Beard Balm Buying Guide
If you want a healthy, stylish beard, a quality beard balm is non-negotiable. In the UK market, balms combine conditioning oils, natural butters, and light hold to tame unruly hairs while nourishing the skin beneath.
This article provides a research-backed overview of the best beard balms available in 2025.
All our product recommendations are based on our independent research which we conduct online by reading the many reviews we find at online websites. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. You can read our affiliates page to find out more and also read about how we write our reviews.
Why Beard Balm Matters
- Moisturises & softens: Prevents dryness, itchiness, and beard dandruff.
- Shapes & styles: Adds light hold for a polished look.
- Promotes growth health: Nourishes follicles with natural oils.
- Protects skin: Reduces irritation and hydrates beneath the beard.
Buying Considerations
- Ingredients: Look for shea butter, beeswax, argan, jojoba, or avocado oils.
- Scent: Choose subtle masculine fragrances (sandalwood, oud, citrus) or unscented options.
- Texture: Balms should melt easily in the hand and apply smoothly.
- Size & value: Most UK balms come in 50–75g tins, priced £10–£20.
Using a balm is part of the pH balance of the overall grooming process.
Best Beard Balms in the UK
Rank | Product Name | Key Ingredients | Price | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | ZOUSZ Black Oud Premium Beard Balm | Avocado, argan, macadamia oils | £19–£22 | Luxurious scent, premium conditioning | Style conscious professionals |
#2 | Bulldog Skincare Original Beard Balm (75ml) | Shea butter, cocoa butter | £17–£19 | UK heritage brand, vegan-friendly | Everyday grooming |
#3 | Viking Revolution Beard Balm (Clary Sage) | Argan & jojoba oils | £16–£19 | Strong conditioning, subtle herbal scent | Thick/coarse beards |
#4 | Reuzel Beard Balm (35g) | Shea butter, argan oil | £16–£19 | Light hold, woody fragrance | Travel friendly |
#5 | Woodsleep Men’s Beard Balm (50g) | Beeswax, vanilla extract | £11–£13 | Gentle formula, soft fragrance | Sensitive skin |
1. ZOUSZ Black Oud Premium Beard Balm
- Avocado Oil: Deeply penetrates coarse hair, softening and reducing brittleness.
- Argan Oil: Adds shine, strengthens follicles, and prevents split ends.
- Macadamia Oil: Lightweight hydration, reduces frizz without heaviness.
- Beeswax: Provides light hold, helping shape the beard.
- Effect: Luxurious conditioning with a refined oud fragrance — ideal for professionals who want both style and nourishment.
2. Bulldog Skincare Original Beard Balm
- Shea Butter: Rich in vitamins A & E, locks in moisture, soothes irritation.
- Cocoa Butter: Creates a protective barrier against environmental stressors, adds smoothness.
- Essential Oils (blend): Subtle fragrance, skin-friendly hydration.
- Effect: Vegan-friendly, everyday balm that balances conditioning with affordability which is perfect for sensitive skin and daily use.
3. Viking Revolution Beard Balm
- Argan Oil: Strengthens and nourishes hair shafts, reduces breakage.
- Jojoba Oil: Mimics natural sebum, prevents dryness and beard dandruff.
- Shea Butter: Softens thick, coarse beards, adds manageability.
- Beeswax: Provides structure and light styling hold.
- Effect: Strong conditioning power, especially suited for men with fuller or unruly beards.
4. Reuzel Beard Balm
- Shea Butter: Deep moisturiser, reduces itchiness and irritation.
- Argan Oil: Adds shine and elasticity to beard hairs.
- Beeswax: Offers light hold for shaping moustache and beard edges.
- Effect: Compact, travel-friendly balm with a woody scent — balances nourishment with portability.
5. Woodsleep Men’s Beard Balm
- Beeswax: Provides natural hold and seals in moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: Gentle fragrance, soothing properties for sensitive skin.
- Carrier Oils (blend): Hydration and softness without heaviness.
- Effect: Affordable, gentle balm with a soft vanilla scent — ideal for beginners or those with delicate skin.
Beard Balm Buyer's Guide
We always like to write a full buyer's guide, which we believe is especially helpful for any new buyer. Beard balms can get complex so we have tried to make sense of the features below.
What Butters are Used in Beard Balms?
Butters provide the balm’s texture and conditioning power.
- Shea Butter: A staple in UK beard balms like Bulldog Skincare and Reuzel. It locks in moisture, soothes irritation, and adds softness.
- Cocoa Butter: Found in Bulldog Skincare, it creates a protective barrier against environmental stressors while adding a subtle sheen.
- Beeswax: Common in Woodsleep Men’s Balm. Provides light hold, helping shape the beard while sealing in moisture.
What Carrier Oils Are Used in Beard Balms?
Carrier oils form the foundation of most beard balms. They deliver hydration, nutrients, and shine.
- Argan Oil: Rich in vitamin E and fatty acids. It strengthens hair shafts, reduces breakage, and adds natural gloss. Found in ZOUSZ Black Oud and Viking Revolution.
- Jojoba Oil: Closely mimics natural sebum, making it excellent for balancing skin hydration. Helps prevent beard dandruff. Present in Viking Revolution.
- Avocado Oil: Packed with oleic acid, it penetrates deeply to soften coarse beards. Featured in ZOUSZ Black Oud.
- Macadamia Oil: Lightweight yet nourishing, ideal for reducing frizz without greasiness. Also in ZOUSZ.
What Scents Are Used in Beard Balms?
Different scents are used by different manufacturers. These include:
- Sandalwood
- Cedar wood
- Bergamot
- Ginger
- Ylang
- Clove
- Oak
- Benzoin
- Vanilla
The best beard balm in the UK balances conditioning, styling, and fragrance. Whether you want a premium oud-scented balm or a simple everyday moisturiser, the UK market offers excellent options across all budgets. Investing in the right balm ensures your beard looks sharp, feels soft, and stays healthy year-round.