Beard care can be a lot of work, but the end result is worth it. The right beard will make you look more rugged, more mature, and more distinguished. Plus, there's no denying that it makes you look like a real man — not to mention that it's easier to grow than many people think. But growing out your facial hair is only half the battle; keeping it healthy and looking good is where things get tricky. Not sure where to start? Here are five tips I've learned over the years while growing my own beard.

Wash your beard

Wash your beard. You want to use a beard wash or shampoo, not regular body soap. A great way to wash your beard is by using a brush and combing it out so that the oil in the shampoo or wash can be absorbed evenly throughout all of the hair while it's still damp. After you've washed and dried your beard, comb it again and then apply some beard oil on top of it to moisturize.

Get a good trimmer

You should use a trimmer to make sure your beard is even and clean. You can get a good trimmer at any drugstore or grocery store, but they're not all created equally.

• Avoid cheap trimmers that don't last long, because they'll just frustrate you and make your beard look bad.

• Look for one with adjustable blades so you can customize the length of the trimming blade depending on what kind of look you want. You might want to trim down some hairs here and there, or maybe take off some length for a fuller beard style; whatever it may be, having this option will help make sure you stay happy with how your facial hair looks every time!

• Make sure the battery lasts long enough on one charge (at least 60 minutes) so that's not an issue when using it consistently.

Use beard oil, but don't overdo it.

Beard oil is a must for anyone with facial hair. It softens your whiskers and smells good, which helps you look sharp and feel confident. But there's a fine line between helping your beard grow in healthy and seeing it become an unmanageable mess of knots and split ends. Follow these steps to keep your beard looking its best:

• Use just a few drops of oil on damp skin after washing your face each morning—you don't need much to moisturize the skin underneath your beard!

• Apply directly onto the hairs themselves (not the skin), starting at the base of every strand if possible.

• Rub gently into each hair so that any excess gets absorbed into them instead of staying wet on top of them all day long—this can lead to breakouts along the jawline where oils tend not to be absorbed. If possible, use a beard oil that contains ingredients like jojoba oil to help nourish and soften your facial hair. Keep applying throughout the day as needed—it's normal for your beard to get dry in the winter months when you're indoors more often and using heaters.

Be patient.

The best way to make sure your beard looks its best is to grow it for as long as possible. Some men will have a full-grown beard in only two months, while others may need six months or more. It's all about patience—for your face and for yourself! If you're having trouble growing a full beard on your own, consider using some of these products that can help.

Beard oil - Used to "feed" the skin with hydrating oils

Beard soap/shampoo - Specifically formulated to clean the pores on your face

Beard Balm - Absorbs into the beard hair to help it grow longer, stronger and be less brittle. Also helps to eliminate split ends.

Try beard balm if you have a dry or unruly beard

If you're a man who struggles to keep control of your beard, or if you have a dry and unruly beard, then it's time to get some beard balm. Beard balm is basically conditioner for your hair—it helps keep it soft and manageable. It can also help prevent dandruff in the same way that head-and-shoulders shampoo does for hair on your head (though beards don't get lice). The best part is that if you use it regularly, beard balm will help with the dreaded itchiness of growing out your facial hair as well!

More tips for a healthy beard and face

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser once or twice a day. This is important for keeping the skin underneath the beard clean and healthy, but it's also good for you because it keeps oil from building up on your face.

• Use a beard trimmer to keep it looking neat and tidy, especially if you can't grow much facial hair yet. If you don't have one already, there are plenty of affordable ones to choose from online or at your local drugstore.

• Use beard oil or balm to moisturize your skin—this is especially important if you're growing out thicker facial hair because it will help prevent dryness and itching! Try using these products every morning.

Conclusion

Now that you’re all set with our best tips for growing a beard, go forth and make the most out of your facial hair! We know it's not easy, but don't let that stop you from trying. With some patience and dedication, anyone can grow a beard—even if they're still in high school or college.