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How to Tame a Wild Beard - Pro Grooming Hacks That Work

Author: Faiysal Kothiwala

Published at: Dec 09, 2024

If you have a beard, then chances are you’ve probably had some mornings when you’ve woken up looking like an extra from The Lion King. 

Truth is, every bearded man at some point or another will have to face the challenges of trying to tame a wild beard.

Thankfully, any beard problem can be fixed and we’re here to help you whip your whiskers back into shape. There are a few easy pointers to follow that will help gain back control against any unruly and wild beard

Keep reading to find out more on how to tame an unruly beard.

Master Your Mane: 6 Game-Changing Tips to Tame Your Beard

To tame unruly beard hair, wash and condition regularly, use beard oil for softness, brush daily, trim for shape, and style with a quality balm or straightener. Let’s explain everything step by step:

1. Regularly Trim Your Beard With Scissors

If you’re wondering how to make a beard less bushy, trimming is a key grooming step that many hesitate to take. After spending months growing it out, the idea of cutting it down can feel counterproductive. 

But the truth is, purposeful trimming combined with the right tools makes all the difference. A beard straightener helps smooth out bulk and tame unruly hairs, making your beard look neater without losing its fullness. Pair it with strategic trimming, and you’ll have a well-groomed, healthy beard that looks intentional - not overgrown.

Here’s why a little trim goes a long way:

  • Prevents split ends – Keeping stray and damaged hairs in check ensures a smoother, neater look.

  • Maintains shape and style – A well-trimmed beard looks intentional rather than unkempt.

  • Encourages healthier growth – Trimming helps eliminate weak strands, allowing stronger hair to thrive.

You can trim at home with a quality pair of scissors and a comb or visit a barber for professional shaping, especially if your sideburns and length start getting out of control.

2. Wash Your Beard Daily 

Keep your beard clean and healthy by using a product that’s specifically formulated for facial hair. You can use a beard shampoo every other day, or even daily if your beard and environment demand it.

Washing your beard and using a conditioner after you shower will help your other care products absorb and will prevent harmful particles from lingering on your skin and causing problems like irritation and inflammation.

3. Use a Straightener to Straighten Your Beard

Wild beards are notoriously hard to shape and style. Beard curling and scruffy hair are the stuff of nightmares when you’re trying to put yourself into a presentable form in the mornings. A quick and easy fix to this problem is to find the best beard straighteners for a smooth, well-groomed look.

4. Apply Conditioners or Oils Twice Daily to Soften Beard

A good beard care routine is the key to taming unruly hair. Keep your beard soft, hydrated, and nourished by applying beard oil and conditioners daily.

Morning Routine:

  • Apply lighter beard oil to keep your beard fresh and soft throughout the day.

  • Use a comb or brush to distribute the oil evenly and detangle any knots.

Evening Routine:

  • Opt for a nourishing beard oil to restore moisture overnight.

  • Use a beard comb to detangle and prevent breakage.

  • If your beard is feeling extra dry, consider a leave-in conditioner for deep hydration.

Pro Tip: Warm a few drops of beard oil between your palms before applying—it helps with even distribution and better absorption.

5. Train Your Wild Beard With Comb or Brush

One way to deal with a wild and bushy beard is to comb through any troublesome areas with a good-quality comb or brush. Brushing your beard on a daily basis can help train your hair to grow in a specific direction and will help your beard keep its proper shape for longer.

You can use tools that are made from both natural and synthetic materials, but the best options are those that help reduce frizziness and allow for fast and efficient detangling.

6. Style Your Beard With a Balm

Beard balms are the perfect styling product for wild beard hair. Follow these simple steps to keep your beard looking sharp:

  • Scoop a small amount of balm with your fingertip.

  • Warm it up by rubbing it between your palms.

  • Distribute evenly throughout your beard, making sure to reach the roots.

  • Shape and style using your fingers or a comb for a clean, controlled look..

Pro tip: You can try TBS Warrior’s beard balm for an all-natural, non-greasy finish. Keep your beard soft, hydrated, and protected throughout the day, and forget about the struggle of unruly hairs and untamable beards.

3 Simple Steps to Tame Your Beard Daily

A wild beard doesn’t mean you have to fight it - you just need the right routine. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beard that’s sharp, smooth, and completely under control.

Step 1: Wash & Hydrate (Start with a Fresh Canvas)

A messy beard is often just a dirty, dry beard. Use a wash to cleanse without stripping natural oils, then follow up with a conditioner or oil to keep it soft and manageable.
How often? Wash daily or every other day, depending on your beard type.

Step 2: Brush & Train (Tame the Wildness!)

Your beard hairs grow in all directions - but you can train them to fall in line. A brush or comb smooths out tangles, distributes oils, and guides your beard into shape.
Best time to do it? Right after applying oil or balm for maximum control.

Step 3: Shape & Style (Keep It Looking Intentional)

A little trimming goes a long way. Snip stray hairs with scissors, use a straightener to reduce bulk, and finish with balm or wax to hold everything in place.
Pro tip: Use a low heat setting when straightening to avoid damage.

Beard Battles: 4 of The Most Common Struggles of an Unruly Mane

The first sign of unruliness will be a change in your beard’s texture and look. Your facial hair might start to look unkempt and you’ll have a harder time styling and conditioning your beard. You may also notice other things like dandruff, split ends, beard curling, and a feeling of itchiness and discomfort in your bearded area.

1. Beard Dandruff

Just like scalp dandruff, beardruff is unpleasant to deal with. It doesn’t look good and it can make some of us feel self-conscious. Beard dandruff is often caused by dry skin that starts to flake off from the surface of your face, and it can make a significant difference in your beard’s appearance.

2. Coarse and Scruffy Hair

If your hair isn’t properly moisturized, it might start to change in texture. Dry hair has a tendency to become rigid and more curly. This will make the hair fibers feel coarse and will give you headaches when trying to style.

3. Beard Split Ends

If your beard develops split ends, it’s a clear sign that you have to take immediate action. The end of the hair fiber is literally split into two or more parts, which can make your beard look unruly and unkempt. 

When it comes to identifying and treating split ends, the only true fix is a good pair of scissors. However, you can prevent them with a solid beard care routine.

4. Itchy Beard 

A lack of moisture in your skin and beard can also lead to irritation, redness, and itchiness. Not only is itchiness unpleasant, but running your hands through your beard and scratching your face to alleviate the itchiness can bring other bacteria and particles onto your skin. This can lead to more irritation and even breakouts, especially at the top of the neck area or at the edges of your beard.

Your Beard, Your Rules – Keep It Sharp & Strong

Knowing how to tame a beard is all about consistency and the right grooming routine. From taming beard hair with regular trims and conditioning to learning how to tame facial hair using the right tools, keeping your beard in top shape doesn’t have to be a challenge. 

Stick to these expert tips from The Beard Struggle, and you’ll have a beard that’s always sharp, healthy, and effortlessly tamed!

FAQs

What can I use to tame my beard?

To tame wild beard hairs, use a combination of oil and balm to soften and control your beard. A boar bristle brush helps distribute natural oils, while a beard comb keeps everything neat. Regular trimming also helps maintain a well-groomed look.

How to train a beard?

Training your beard involves consistent grooming habits. Brush or comb your beard daily in the desired direction, apply balm for hold, and trim stray hairs to maintain shape. Over time, these steps will help your beard grow in a more controlled and uniform manner.

Why does my beard always look scraggly?

A scraggly beard is often caused by dryness, uneven growth, or lack of grooming. Regular use of oil and balm can help keep it hydrated and manageable. Trimming split ends and brushing daily also improves the overall appearance.

What to use to keep my beard in place?

To keep your beard in place, use a combination of balm or wax for hold and a boar bristle brush for styling. A light application of hairspray can also help with stubborn flyaways.

Can I use a hair straightener on my beard?

Yes, you can use a hair straightener on your beard, but be cautious. Use a low heat setting and always apply a heat protectant to prevent damage. Alternatively, a heated beard brush is a safer option for styling.

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Comments

I recently purchased the Carbon X heated beard straightener, do you apply beard balm before or after using the heated brush?

- Garreth McGuinnessJan 14, 2025

Reply to: @Garreth McGuinness

Please use the balm after the straightening! That way you lock in the styling while also hydrating the beard!

- TBS TeamFeb 03, 2025