There are some very mixed opinions out there about this. If we were to share stories of bros using a blow dryer on their whiskers, there would be a confusing split between tales of success and disaster.
With such a divided body of opinion, it makes sense to err on the side of caution and provide you with quality info so you can decide for yourself.
The short and dirty answer is when in doubt, don’t. Heat applied incorrectly can severely damage your beard right down to the follicle.
Heat and Beards Don’t Mix Well
Sure, it’s tempting to pull out the blow dryer when you’re in a rush. It’s quick, simple, less aggressive than rubbing with a towel, perhaps even helpful for taming wild beard hair. I mean, how much damage could one blow drying session do, right?
Well, know your risks. Science says that the longer a beard stays wet to its roots, the more hair follicles absorb water and enlarge a tiny bit, causing pressure on the hairs. But hot air blasted at your beard overheats the water in the follicles, as well as in and around the hairs, causing all kinds of damage, such as:
- Weak and brittle hairs that break easily.
- Dried out skin.
- Dehydrated hair follicles.
- Itchy skin.
- Beard acne.
- Flaky, itchy, irritating beardruff.
- Discolored hairs.
- In extreme cases, even partially melted hairs that go haywire.
Watch Out for Misreported Science
A 2011 study out of Korea went into great detail examining “the ultra-structure, morphology, moisture content, and color of hair after repeated shampooing and drying with a hair dryer at a range of temperatures.” It concluded that it was less damaging to use a blow dryer on a cooler setting and at a distance. On the strength of that info, many bearding blogs and websites announced loudly that science said blow drying was better than air drying and everything was fine if you followed what the study did.
this study examined head hair and scalp skin, not beard hair and facial skin. There are big differences. Facial hair is more wiry and prone to becoming brittle, while scalp skin is more oily than dryer facial skin. That’s why you never use soaps or regular shampoos on your face and beard. Head hair is also a little robust because it’s growing phases last for years, while facial hair growing phases last weeks or months.
What’s the Takeaway?
If you absolutely must blow dry your beard, use the coolest setting and keep the dryer at least 6-8 inches away. But take this knowledge with a grain of salt.
Can’t I Blow Dry My Beard if I’m in a Hurry?
This is the most dangerous time to blow dry a beard. Rushing can result in big damage that can’t be reversed.
Fashion Limerence Approach
- Look after your beard’s health everyday.
- Wash your beard in a warm shower (not too hot) and only with a dedicated Beard Wash.
- Pat your beard dry with a towel. Don’t rub. Rubbing tugs on hairs and follicles, while tangling whiskers.
- As drying continues, stay in a room with comfortable air flow.
- Apply beard oil that includes organic oils in its ingredients.
- Use a wild boar bristle beard brush. No plastic or metal – they snag, tug and pull while doing nothing to stimulate or massage your skin and follicles.
- Brush a few times each day to keep dust, dirt and pollutants out of your beard.
What About an Unruly Beard?
Some bros tell us that their beards are especially thick, dense, and curly and simply won’t behave themselves even after regularly oiling, brushing, and applying beard balm. They’re at their wits’ end.
Really, there are three choices here. Two are either trim the beard to be less thick ,or blow dry. In such a situation, using the blow dryer can help tame hairs and the directions they want to grow. But just don’t use it every day.
Mustache Curling
If you have a handlebar mustache and want it to curl, sometimes you need a little extra help. For basic curling, balm and mustache wax will do the trick fine. But for bigger, cleaner, tighter curls, trying to hold them manually in place with wax takes a lot of time and patience. In such a situation, yeah, a little heat may be part of the equation. Just please be careful and go slow! Less is more!
If You Still Absolutely Must Blow Dry Your Beard
Bro, it’s your beard. If you still absolutely insist on blow drying it, we beg you to:
- Follow the numbered steps above. That includes pat drying with a towel and applying some beard oil.
- Get a quality dryer.
- Make sure the dryer has a nozzle attachment that can focus the stream of air into a very localized area. You really don’t want to expose your entire face to a hurricane.
- Use the coolest setting.
- Hold the dryer 6-9 inches from your face.
- Point the nozzle downwards.
- Brush downwards smoothly and gently with the air flow.
- Apply beard balm afterward to style and to replenish essential oils lost in the drying.
- Don’t blow dry every day!
Conclusion
While blow drying can seem like a quick fix, the risks often outweigh the rewards. If you have any doubts, it’s best to avoid it altogether. Prioritize regular grooming practices and nurturing your beard health that’s what will truly bring out its best and make you a true Fashion Limerence.
FAQs
Can I blow dry my beard if I’m in a rush?
While it may be tempting, blow drying your beard when you’re in a hurry can result in significant damage that can’t be reversed. Always prioritize proper care over speed.
What’s the best way to dry my beard without heat?
Pat your beard dry with a towel and avoid rubbing. Use a dedicated beard wash, apply beard oil, and brush with a wild boar bristle brush to maintain its health and appearance.
Is it safe to use a blow dryer on my beard occasionally?
If you must use a blow dryer, ensure you use the coolest setting and keep the dryer at least 6-9 inches away from your face. Use a nozzle attachment to focus the airflow and apply beard balm afterward.
How can I manage an unruly beard without heat?
Regular oiling, brushing, and using beard balm can help manage unruly beards. If these methods aren’t enough, consider trimming your beard or embracing its natural wildness while maintaining its health.
Are there alternatives to blow drying for styling my beard?
Yes, using beard balm and mustache wax can help style your beard without heat. For more defined curls in a handlebar mustache, take your time and use small amounts of wax to hold the shape.
What should I do if my beard gets damaged from blow drying?
If your beard suffers damage from blow drying, stop using heat immediately. Focus on nourishing your beard with quality beard oil, keeping it clean with a dedicated beard wash, and brushing gently to stimulate hair follicles and distribute natu