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I've used a lot of different brands, some very pricey, but I just found this Honest Amish Premium oil - and love it! $20 for 2 ounce bottle.
https://www.amazon.com/Honest-Amish-Premium-Beard-Ounce/dp/B01FWB4Z66
Have you considered hair clippers? I've got an Oster Fast Feed that's 5 years old with weekly use. Obviously, you could find another model/brand, but professional grade clippers are meant to withstand some abuse.
Are you exfoliating? I use a brush like this while in the shower to help with skin health. It's the only way I've found to actually get to and stimulate my face under the long beard...tread lightly and it feels amazing.
https://www.amazon.com/Bossman-Shampoo-Scalp-Massage-Shower/dp/B07MTPJZL9
I’ve been using this beard oil I picked up from Target and it’s by far my favorite and will take care of the dry/itchy skin.
I use this one as a "finishing brush" to get the last stray hairs to lay down. It is a soft / medium bristle and doesn't scratch the skin. Bonus, the link goes to a "kit" that has a comb as well. The comb is GREAT for combing out the knots after rubbing in your oil / balm.
I put in my oil or balm then use the comb (from link) to get any knots out, then use a VERY stiff brush to get the hair ALL the way to the skin, then finish off with the brush (from link).
My beard goes well past the middle of my chest so a typical mask is really out of the question. I've been wearing more of the scarf bandana style of mask.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0873BTW33/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_RL-tFb6ZDP9AK
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088D9FVRJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-O-tFb0MRBRZQ
There are a lot of bad beard products in grocery stores and drug stores. Most companies don't really understand that beard hair and face skin is very different than head hair and skin. Beard care can get very expensive as well as overly complicated if you let it.
You man needs some beard oil to start - and I'd suggest starting out with something good but cheap - Honest Amish brand beard oil. They sell it at Walmart, but Amazon has a premium version that I like better because it has almost no smell. Nothing wrong with the one they sell at Walmart, it just smells like licorice to me and I'm not a fan of that. This is a large bottle and should last for a couple months.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FWB4Z66/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_imm_JGH2GBST1CJNKK071JEA
If the has a big beard, he doesn't need beard balm. That is more for holding the hairs in place,and if his is long, you should want them to sort of just hang and flow naturally. The oil and combing it should be enough to make it look nice.
Also, here is a video from a very popular beard youtuber addressing beard dandruff that should be helpful for you.
Straight blades fall into 2 categories; the disposable straight blades where you have to replace it every few shaves or the ones that are a single solid piece without any disposable parts. The second category tends to be pretty expensive and requires a good deal of maintenance. The first category is significantly cheaper and probably the right option for you if you are looking into trying this out. You can get a decent one for about $20 USD on Amazon and the blades are about 100 for $10 USD.
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I should add that this is what I do. I use this as my razor and I use this in lieu of shaving cream. I don't use traditional shaving cream because I just shave a small part of each of my cheeks. Try it out and as another piece of advice, if you've never used a straight razor before, when you get it, watch some youtube vids and experiment by shaving a part of your leg or thigh first cause that shit is sharp so it's better you carve your leg like a christmas ham than your face.
I got this set in January and have found them to be really good. Obviously that’s only a few months so can’t really attest to how long they’ll last, but for the price they’re at currently I would recommend. Plus, it’s clippers and a trimmer!
I bit the bullet and switched to the Wahl Senior back in May 2020 and it was a fantastic decision. I also picked up a cheap T liner off Amazon too since it doesn’t have to do much heavy lifting and the Senior can’t get those crisp lines
After a year of use, I went with a Dr Derma Pen Ultima A6.
https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Pen-Ultima-Professional-Microneedling/dp/B07JLKCP37?th=1
I use the same one everywhere. I started with this one[.
This is what I use. No reason other than it’s easily accessible at Walmart. I like it, it smells good. That’s about it.
Cremo Beard Oil - Bourbon
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076BTV9Q9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4A5JQEH8B09125J4XVC9
H brother. Not sure where you are but I can't use fix-o. I get a rash from it.
I use https://www.amazon.com/Got2b-Styling-Spiking-Ounce-Count/dp/B07DRRBD87/
I’ve been using these: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09492V2SM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
They seem to be pretty reasonable but obviously aren’t a N95 level. They work for me but I’m rarely in large enclosed settings - I avoid crowds and indoors like, well, the pandemic lol. But they don’t completely kill the beard so maybe worth checking out.
I use Eyebrow Razors to get the sharp line. They're smaller and way more easier to control than a traditional straight edge.
I use Beard Brush, 100% Boar Bristle Black Walnut Wood Beard Comb Brush for Men To Tame and Soften Your Facial Hair from Sofmild https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B098J2N6L3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Z29464W101MXXY1TBKN3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I’ve found that using a small hair trimmer works far better than any of the beard trimmers I’ve owned. You’d think they’re the same thing, but the beard ones always blunted quickly and the adjustable guards were prone to shifting to a different length midway through trim.
When I was getting a haircut from a friend of mine, I mentioned that my beard trimmers never worked as well as her hair clippers. This is the pair she was using at the time, and she ended up buying me a pair as a gift later on. Absolutely kicks the shit out my previous “beard” branded trimmers, I highly recommend.
Something to be aware of though is that it only comes with a handful of different guard sizes - each one is removable and non-adjustable. All my previous beard trimmers had an adjustable guard so you could choose what mm length you wanted.
Not being beard specific, it's the only thing that works for me to shape my beard, and it's phenomenal, very very superhard. I love the soft apple aroma it has too.
https://www.amazon.fr/Reuzel-RUZ013-Pommade-Pink-340/dp/B00VS4H8PW
I haven't been able to find an attachment long enough either, so I instead freehand with the machine until it has the approximate right length and then I finish it with this smaller scissor for hair.
I know it's not what you asked, but maybe it could give some inspiration if you fail to locate the attachments you need.
https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Schwarzkopf-Re-Nature-Re-Pigmentation-Cream-Level/dp/B07FP22GLY This recommendation of mine is becoming a classic... It's not dye, it's repigmentation to avoid "Santa" mode. It works quite well.
I was trying to buy the bossman brand conditioner (gold sent) off Amazon and the pic doesn’t match the one on their website so I’m assuming what they have on Amazon is probably an older version of the product Not only the design but the price is also different and it’s sketching me out. Ordering off their website seems like the safest option but shipping is extra and it would take longer to arrive. Where did you buy yours from?
I bought this one from Amazon:
Beard Comb - Sandalwood Natural Hatchet Style for Hair - Anti-Static & No Snag, Handmade Wide & Fine Tooth Contour Brush Best for Beard & Moustache wi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A67WSLU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_hCPcViNjiS3N7
$15 on Amazon with a lanyard to keep in around your neck
I really like these facon ones for cheap, much better than the ones that come apart with the latch. Feather Artist Clubs are the absolute best and a joy to use, basically a straight razor disposable but they are expensive, and addictive. Can’t really get a better shave and the sharpest lines you will ever find.
Artist Club looks similar but in it own league.
The nicest one I've bought is Apothecary 87 vanilla and mango. Such a wonderful sweet smell. However, I make my own butters and oils now. So simple, and can make whatever scent I want! Happy to offer advice.
Hello! I encourage you to do it. Derma rolling is the best possible thing for serum absorption. It really helped me with my beard. I bought one from Amazon that is from MATKAS like 4 months ago. I started to have results after 2 months. I used to have big spots on my beard.
Check it here if you want: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GZMBB37
Now I see it's only 8 bucks. I paid 20 bucks for 4 months ago. It's too cheap for what it offers.
I have a ZilberHarr and once my beard got to 2 months in length all it does is push my beard in. Get yourself a Chicago comb number 6 https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07D24815B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_3GF53PZC03S5DEFR39H0
Or a Buffalo horn comb once your beard gets long enough (Rounded) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B078X29NDW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_AFC36EFDDCYDX3YE34H8
Go to Walmart and in the hair section of the pharmacy you’ll find 100% raw Shea butter and it’s 10oz for $15 which is incredibly cheap compared to buying “beard butter” from a beard company.
If you can’t get to a Walmart here is a link to Amazon Canada for some very good Shea butter The Body Shop Shea Body Butter, 200ml https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001A7DUOU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_7Y3YCDRJV3GN6R74BQYH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
At night time rinse your beard and towel dry, add beard oil and wait 5 minutes for it to soak in then put in the Shea butter!
I have the smaller version of this heated brush. Very happy with it. (Smaller size looks out of stock currently)
SheaMoisture Beard Wash will make you beard soft and silky guaranteed. My two two cents? Treat your beard right by buying it it’s own shampoo.
Hey no worries. I'm glad you asked....even though the Spiking Wax and Glue have similar names, they are VERY different. I meant to say Spiking Glue actually.
Spiking Glue: A gel like product that will lock in your mustache / handlebar ends. It's very stiff and strong when it dries. I only use it occasionally now when I want a super crisp mustache / tight ends.
Phenomenal Styling Cream: This is what I use on my handlebar mustache 90% of the time. It has a moderate hold, but it lasts all day for me. I apply it when my mustache is wet, blow dry it briefly using a very small round brush (3/4"). Then add a little more with my fingers in a twisting motion to set it.
Spiking Wax: Kind of matte hair product. I use it to shape my hair (on my head) and sometimes to gently shape my beard. It does not have very strong hold. Won't do anything for your mustache.
Here's the brush I use for my handlebar ends: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017RC42W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I'm using Zeus Beard Conditioner as my daily. This is it.
The shampoo that I use every once in a while is: Polished Gentleman beard shampoo, but the one I use looks like it's not sold anymore so I can't find the link.
I wasn't aware that it wouldn't help as much with oil, so I'll have to give a pre spray a try.
I agree with you on the honest amish. I use it cause I feel like it has worked better than the other things I've used, but like you've said, it doesn't feel like it absorbs well at all.
Don't worry about it! It all helps me figure out what I need! Thanks again!
Beard Power Wooden Beard Comb & Durable Case for Men with Sexy Beard, Fine & Coarse Teeth, Pocket Comb for Beards & Mustaches,Brown Skull Design https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N1T1VL2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_CMW4X0GSQ9WANZQWFKAZ
I've had this one for just over a year now and I like it. Comes with every attachment you need, can be rinsed with water though I just brush mine off and it's cordless with a lithium ion battery that lasts a long time. There's also a decent selection of cases made for it that offer better organization than the little pouch they provide.
I like Mountaineer Beard Shampoo. I used to buy Beardbrand Shampoo and Conditioner but the bottles were so small and expensive.
I got you fam . This one I use, get your beard wet while in the shower and then leave this in for a minute or two. Gets your beard nice and soft and helps detangle for a easier time brushing. Ow and forget the trash you see at Tesco or your local supy. All horrible and usually over priced. Specifically bulldog products. God I hate thier products... Anyway best of luck dude!
I've been through a similar journey as yours and I finally did manage to tame the beast. Let's start with straightening the beard. First of get yourself a good shampoo to use. This is the one I personally use , after coming out of the shower I start brushing out the beard with a detangling brush and lightly patting it with a towel. When my beard has slightly dried I then straighten it with a round brush and hair dryer. Technique goes a long way in getting the look your going for I recommend checking out Greg berzinski's video on YouTube but you can skip all of that if your using a heated brush to straighten. Typically I stick my oil in before and my balm in after straightening. I only do this once every 3 or 4 days because to much heat can be bad for your beard.
My daily routine consists of brushing and apply balm in the morning and brushing and applying oil at night. That's pretty much it really. Took me a while to get into a habit of getting all of this done consistently but lock down gave me time to work on myself and get this ingrained into my routine. Also on your side burns, mine are the first to go all over the place too so I just get my barber to trim them down. Lastly keep a combe handy for on the fly touch ups. Can't go wrong with a good old Kent combe. Hope this helps dude and keep at it, you'll tame that beast eventually 😉
Head shampoo is too harsh for beards. It’ll dry your facial skin out and give you beardruff. I use this Mountaineer Beard Wash. You’re also only supposed to wash your beard 1-3 times per week, so it definitely lasts a while.
Cream is actually on sale at amazon for 5 bucks- https://www.amazon.com/Cremo-Improved-Fragrance-Moisturizes-Packaging/dp/B01JQXAFB0/ref=sr_1_20?dchild=1&keywords=cremo&qid=1605312129&s=outdoor-recreation&sr=1-20&th=1
Thanks that's good info. Would you say it's worth it to add another $50 on top of the regularly priced $50 magic clip for perhaps better blades/quality? Talking about this for example.
I'm using beard balm by the B.I.G company. Got it on Amazon. I don't find it shines too much and keeps it pretty in shape. I do have a shorter beard though so it may differ for longer beards. They have other products as well. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00R6KEWJ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wYqNBbRETYSPJ
Hello, I haven't heard of rice water to help promote hair growth on beards. I assume the nutrients in the rice oil provides vitamins and moisture for the skin and hair. It is probably just as good as putting on moisturizer.
However, over the years people have designed an Oil that is specific for beards. the reason any oil won't do is because oils such as almond are heavy and will leave you feeling greasy. On top of it, these heavy oils have a strong scent and even clog pores which can result in breakouts, ingrown hairs and allergies.
HiLée is a company that specializes in natural and organic beard grooming products. Check us out on Amazon
Unfortunately with your type of hair (curly and coarse) you are prone to ingrown hairs. Even though you can't completely avoid them, maintaining a grooming routine can be beneficial to reduce the amount and/or severity of those painful bumps.
A product that has been proven to help open up the pores and reduce facial sebum is Beard Oil.
HiLée is a company that specializes in natural and organic beard grooming products. Check us out on Amazon
I have relatively think beard hair and the battery options just weren't cutting it - pun intended.
Check out the Whal Peanut - https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Professional-Clipper-Trimmer-8655-200/dp/B001FDKGIW
- small and easy to handle with both hands (right hand to left no problem)
- it will cut through my thick beard in one pass - my battery powered Phillips used to get bogged down and would take several (read 10+) to get it looking clean. This is one pass and done.
- packaging claims its commercial grade. My barber has one so n = at least 1.
- smaller cutting head really isn't that big of a deal for me. It allows for some precision even.
Only con is the lack of attachments. It comes with 1/8", 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" guards and I don't see anything other than those sizes for the Peanut on Amazon. If you are looking to use this on your head, definitely consider this first.
Hey! As long as you moisturize with a beard oil after washing, you should be good.
Also, the brand HiLée has a beard shampoo that is a 2 in 1. So it works to wash the beard as well as to condition it. It is the only beard shampoo in the market that can be used every day without overdrying the beard and skin.
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I invite you to check out the HiLée Amazon page for a variety of Organic, natural and cruelty-free options for the bearded man.
Beard oil for sure.
Also, don't ever wash your beard with bar soap. Wash it using a shampoo designed for beards. It makes a difference.
After washing, always hydrating using a couple of drops of oil (depending on how long the hairs are. Mainly get it on the root of the bristles. )
Check out HiLée on Amazon. We have many natural, organic and cruelty-free options for the bearded man.
Remember that everyone's skin is different in terms of texture, sensitivity, etc. You might need to try a few products before finding the one that works best for you. Whichever brand of product you use, make sure it contains natural ingredients and no artificial additives such as silicone. That clogs up your pores and has negative effects on the beard and skin.
Good luck :)
Hey! HiLee has created a softening beard shampoo that can be used daily. It works to cleanse the beard and also moisturizes it. After washing the beard and tapping it dry with a towel, you can brush it out with a comb. If you use a beard balm, it will go the extra length by keeping all the strangling hairs together
check out HiLee on Amazon. They offer a lot of natural, organic and cruelty-free options for the bearded man.
your best chance is using beard oil, and brush it out daily to make sure the product is well distributed.
The beard oil cleanses your face from dead skin cells that might be blocking the pores and hair follicles.
With that and time, your gaps should be able to fill in. Beard hair grows in layers. Good luck
check out HiLee on Amazon. They offer a lot of natural, organic and cruelty-free options for the bearded man.
I believe it’s more subtle than that: it helps your skin be less dry by keeping your hair less dry since dry hair tends to pull the moisture out of your skin. I admit that I might be wrong.
But! What I really wanted to comment was that instead of oil ( which can be great for shaping/ style: control/ look) I found that a product that was designed as a lotion first worked really well to combat my dry-feeling skin under my beard, especially when doing initial growth from a clean shave.
Unfortunately, I don’t like very aromatic products, either, because I have a very wonderful but stupid-expensive cologne that I wear that I love a lot and want people to smell that, primarily, instead. What I landed on that fit the bill of lotion-y/cream-y and effective against dry skin and with a light scent ( they call it Agave Citrus) is the “Mitch MVRCK Skin + Beard Lotion” by Paul Mitchell. It’s kinda pricey but i love it and it works great.
Amazon non-affiliate link: Mitch Mvrck Skin + Beard Lotion, 2.5 Fl Oz ($15US) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DP9Q7R2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DhqgDbYPXMG2B
This is the one I picked up on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D7M7J45/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_Df--Db1TKFC5X
The ones like you mentioned big beards. The bristles aren't long enough to go all the way through the beard to get all of the hairs straightened. I bought mine back towards the beginning of the year, and I have been using it every day without any problems at all.
Underdog has great scents and great reviews
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07RLZW77W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Is conditioner the same thing as softener? I always see people say that you can use it everyday unlike shampoo but maybe i am mixing 2 different things up.
edit:
This for example is an Honest Amish leave-in conditioner. Correct me if I'm wrong but it acts as both a butter for day/night and as a softener so can i get it instead 2 seperate products?
I've had good results with this product. 1 step shampoo and conditioner that I apply at the beginning of my shower and rinse it out at the end....
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YBPD52Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6NvvFbJH05Z2K
https://www.amazon.com/Arkam-Premium-Beard-Straightener-Straightening/dp/B07V5X5ZK1/ref=asc_df_B07V5X5ZK1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385637910183&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15330335459853440477&hvpone=&hvptwo=&h... I've have really good luck with this brand since growing my beard. Worked well when it was short and still works as well when it's longer too. Plus the brand name reminds me of the Batman Arkham games.
Might bite the bullet then. Do you know if there are different clippers or something to change between your beard and nether regions. Also would you have any other recommendations for waterproof ones? I saw this one but I can’t tell if it’s waterproof since it says “fully washable” in the specs:
Philips Multigroom Series 7000 Cordless Wet/Dry with 19 Trimming Accessories, DualCut Technology, Lithium-Ion and Storage Bag https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B073RHH2NG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xWpdFbY6HRYG6
I use both balm and oil. Now lately I haven't used either except when I'm at home without my mask on but oils will help nourish and keep your beard healthy looking and allow the hairs to stay fresh and not dry out. The balm I use is for control since it's so long. I used some generic beard oils but I went on Amazon and spent a few dollars more on Honest Amish beard company's heavy duty oil.
Honest Amish Premium Beard oil
It has a nice woodsy/burnt tobacco smell to it and its all natural with premium ingredients.
We don't have a conditioner but we do have a beard shampoo available via Amazon UK. It's got a great crisp, clean scent from spearmint and vetiver. Let me know if you have any questions about it. The listing is here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07B599KZY
Stay bearded.
I just bought the Jurgen K off of Amazon...Was a little apprehensive at the $40 price, knowing I could do a free return but it def seems to be worth it.
Have you tried the new Wahl beard oil? https://www.amazon.com/Beard-Ounce-Hydrating-Essential-805600A/dp/B07DWHLJWL/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=wahl+beard+oil&qid=1572970927&sr=8-4
No problem - I am happy to help. Ok. In my opinion you are combing too much through out the day. This can cause split ends and make existing split ends worse as well as break and pull hairs. Another thing to consider is the width between the teeth of your comb, if it is too fine then that could be an issue as well. When it comes to the health of your beard the only reason you should be combing after your get it conditioned and shaped after your shower is if it is unruly and you need to get it in line. EDC Comb I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SKGF092/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I would recommend a balm/butter with your oil to see if that provides any positive results. One of the balms I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015OUXAMK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 As far as oil goes I make my own but Honest Amish is a great place to start. Make sure there isn't any silicone or petrolatum in your products.
Washing/Conditioning: You might also want to look into "cowashing" if you are not familiar with what cowashing is it is simply using a beard softner/beard conditioner <same thing> once a day. Put it in in the shower and let it sit for 5 min. or so then rinse it out. You can leave some in if you like to help work with the oil and balm to keep it conditioned. Be aware you can use too much of this stuff and have to wash it out to start all over. The goal is to be conditioned not wet looking.
I'm not the world's greatest connoisseur of beard oil, but this stuff has done the trick for me and it smells great.
I love my wahl lithium ion stainless steel trimmer.
https://www.amazon.com/Wahl-Stainless-Rechargeable-Professionals-9818/dp/B0058SY1XQ
I’ve had it for 2 years and it’s been hassle free. The battery on it lasts seriously long. I trim my neckline and beard every other day and only charge once a month.
My one annoyance with it is that the comb sizes go 3mm, 6mm, 10mm, 13mm, 17mm, 20mm. The jump from 6mm to 10mm is a pretty noticeable change and I wish it had an 8mm.
This is what I have used for the past 4 months. My itch was below my chin, on either jaw line, mostly my right side.
GRAVE BEFORE SHAVE BEARD WASH SHAMPOO 6oz. Tube https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017Y3YG5U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_kYp2AbESRMFXH
I have the Peanut trimmer from Wahl. It’s a plug in, so no issues with batteries. I’ve had no luck with 4 different battery powered beard trimmers from various manufacturers. The Peanut is a favorite of pros for cutting hair, and it’s not too expensive.
If you have time, I'd look for a leave in conditioner meant for african hair or coarse curly hair. Leave it in for 10 mins and then rinse. If you don't have time in the morning, maybe make it an evening treatment. I noticed you said no oil - what about shea? It's a butter and considered noncomedogenic so it shouldn't cause acne. Cantu makes a leave in conditioner with shea (also one in coconut that looks almost the same, so look for the one that says Shea) and you'll find it in the ethnic section of the shampoo aisle at Walgreens. It's a good sized container that will last you the year.
There are other options too, but I dont remember them off the top of my head rn. I have curly hair that is very picky so I've gone through a lot of products in my life to find works. So feel free to msg me if that one doesn't work for whatever reason. My boyfriend makes his own beard conditioner but its an elixer of a bunch of oils so that wont work for you. A lot of commercial beard conditioners are oil based as well unfortunately.
Kent combs are great if you have a short or straight beard. Mine is kind of long and its curly so unless im using a hair dryer i cant get even a wide tooth kent (i have a 12T) through my beard. I do use this for my mustache though.
I personally use a Wet Brush and boar bristle brush on the main beard and the kent comb on my mustache.
If you are looking for a pocket comb and have a thick/course beard, this is as good as it gets:
https://www.amazon.com/Hercules-Sagemann-Small-Hair-Seamless/dp/B003UT9PDG
I generally dont carry a comb on me these days because my beard is a little longer, but i needed one all the time in the early stages and this one is great.
Hey, yes, oil should help from the very beginning. Just make sure to not go full ham with it - too greasy could lead to clogged pores and nasty other stuff I guess.
I wouldn't have been able to grow my beard out if it wasn't for a (at least for me) relatively strict face care plan, which I started with my stubble:
wash the beard with beard shampoo as often as my hair (once every two days, I have curly, pretty dry hair though)
press the towel on my face rather than rub it dry
use a fresh towel every third or fourth shower
use beard oil on the still damp but not wet beard; 1-2 drips for the stubble should be good. Put it on your damp palm. I start on my chin and just kinda let the beard slide through the palm and then start to rub it into the skin and massage it into the hair. Don't pinch and turn the hair between your fingers (once it's long enough). Later on just increase the amount of oil but never exaggerate - a greasy look and feel sucks. Especially for yourself!
I use a wild boar brush that I clean with shampoo every once in a while to move the oil around and it also exfoliates the skin quite nicely. Don't know if that's good for irritated skin though...
Also, I had a similar situation. Big red flaky spots in my face that would hurt and cause dandruff. Whenever I clean shaved I looked like I had a severe skin disease. I couldn't find a better explanation than that it was my curly beard kinda growing and then just push against and scratch my skin constantly. I used to use a beard softening balm like this. It's German, I hope you find an equivalent. That really helped as well. Didn't use it the second beard growing time and went fine so far.
Sorry, no tl;dr. Hope this helps man!
Edit: didn't notice I'm super late to this party...
I have, what I believe, is the previous model to this one. Solid chrome. I've not had any issues with it. Charges in about 20 minutes and is good for month or so. Granted I don't use it daily. And mostly to trim around the edges of my ears and back neck. I use scissors on the beard.
Edit; Found the one I have. Just remember to not get it wet and buy a bottle of clipper oil that closes well and toss that little bottle that comes with the clippers. Oh, and you want a trimmer that you can purchase and/or sharpen the blades.
For those looking for a cheaper entry brush... I got this brush from amazon for <$1. Signed up for www.snagshout.com (amazon product review site) and i found the product in their list of items which you can get for discount if you review it.
I haven't personally found anything that caters to a specific length of beard, but from what I've read and what I've used, it's really more about the ingredients and timing of application that will do the trick.
Jojoba oil is a very popular ingredient, and though I'm lacking in sources at the moment, it's apparently very similar to our own facial oils.
I've recently switched from bushy-beard to a really short beard, and no matter what, I've found that applying oil right after a shower keeps my beard really soft and shiny throughout the day. This is all anecdotal, though, but here's an option . It's got the Jojoba oil I talked about and also looks to be the more affordable option amongst the ones I've seen. Hope this helps!
Get some wax dude. Balm/leave in conditioner for the wiley stray hairs of the beard to keep it nice and calm throughout the day but wax for the stache.
Before learning about beard care I always just did the old trim the stache at the lip thing but this time around starting from freshly shaved, once it started getting to that point where I'd start trimming it I got some wax. It takes a couple of applications to get used to because it can be gunky if you don't apply it right and it remains visible, but once you get the hang of it and apply it evenly, it's a wonder product. Keeps my hairs up and away from the lips and now, even though I still apply it regularly to maintain the stache shape and direction as it continues to grow, if I do forget it or am running low on time, even a quick comb will keep the hairs away from the lip and on the course they've been trained to abide.
For what it's worth, I went with Fireman's brand. They have several different shades depending on your beard. But look around, read reviews and see what you like and give it a shot.
If you have any questions, ask away.
I was using the normal Honest Amish beard wax. I needed something with a little more taming ability as my beard got longer. I switched to this Viking Beard Balm and have so far enjoyed it. It seems a little more of a butter base than the honest amish, and it seems to help my beard "sit" cleaner the whole day. The smell is also very subtle and pleasant, compared to the honest amish which was a bit more of a distinguished smell.
I haven't tried the Heavy Duty formula from HA however, so I can't compare the 2 directly. If you're looking for something new to try, I say the Viking stuff is worth a shot.
I have both of these and I love them. My face smells like fresh cut cedar wood and my beard is full and soft. I only recently realized they sell these two things together.
As for a brush/comb, I've used boar hair brushes as well as wooden and plastic combs over the last 6 months of bearddom and don't really have a preference. I think that one will entirely depend on how thick/wiry/savage your facial hair is.
Edit: This looks promising too. I have the Grandpas Pine Tar Soap and it smells almost exactly like campfire smoke. It's fantastic. I haven't used Grave Before Shave products yet, but I hear good things about them
I really like Honest Amish Beard Balm Conditioner., Transfer, Pa
It has a really great smell that isn't overbearing and fades in a hour or so.
Professor Fuzzworthy Beard Gloss I love this stuff it sorta highlights the reds and blacks of my calico beard and gives just a little hold.