Because Dandruff, Itchy Skin, and Aging is Real
Growing a beard comes with it’s own set of special skin problems—it’s not a low-maintenance or easy process. Less or infrequent shaving leads to a cascade of problems that begin with ingrown hairs (i.e. pseudofolliculitis barbae). Tweezing or shaving with a multi-edge razor can trap the hair under the skin, resulting in inflammation that surfaces as a pustule, cyst, or irritating red bumps.
Dry skin, dandruff, and flaking are common issues with a beard. Thick, coarse hair can be difficult to clean and moisturize, but with the right combination of skin care products all of these woes can be prevented.
1. Get a good cleanser.
A gel-based cleanser with enzymes or hydroxy acids should be used over the entire face. Using something like ARC Skin Care Fruitzyme Cleanser or Clarifying Cleanser helps prevent cellular buildup or facial dandruff that occurs with a beard, and is vital at keeping the skin under the beard healthy and clean. Beards that have excess flaking or redness of the skin can lather-up their beard with a targeted dandruff shampoo.
2. Start exfoliating.
Skip the scrub and head straight to a hydroxy acid exfoliant—glycolic or salicylic work best for men’s skin—light treatments like ARC Skin Care Cranberry Peel or Neostrata Lotion Plus assist with cell turnover and remove impurities. They also play a key role in preventing ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
3. Hydrate your skin.
Opt for light hydration and moisture options based on your skin type. For lightweight and fast-penetrating moisture with healing and anti-aging benefits, try ARC Ultra Hemp Lotion. Skin types that easily develop inflammation and acne with ingrown hairs should benefit from the antimicrobial benefits of tea tree in ARC Clarifying Lotion. Using a lotion daily contributes to a healthy look and feel while preventing itching and flaking.
4. Consider your tools.
Ideally, you should replace your razor blade after 2-3 uses and shave with the direction of hair growth. Skin that’s prone to ingrown hair, razor bumps, or acne should consider trimming or a single-use blade for shaving. These options will help prevent the hair from getting trapped under the skin where it causes irritation and inflammation.