps in, it can be directly confronted with laser hair removal to treat that individual spot.
In any weather but especially in the colder months, avoid long, hot showers. Hot water and excessive steam strip the natural oils from the skin we need to maintain balance. Your dermatology experts: Dr. Michael Eidelman; Dr. Lian Mack and Dominic Moccia, RPA-C, at Chelsea Skin & Laser recommend a 3 minute routine with mild soap or body wash. Wash the hair and beard 2-3 times per week. If you are experiencing itching, flaking or minor redness on your head or under your beard wash and condition those areas first and allow your conditioner to sit while you cleanse the rest of your body.
Chelsea Skin & Laser (212-675-0549) can help with your stubborn dandruff, skin irritations, skin and hair care routines. We are here for you.
Dr. Michael Eidelman
Chelsea Skin & Laser
212-675-0549
245 West 19th St
NY, NY 10011