QUICK SUMMARY
DIY beard oil with essential oils is a simple, non-toxic grooming recipe that helps soften coarse facial hair, moisturize the skin underneath, reduce the look of beard flakes, tame flyaways, and add a clean masculine scent without synthetic fragrance.
This homemade beard oil uses sweet almond oil and jojoba oil as lightweight carrier oils, then adds clove, white fir, bergamot, and lemon essential oils for a warm, woodsy, spicy-citrus aroma. It works like a leave-in conditioner for facial hair and a moisturizing oil for the skin under the beard.
Use 2-5 drops daily after showering or washing the face. Massage the oil into the skin first, then work it through the beard and comb it into place. You can also customize the recipe with the minty fresh or harvest spice variations below.
Beard oil is a lightweight grooming oil made with carrier oils, and often essential oils, that conditions facial hair and moisturizes the skin underneath. It helps soften rough beard hair, reduce dryness, improve manageability, and add a pleasant scent.
Is No-Shave-November a yearly tradition in your home? Maybe your man sports a dashing beard all year long! If so, show him love by gifting him this fantastic DIY beard oil with essential oils.
Table of Contents
What Is Beard Oil?
If the man in your life has been a little reluctant about using essential oils, this recipe is sure to win him over. It’s practical, it smells amazing, and it helps tame his beard without synthetic fragrance or mystery ingredients. Everyone wins!
Here’s the thing: non-toxic living is not just about what we eat. It also includes what we put on our skin every day. A man’s beard oil sits close to his mouth, nose, and skin for hours, so choosing clean ingredients matters. This is a simple way to reduce toxic burden while making daily grooming feel more intentional.
Application: Use beard oil after a shower, face wash, or warm towel when the beard is clean and slightly damp. Add a few drops to the palms, massage into the skin under the beard, then work through the hair.
3 Benefits of Beard Oil
A well-moisturized beard is a neat beard! Facial hair tends to be coarser than the hair on your head, and it needs a little extra TLC. Here are a few benefits of beard oil.
1. Softens Hair
Beard oil is like a leave-in conditioner for men. It helps soften rough facial hair and can make it appear tamer. The hair on your head has a lot of natural sebum that gives it shine. Facial hair often needs a little boost in this department, and a quality beard oil will add sheen without looking greasy.
Put simply, beard oil helps make a scratchy beard feel smoother. That’s good news for the man wearing it and for everyone who loves him!
Carrier oils coat the hair shaft, reduce the dry, wiry feeling, and make the beard easier to brush, shape, and maintain. If his beard looks frizzy, dull, or unruly, a few drops of oil can make a noticeable difference.
Application: Start with 2-3 drops for a short beard, 4-5 drops for a medium beard, and a few more for a long or thick beard. Add more only if needed.
2. Moisturizes Skin
Beard oil can also moisturize dry skin! The skin under facial hair is similar to your scalp in that it can get dry. This dry skin leads to itching, which can lead to a beard’s version of dandruff. Adding extra moisture helps combat dryness and leaves the skin feeling healthy.
This is important because many men apply beard oil only to the hair and forget the skin underneath. The skin is where beard itch and flakes usually start. Massage the oil down to the roots and into the skin so the carrier oils can do their job.
This DIY uses a great mix of carrier oils for optimal hydration. Jojoba oil is especially helpful in facial care because it is a liquid wax ester that closely resembles the skin’s natural oils and has been studied for anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and skin-supportive properties. (2)
Application: After applying beard oil, use the fingertips to gently massage the skin under the beard for 20-30 seconds. This helps distribute the oil evenly and supports a healthier-looking beard.
3. Adds Scent Without Synthetic Fragrance
The scent of beard oil is the cherry on top! Everyone likes their man to smell good, and this oil uses a great mix of essential oils to create that clean, manly scent.
The best part of this recipe is that we stay away from synthetic fragrances, which are a common trigger for allergic contact dermatitis and fragrance sensitivity. Research continues to identify fragrance ingredients as important causes of skin sensitization in personal care products. (1)
Reality check: “fragrance” on a label can represent many undisclosed chemicals. When you make your own beard oil, you get to choose exactly what goes on his skin.
Essential oils are potent, so we use them with respect. This recipe keeps the drops low, dilutes them in carrier oils, and uses a practical blend that smells great without overwhelming the skin.
Application: If he has sensitive skin, do a patch test on the inner arm before using this beard oil on the face.
Carrier Oil Options:
Many people have allergies that may limit them from using specific carrier oils. You don’t have to stress! No matter your unique needs, there is a carrier oil that’s perfect for you. Here are some of my favorites.
- Argan Oil: This oil has a high fatty acid content, making it one of the deepest moisturizers for the skin. Argan oil sinks into the skin beautifully. If your man struggles with flaky skin, this is an option to keep in mind.
- Jojoba Oil: Pronounced “HO-hoba,” this oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and won’t clog pores for most people. If your man struggles with acne-prone or oily skin, jojoba oil is the option for him!
- Sweet Almond Oil: This oil works great for relieving dry, itchy-feeling skin. Sweet almond oil is incredibly softening, making it perfect for scratchy facial hair!
Which carrier oil is best for beard oil? Jojoba oil is one of the best carrier oils for beard oil because it is lightweight, stable, and well suited for facial skin. Sweet almond oil is great for softening, argan oil is wonderful for dry skin, and grapeseed oil is a nice option for men who prefer a lighter feel.
Nut allergy note: If there is a nut allergy in your home, skip sweet almond oil and use jojoba oil, argan oil, grapeseed oil, or fractionated coconut oil instead.
What Ingredients Are in DIY Beard Oil?
This recipe is like heaven in a bottle! The men in your life will finish their morning or evening routines feeling pampered. The essential oils I chose will give the senses an aromatherapy experience to remember. Here’s what you need to make this recipe.
Sweet Almond Oil: When using essential oils in a recipe, it’s necessary to use a carrier oil. These oils help slow the dispersion of oils, so your system doesn’t get overwhelmed. Diluting with a carrier oil can prevent skin irritations as well. I love using carrier oils because it makes my essential oils last longer.
Sweet almond oil adds soothing fatty acids and vitamin E to your skin. It’s lightly moisturizing and has a slightly sweet scent. Almond oil has long been used as an emollient in skin care and is valued for helping soften and smooth the skin. (3) If you have nut allergies, substitute this oil with one of the carrier oil options mentioned in this post.
Jojoba Oil: This is another excellent carrier oil. This oil is incredibly versatile and great for DIYs because it doesn’t harden as fast as pure coconut oil. It works well in skincare products because it is deeply moisturizing and has anti-inflammatory properties. Research reviews describe jojoba oil as having anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-acne, and skin barrier-supportive benefits. (2)
For beard care, jojoba oil is a winner because it feels light on the face. It helps condition the beard without making it look like it was dipped in cooking oil.
Clove Essential Oil: Clove has a spicy smell, making it the perfect addition to men’s products! Clove is an essential oil with remarkable antibacterial properties. Studies show that clove essential oil and its main constituent eugenol demonstrate antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria and fungi. (4)
Because clove is a “hot” oil, don’t add extra drops. More is not better here. The goal is a warm, masculine note with proper dilution.
White Fir Essential Oil: White fir has a clean, woodsy scent. I find white fir to be energizing and calming at the same time.
This oil gives the blend that outdoorsy, evergreen aroma that many men enjoy. It pairs beautifully with clove and citrus oils and helps the final scent feel more like a natural cologne than a sweet perfume.
Bergamot Essential Oil: Bergamot is a powerful citrus oil. It has been studied for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, skin, and mood-supportive benefits. (5)
Bergamot helps brighten this beard oil and keeps the blend from smelling too heavy. For leave-on skin products, choose bergapten-free bergamot when possible, especially if the beard area will be exposed to strong sunlight.
Lemon Essential Oil: Lemon is one of the most cost-effective oils because it’s a multi-tasker! Use it in cleaning products, diffuser blends, and your DIYs. Lemon has an uplifting citrus scent and is rich in d-limonene. Citrus essential oils and limonene-rich oils have been studied for calming, mood-supportive, and stress-related aromatherapy benefits. (6)
Like bergamot, cold-pressed lemon essential oil can be phototoxic. Use this beard oil sparingly and avoid applying it right before long periods of direct sun exposure.
Why Make Homemade Beard Oil?
Homemade beard oil gives you control over the ingredients, scent, strength, and cost. Instead of buying a commercial beard oil made with synthetic fragrance, petroleum-derived ingredients, or harsh preservatives, you can make a fresh bottle with simple carrier oils and essential oils.
This is the kind of DIY I love because it is simple, practical, and giftable. You don’t need fancy equipment. You don’t need a long ingredient list. You just need a glass dropper bottle, two carrier oils, and a few essential oils.
Homemade beard oil is best for:
- Men with dry or itchy beards
- Men who want a cleaner grooming routine
- Families reducing synthetic fragrance exposure
- DIY gifts for husbands, dads, sons, brothers, and friends
- No-Shave-November, Father’s Day, birthdays, and Christmas
Application: Make a few bottles at once and change the essential oil blend for each season. Add a handmade label and pair it with Natural Aftershave Spray for a thoughtful men’s grooming gift.
2 Easy Steps to a High-Quality Beard Oil
Your return on investment is high with this recipe! In just two simple steps, you’ll have luxurious beard oil.
High-Quality Beard Oil
Quantity
Ingredients
- ½ ounce sweet almond oil*
- ½ ounce jojoba oil
- 3 drops clove essential oil
- 3 drops white fir essential oil
- 2 drops bergamot essential oil
- 2 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions
- Pour the sweet almond and jojoba oil into a glass bottle with dropper or PET plastic pump bottle.
- Add the essential oils and shake to blend.
Step One: Pour the Carrier Oils
Pour the sweet almond and jojoba oil into a glass bottle with a dropper.
Step Two: Shake to Blend
Add the essential oils and gently shake to combine.
How to Use Beard Oil
Use beard oil by placing 2-5 drops in the palm of your hand, rubbing your hands together, massaging the oil into the skin under the beard, and then working it through the facial hair from root to tip.
For best results, apply beard oil after showering or washing the face. Warm water helps soften the hair and skin, making it easier to distribute the oil evenly.
Application:
- Short beard: Start with 2 drops.
- Medium beard: Use 3-5 drops.
- Long or thick beard: Use 5-8 drops as needed.
Comb or brush the beard after applying to help tame flyaways and spread the oil evenly.
When Should You Apply Beard Oil?
The best time to apply beard oil is after showering, washing the face, or using a warm towel. The beard should be clean and slightly damp, not soaking wet.
Most men can use beard oil once daily. Men with very dry skin or a long beard may prefer morning and evening use. Men with oily or acne-prone skin may do best with a lighter application every other day.
How Long Does Homemade Beard Oil Last?
Homemade beard oil usually lasts 6-12 months when stored in a cool, dark place and kept free from water. The shelf life depends on the freshness of your carrier oils.
If the oil smells rancid, sour, or “off,” throw it away and make a fresh batch.
Variations
The best part about making your own products is that you can customize them to your liking! Here are two delicious variations that are sure to make any man’s day.
Minty Fresh DIY Beard Oil Recipe
To make a minty fresh version, keep your carrier oil amounts the same, but swap the essential oils for four drops of peppermint. Peppermint essential oil is refreshing and has a cooling effect on the skin! Bonus: This oil is excellent for improving focus!
This variation of beard oil would make a wonderful Christmas gift. I’d suggest pairing it with a quality razor to clean up edges, a bottle of my Natural Aftershave Spray, and a fluffy towel.
Minty Fresh DIY Beard Oil
Quantity
Ingredients
- ½ ounce sweet almond oil*
- ½ ounce jojoba oil
- 4 drops peppermint essential oil
- 4 drops vanilla essential oil OR vanilla absolute CO2 OR oleoresin
Supplies
Instructions
- Pour coconut oil and jojoba oil into the bottle.
- Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Harvest Spice DIY Beard Oil Recipe
To make Fall-inspired beard oil, keep your carrier oil amounts the same and swap the essential oils for three drops of cinnamon bark oil, three drops of orange oil, and one drop of tea tree oil. This blend smells extra spicy and gets me in the mood to cuddle up by a crackling fire.
Cinnamon bark essential oil is powerful and should be used with care. Don’t add extra drops, especially in a leave-on product used on the face.
Harvest Spice DIY Beard Oil
Quantity
Ingredients
- ½ ounce argan oil*
- ½ ounce sweet almond oil
- 3 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
- 3 drops orange essential oil
- 1 drop tea tree essential oil
Supplies
Instructions
- Pour argan oil and sweet almond oil into the bottle.
- Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
DIY Beard Oil FAQs
What does beard oil do?
Beard oil softens facial hair, moisturizes the skin underneath, reduces the dry flaky look of beard dandruff, helps calm beard itch, adds shine, and makes the beard easier to groom.
What is beard oil made of?
Beard oil is usually made with carrier oils such as jojoba, sweet almond, argan, grapeseed, or fractionated coconut oil. Many beard oils also include essential oils for scent and added skin-supportive benefits.
What is the best carrier oil for beard oil?
Jojoba oil is one of the best carrier oils for beard oil because it is lightweight, non-greasy, and similar to the skin’s natural oils. Sweet almond oil is great for softening, and argan oil is helpful for dry, flaky skin.
Can I use beard oil every day?
Yes, most men can use beard oil every day. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, start with a smaller amount and apply every other day until you see how your skin responds.
Does beard oil help beard dandruff?
Beard oil can help reduce the dry, flaky look of beard dandruff by moisturizing the skin under the beard. For best results, massage the oil into the skin, not just the hair.
Does beard oil help beard growth?
Beard oil does not create new hair follicles or guarantee beard growth. It can support healthier-looking facial hair by moisturizing the skin, softening the beard, reducing breakage, and making the beard easier to maintain.
How much beard oil should I use?
Use 2-3 drops for a short beard, 3-5 drops for a medium beard, and 5-8 drops for a long or thick beard. Start small because you can always add more.
Can beard oil replace beard balm?
Beard oil and beard balm are different. Beard oil moisturizes and softens, while beard balm usually contains butters or waxes that add hold and shape. Men with longer beards may enjoy using both.
Is beard oil good for sensitive skin?
Beard oil can be good for sensitive skin when it is made with gentle carrier oils and properly diluted essential oils. Always patch test first, and avoid hot oils like clove or cinnamon if your skin is very reactive.
What essential oils are good for beard oil?
Clove, cedarwood, sandalwood, white fir, bergamot, lemon, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and orange are popular essential oils for beard oil. Always dilute properly and use caution with citrus oils before sun exposure.
Can women use beard oil on hair?
Yes, women can use a small amount of beard oil on dry hair ends or flyaways if the ingredients are suitable for their skin and hair. Use only a drop or two to avoid a greasy look.
Can I use beard oil after shaving?
You can use beard oil after shaving around the beard area, but avoid applying it directly to freshly nicked, irritated, or broken skin. For freshly shaved skin, use a gentle aftershave recipe instead.
How should I store homemade beard oil?
Store homemade beard oil in a glass dropper bottle in a cool, dark place. Keep water out of the bottle and replace the oil if the scent changes or the carrier oils smell rancid.
Is homemade beard oil a good gift?
Yes! Homemade beard oil makes a great gift for husbands, dads, sons, brothers, and friends. It’s especially fun for No-Shave-November, Father’s Day, birthdays, Christmas, and natural grooming gift baskets.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11334351/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8197201/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20129403/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3819475/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6392855/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9774566/
