15 Best Beard Balms to Make Your Stubble Smooth And Soft

Written by Alvira Dsouza, Hair Expert
Updated on Mar 21, 2024
Best Beard Balms
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Over the past few years, super sleek and well-groomed facial fuzz has become a trend among beauty and fashion fads. Beard styles like stubble beards to classic and short-boxed facial hair, to name a few, never go out of trend and boast masculinity. Since beards are becoming a new style statement, we can see a complete line of grooming products, from beard growth oils to balms and more. The best beard balms are one of the popular products getting into the limelight these days. 

Beard balms are new-age man mane taming formulas that bless you with decent masculine fuzz without heading to a salon every week for professional results. Not just that, they moisturize and hydrate skin and hair to remove dullness, itching, and tangles for better manageability. Some special formulations also tame frizz and flyaways while boosting volume and shine. 

Based on our first-hand experience and product testing, we have enlisted the best men's beard balms that improve thickness and overall stubble appearance to keep you compliment-ready. Keep reading to get your best formula.

What Is a Beard Balm?

A beard balm is an essential grooming formula in any men's toolkit. It's a conditioning cream-like product that maintains the look of your beard or mustache and improves skin health.

Beard balms are generally heavier than beard oils and gels and can be used by any man, especially those with bushy, thick, and dry beard hair. They are infused with powerful key components that not only help in styling but nourish and moisturize hair and skin simultaneously for an optimum brightening look. Besides doing their primary job, some special blends also volumize and provide hold for the most stunning beard that looks like Walter White of Breaking Bad or our beloved Thor.

15 Best Beard Balms

Managing thick and coarse hair becomes easy with Honest Amish Beard Balm. This intense conditioning agent softens coarse and rogue hair and adds a quick boost of moisture. Packed with argan oil, avocado, almond, pumpkin seed, and apricot kernel oil, the hair-strengthening formula eliminates itching and beardruff. Moreover, it hydrates dry hair and manages split ends for a smooth look. Also, it comes in a sheer, cool, and decorative tin that looks attractive and embraces the masculine spirit.

Pros
  • Natural ingredients
  • Eye-catching container
  • Conditioning formula
  • Smooth consistency
  • Nourishes newly grown hair
  • Prevents beard itch
Cons
  • Some may find it gritty
  • Most Pleasant Scent

    Viking Revolution Beard Balm

    Viking Revolution Beard Balm
  • Here comes your home beard styler. This Viking Revolution men's beard balm lets you style and create your favorite looks. It's specially formulated for straight hair and smoothens it while providing a perfect finish. You'd be surprised to know that this creamy elixir can straighten even the toughest and unruly beard hair. Enriched with mango butter, argan oil, beeswax, and jojoba oil, the ultimate straightening concoction goes on seamlessly while nourishing the skin with essential nutrients.

    Pros
    • Prevents flaking
    • Citrus scent
    • Non-greasy
    • Non-irritating
    • Strengthens mustache
    Cons
    • The hold doesn’t last long
  • Best for Everyday Use

    King C. Gillette Soft Beard Balm

    King C. Gillette Soft Beard Balm
  • For anything hydrating, the King C. Gillette Soft Beard Balm always comes in handy. This beard balm for men smoothes and detangles hair no matter how tough and coiled the knots are. You can use it as a deep conditioning mask or a leave-in conditioner that hydrates dry and dull hair without weighing it down. Unlike conventional formulas, this one is easy to spread and feels lightweight on every application. Upon testing this product, our testers found that it smells heavenly, thanks to some special ingredients, such as bergamot, geranium, and cedarwood. 

    Pros
    • Daily use balm
    • Light texture
    • Easy to apply
    • Buttery consistency
    • Can be used as a wash-off mask
    Cons
    • Slightly strong scent for some

    Quick Tip:

    To use this product as a deep-conditioning mask, take a small amount of balm on your palm and apply it to your clean, wet beard in circular motions. Rinse it off after three minutes.

  • Most Versatile

    Striking Viking Beard Balm Vanilla

    Striking Viking Beard Balm Vanilla
  • Multipurpose formulas like Striking Viking Beard Balm have become a bathroom cabinet staple. This vanilla-scented formula suits all hair types irrespective of length. So whether you have a long, medium, or short beard, you can apply it with ease. Made with high-quality ingredients such as tea tree extracts, argan oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil, the strong-hold beard balm offers ultimate control and facilitates effortless styling. Say goodbye to itch and dandruff by applying a small amount that moisturizes beard roots to minimize dryness and flakes.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Moisturizing
    • Volumizes hair
    • Protects face and beard
    • Works on all skin types
    Cons
    • Some might find it dry and hard
  • Best Budget-friendly Pick

    Billy Jealousy Gnarly Sheen Beard Balm

    Billy Jealousy Gnarly Sheen Beard Balm
  • Improve your beard strength and tame frizz with this remarkable beard balm from Billy Jealousy. Fortified with shea butter, coconut, and sunflower oils, the formula works effectively to penetrate deep into the skin to provide nourishment to the beard. It gives a perfect matte finish and provides a firm hold for styling. Plus, its soothing scent, comprising of lavender, tropical fruit, and oak moss, makes the beard smell oh-so-good. What's more attractive about this product is that it comes in a rust-resistant tin container that you can carry everywhere you go. 

    Pros
    • Prevents itching
    • Improves beard elasticity
    • Pleasant woodsy fragrance
    • Moisturizing properties
    • Doesn't feel greasy
    Cons
    • Overpriced
  • Best Suited for All Skin Types

    Cremo Astonishingly Superior Beard Balm

    Cremo Astonishingly Superior Beard Balm
  • Every man deserves a superiorly styled and stunning beard that celebrates masculinity. Here's when the cremo beard balm comes into the picture. The nourishing cum shining blend infused with shea butter, beeswax, and essential oils shapes, styles, and tames long beards. Approved by well-renowned barbers, the balm keeps hair in place and lays down unruly beards. Also, it keeps the beard neat without straying and eliminates itch. Just dab a small amount, and it will lock in moisture for dewy and compliment-ready looks for hours.

    Pros
    • Woodsy scent
    • For all beard types
    • Relieves itch
    • Styles and shapes
    • Suits full beards
    Cons
    • Might leave a residue behind
  • Best Hold Balm

    Grave Before Shave Beard Balm

    Grave Before Shave Beard Balm
  • Grave Before Shave balm is meant to get rid of that nasty frizz that ruins your charm. The cedarwood and leather-scented balm smells subtle yet fresh and invigorates your senses. The added high-quality oils and butter tame the beard and deeply condition the mane to eliminate dryness and dullness. This soft beard balm comes with protective benefits. It forms a defending layer around each strand that guards it against everyday wear and tear while preventing horrible itchy sensations.

    Pros
    • Fresh masculine scent
    • Frizz control benefits
    • Attractive packaging
    • Offers decent hold
    • Offers conditioning benefits
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
  • Best Moisturizing Formula

    Bossman Relaxing Beard Balm

    Bossman Relaxing Beard Balm
  • A macho beard will never let you go unnoticed. The good news is that you can have that dream look with this Bossman Relaxing Beard Balm. The infused lush botanicals, including mango and shea butter, help retain moisture and hydrate hair follicles for naturally healthy beard growth. This Bossman's styling beard balm makes hair more manageable and soft than previous. Based on our observation of the product, it feels silky to the touch and runs smoothly like melted cream and tame rogue flyaways.

    Pros
    • Revives dull hair
    • Silky texture
    • Clean ingredients
    • Not animal tested
    • Eliminates scratchy beard
    • Makes beard healthy
    Cons
    • Slightly less quantity
  • Best Cruelty-free Formula

    Scotch Porter Conditioning Beard Balm

    Scotch Porter Conditioning Beard Balm
  • Available in a cream formula, this best beard balm for growth is a holy grail for dry and coarse hair. The active ingredients, such as biotin, nettle leaf, and white willow bark, make it a perfect beard styler for everyday use. With consistent application, this everyday beard balm removes frizz and dullness and enhances shine. Furthermore, it acts as a leave-in conditioner that effectively hydrates, conditions, and moisturizes hair and skin. The masculine fragrance has notes of vanilla, amber, musk, etc., that let your beard smell sensual and fresh. 

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Paraben-free
    • Simple to use
    • Non-toxic
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Packaging could be better
  • Best Travel-friendly

    Duke Cannon Big Bourbon Beard Balm

    Duke Cannon Big Bourbon Beard Balm
  • Let's face it — properly maintained beards can elevate your look, while bushy and stubble whiskers do the reverse. A good beard balm like Big Bourbon softens, conditions, and protects the beard and the skin underneath. It's a perfect solution for uncivilized thick beards that transform disheveled hair into a gentleman's well-styled facial mane. Before you speak anything, your champion beard will be enough to win hearts. Based on our observations, the formula might melt in the heat but becomes intact and normal under cool temperatures. 

    Pros
    • Made with premium ingredients
    • Moisturizing properties
    • Travel-size case
    • A little goes long
    Cons
    • Some may not like its fragrance
  • American Crew Beard Balm

     American Crew Beard Balm
  • Get a neat and clean beard with this American Crew Beard Balm and flaunt it everywhere fearlessly. Now no more hiding, please!! This beard product features conditioning and styling benefits. Enriched with crambe Abyssinica seed oil, shea butter, and sweet almond oil, the conditioner cum styler turns rough and dry beard into soft, cloud-like textured hair. The new age blend is here to give you an irresistibly smooth and manly beard that boasts manhood. 

    Pros
    • Budget-friendly
    • Slathers evenly
    • Conditions the beard
    • Offers great control
    • Makes beard soft
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell for a few folks
  • Mountaineer Brand Heavy Duty Beard Balm

    Mountaineer Brand Heavy Duty Beard Balm
  • Founded by a beard enthusiast and grooming freak, the Mountaineer Brand caters to most men's self-care and grooming issues. The heavy-duty luxury beard balm is an all-natural formula that soothes dry and itchy skin and moisturizes unruly hair. Formulated with essential oils and plant-based ingredients, such as cedarwood, fir needle, cocoa butter, etc., the nourishing fusion pampers sensitive skin and detangles the most stubborn and wiry beards. Our experts advise brushing on the required quantity and cherishing the full silky texture and additional control with a voluminous hold.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • A natural blend of ingredients
    • Long-lasting
    • Tames flyaways
    • Repairs damaged hair
    Cons
    • Little thick consistency
  • The Art of Shaving Stubble Balm

    The Art of Shaving Stubble Balm
  • The Art of Shaving has come up with a revolutionary product that works as a quick fixer for your beard woes. This best beard balm for short beards absorbs deeply into the skin and hair layers for a supple and glowing look. Unlike regular products that feel greasy and sticky, the Stubble Balm has a super-smooth and silky texture that lets you spread it easily on the targeted area. It retains moisture and maintains the skin's natural water balance for hydrated and sleek beards. 

    Pros
    • Hydrating formula
    • Nourishes dry skin
    • Sandalwood scent
    • User-friendly bottle design
    • Best for light to heavy stubble
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Burt's Bees Conditioning Beard Balm

    Burt's Bees Conditioning Beard Balm
  • There are plenty of reasons to love this Burt's Bees healthy beard balm. The beard conditioner contains ingredients sourced from nature that are rich in nutrients. These promote healthy hair growth and calm dry skin. This conditioning balm removes itch without making you feel like you are in the Sahara desert. Mr. Burt knows beards, and so does the formula which provides the ultimate care to offer a shiny and healthy-looking beard. This can be the best for your father, husband, or boyfriend on any occasion.

    Pros
    • Recyclable packaging
    • Cruelty-free
    • Smoothening balm
    • Manages big bushy beards
    • Nourishes the beard
    • Offers a shiny finish
    • Easy to use
    Cons
    • None
  • SheaMoisture Maracuja Oil & Shea Butter Beard Balm

    SheaMoisture Maracuja Oil & Shea Butter Beard Balm
  • SheaMoisture is built to revive dull and lifeless beard hair of any length. A single application defines, smoothes, and detangles the roughest beards for shinier and well-groomed beard looks. The shea butter and maracuja oil balm boosts softness and improves texture that feels similar to soft cotton-like clouds. Think of a versatile, high-quality beard balm with both styling and conditioning properties that you can't resist adding to your beard kit. 

    Pros
    • Easy to spread
    • Mild scent
    • Works on beards of all types
    • Moisturizing effects
    • Smells nice
    Cons
    • None

    We hope our top recommendations for the best beard balms will enhance your grooming experience. Don't forget to check out our user guide below which will assist you in finding the most suitable option.

    How to Choose the Right Beard Balm?

    Buying a beard balm that matches your style, needs, and other specifics is worth adding to your grooming kit. Here are some factors you can look for when purchasing the best beard balm for your daily grooming routine. 

    Ingredients 

    The primary rule for shopping is to check the ingredient list. Avoid formulas loaded with synthetic and chemical ingredients. The reason is that these can dry the natural moisture and water content while leaving the beard bushy and scraggly. It's better to go natural and pick organic beard balms that carry the goodness of earthy and genuine ingredients. 

    Sensitivity And Skin Type

    Those with sensitive and allergy-prone skin must stay away from nasty ingredients that trigger irritation and other related symptoms. In such cases, choosing hypoallergenic options is the best thing you can do. Folks having oily skin may try non-comedogenic and anti-acne formulas that keep pore clogging at bay while hydrating and moisturizing blends are great for dry skin. 

    Style 

    Consider your current beard style and desired looks. Since these balms are available for various beard types and lengths, knowing your expectations may help you discover the right formulation. For instance, thick and strong balms work well on long and unruly beards, whereas lighter and subtle options align perfectly with short and neat manes. 

    As believed, beard balms are effective and provide the desired results when applied correctly. So, here's how you can apply them.

    How to Apply a Beard Balm Rightly?

    Follow the mentioned steps for hassle-free beard balm application. 

    1. Clean your beard with a beard wash or regular shampoo that is gentle and non-irritating. 
    2. Follow with towel drying. It does not have to be dried completely. It can still be slightly wet. However, it shouldn't be dripping droplets. 
    3. Take the required amount of your favorite beard balm, depending on the mane length. Place it on your palms and rub them together to emulsify the concoction. 
    4. Once emulsified, apply the balm on your facial hair from top to bottom without leaving a single strand using your fingers.
    5. Pick a beard brush and glide it smoothly to style your hair into your dream looks. 

    Conclusion

    Men's grooming sessions are incomplete without the best beard balms. After all, these mighty formulas keep your facial stubble happy and healthy throughout the day. It's the right time to shift to an advanced beard concoction when you find your beard dry and difficult to comb. They add the needed moisture and prevent water loss to improve skin and hair health. The above-mentioned products are specially crafted to eliminate your beard management woes and make fuzz well-maintained for a gentlemen's look. 

    While shopping for a beard balm, keep a few points in your intellect, such as ingredients, sensitivity, style, and skin type, to avoid confusion and reach the aptest product that suits your taste and tick marks all checkboxes. According to our experts, Honest Amish Beard Balm is the best overall, whereas King C. Gillette Soft Beard Balm is the best pick for those who want a beard balm for daily use.

    FAQ's

    When should one apply a beard balm?
    For better results, you may try using a gentle beard balm on an everyday basis. Apply it once or twice a day, based on your feasibility, maybe after a morning shower or evening bath.
    How long does a beard balm last?
    Well, it depends on some factors like your beard length, formula quantity, etc. Typically, an average container may last between 3 to 4 weeks.
    Which is better: beard oil or beard balm?
    Beard oils are slightly less dense than balms and particularly work within the roots. However, these might feel greasy or sticky sometimes. As an alternative, balms come in handy and provide similar rewards when used consistently.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Alvira, our haircare expert, took the help of her friends to bring forth this list of the best beard balms. After researching the best-selling products, she selected a few and asked her friends to test them, and based on the results as well as the formulation of these products, she selected the top 15 beard balms presented here. All these beard balms help tame frizzy beards and elevate hair shine.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Alvira Dsouza
    Hair Expert

    With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More