Around a decade ago, when beards became ‘A Thing’ again, the most stubborn of style critics shrugged off men’s facial hair as a fleeting fad.

We’re pleased to say they were wrong – the beard is here to stay. And, while the big lumbersexual facial hair trend has trimmed down a little, the beard remains a staple look for style-savvy men everywhere. Beards didn’t go away, they became normal (just a little shorter than their ZZ-Top-like forefathers).

If you’re thinking of growing a facial mane or you have one that looks like a bird’s nest – our peek at the world’s best beard oils will point you in the right direction.

Beard oil is the unsung hero of the beard grooming game and if you’re serious about your facial fuzz – it should be a staple item in your toiletry bag or vanity cabinet.

A magic facial fuzz elixir, whatever beard style you wear, beard oil will ensure it’s soft, neat, and just shiny enough. The right oil will make your beard style pop while helping to protect your mane – what’s not to like?

What is beard oil?

Before we start looking at the best beard oils you can buy, let’s make a few things clear. Starting with the question, what is beard oil?

Usually blended from the likes of argan, grapeseed, tea tree, and jojoba oils which include plenty of hair-friendly nutrients – beard oil is designed to condition and moisturize both your beard hair and skin (bonus). Beard oil is often scented – giving off earthy masculine notes such as cedarwood or sweet citrusy tones, depending on your preference. Don’t worry if your nose can’t handle the smell you can still find high-quality unscented oils. 

What does beard oil do?

Before you choose a beard oil for your manly mane, you should know exactly what it does, right? Cool, we’re going to tell you now.

First and foremost, it’s about conditioning and moisturizing. “Beards have cuticles that open like pores,” says Pall Mall Barbers general manager Dan Davis. “Oil penetrates the hair to condition from the inside out.”