32 Best Beard Shampoos and Washes in 2024
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Questions? Reach us at shop@mensjournal.com.
Beard maintenance is key for the well-groomed man, whether you are new to the beard game or have a few years under your belt. The best beard shampoos and washes on the market will help you step up your beard-care routine. This list shares the top picks for the best beard-cleansing tools on the market.
Why it’s important to wash your beard
Before diving into the hairy details, it is essential to cover the basics. For instance, what should you pay attention to when finding a beard wash or shampoo? A clean beard is a happy, healthy beard. Not only will washing your beard combat common issues such as itching or dirt build-up; it will also reduce skin irritation.
In any typical day, your face comes into contact with the outside world. Therefore, your beard is a bacteria magnet. If left unclean, your skin could begin to suffer from beard dandruff and chronic itching. Using a good beard wash will help purify the skin and promote overall healthy beard growth in the long run.
What to look for in a beard wash
There are various factors to consider when buying a beard wash, from natural ingredients to fragrances to performance and even packaging. All of these play an essential role in elevating your beard-maintenance routine.
Read the small print
The performance of a beard wash or shampoo starts with its ingredients. Some properties can help relieve itchiness, dandruff or irritation of the skin. Other properties help bring shine to the facial hair while moisturizing both the skin and hair. Altogether, the ingredients deliver an unparalleled experience your beard will thank you for.
Natural ingredients tend to produce the most enriching and healthy results. Try to avoid harmful chemicals such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium chloride or formaldehyde, which are common in cheaper products. Even one of these toxic elements can deter the productive progress of your beard health, jeopardizing not only your facial hair but potentially the skin underneath as well.
Intoxicating aromas
Some beard washes and shampoos have a fragrance; others are scent-free. Which you choose will depend on personal preference. Note, however, that some essential oils offer physical benefits to your skin and beard and can have a calming effect.
Packaging plays a part
The packaging of most products is often overlooked. However, that does not mean it’s not as important as the ingredients inside. Some packaging designs have a shorter shelf-life. Keep an eye on the container that holds the product itself for a long-lasting experience.
Blu Atlas is a premium skincare line for the modern man, packed with high-quality ingredients that are backed by science. It is no surprise that this beard shampoo comes at the top of this list of the best beard shampoo and wash on the market.
The Blu Atlas shampoo will not only help improve the health of your skin but will help you feel good while using it. This 99% naturally-sourced shampoo features ingredients such as jojoba oil for beauty-enhancing effects, aloe for moisturizing and a coconut surface-active agent for a foamy texture.
For best results, lather a quarter-sized amount of product to a foamy consistency. Apply a pea-size amount of shampoo to damp hair and gently massage it into the scalp or beard daily. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, leaving no foam residue behind. Then sit back, relax and let the shampoo work its magic.
[$25; bluatlas.com]
2. Acqua di Parma Barbiere Beard Wash 
Next on the list is the famous Barbiere Beard Wash by Acqua di Parma. This wash is designed to leave you with soft, silky, shiny facial hair. Unlike other beard washes on the market, the Barbiere Beard wash is a creamy foam substance that is easy to rinse off.
It is made up of ingredients that are known to moisturize the skin, including, but not limited to, rosemary extract and pumpkin seed oil. This 200 ml beard wash is small but mighty, and packs a powerful punch.
[$35; amazon.com]
3. Scotch Porter Moisturizing Beard Wash 
The Scotch Porter gentle wash not only protects the skin; it also leaves your skin and beard soft. Aloe, burdock root and nettle leaf create a masculine floral blend that hydrates and elevates.
The Scotch Porter Beard Wash can easily last two to three months. All that is needed is a small amount applied to wet facial hair. Gently lather and massage the wash, then rinse with warm water. The fragrance leaves subtle notes of sandalwood, warm oakmoss, and a hint of vanilla and cashmere wood.
[$19; amazon.com]
Kalamazoo keeps your beard bright, buttery and bushy with fresh and invigorating ingredients that both cleanse and remove dirt. Pineapple juice erases skin impurities and brightens complexion, while the apricot kernel Ooil moisturizes and softens.
The cupuaçu butter is an excellent vegan-friendly addition that packs the necessary nutrients to keep the facial hair well-hydrated. This wash has a refreshing citrusy scent that stems from the Brazilian orange oil to enhance your mood. This is the ultimate two-in-one beard and facial wash.
[$29; lushusa.com]
The Jack Black beard wash makes this list for a good reason. Its ingredients purify and condition the beard and leave the underlying skin soft. Its hydrating properties moisturize the skin while strengthening the hair.
The aloe leaf powder and organic sea kelp are excellent for soothing any skin irritation and dryness. Whether you’re new to the beard community or a veteran, the Jack Black beard wash is an excellent addition to your skincare routine. An added bonus is that PureScience formulas back this fragrance-free beard wash.
[$19; amazon.com]
6. Duke Cannon Big Bourbon Beard Wash 
Say goodbye to disheveled beard days and hello to a well-maintained beard with Duke Cannon;s Big Bourbon Beard Wash. This beard wash has a plethora of plant-based ingredients that retain natural oils while moisturizing the skin underneath. While it works its magic, you can rest easy knowing your beard has a bright future full of healthy hair growth.
The wash features a woodsy oak barrel scent inspired by none other than the Buffalo Trace Distillery. This paraben-free beard wash comes in a generous 6 oz tube of rejuvenating product.
[$16; amazon.com]
The SheaMoisture Beard Wash for men is known to leave a fresh and clean feeling without drying out the skin and facial hair. Some consider it to be awakening due to its powerful pH balanced formula and raw ingredients such as maracuja oil and softening shea butter.
The fragrance is warm and sweet while remaining subtle on the senses. For a deep clean, massage a dime-sized amount of product into the beard, face and neck in a circular motion. This beard wash will have your beard not only looking good but smelling great.
[$10; amazon.com]
8. Bulldog Original Beard Shampoo and Conditioner
The Bulldog Beard Shampoo and Conditioner is a one-stop shop for masculine grooming at its finest. Bulldog Skincare is known for its premium quality. This product’s delicate formula features nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, camelina oil and green tea. While this beard shampoo is ideal for normal skin, it will not strip your skin and hair of its natural oils, making it a great option for any man.
[$10; amazon.com]
