10 Best Beard Wash & Conditioner Sets for a Softer Beard

That persistent beard itch isn't something you just have to live with. If your beard feels more like a wire brush and your skin is constantly flaky, the problem isn't your beard; it's your products. Using regular hair shampoo on your face strips away the essential oils that keep your beard and skin healthy, leading to irritation and the dreaded "beardruff." The solution is simpler than you think. A dedicated wash and conditioner can transform your grooming routine, solving these common issues at the source. This guide will walk you through everything you need to find the best beard wash & conditioner for your needs, so you can finally get the soft, comfortable, and great-looking beard you're after.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a wash made for your face, not your scalp: Regular shampoo is too harsh for facial skin and strips away the natural oils your beard needs, causing dryness and irritation. A dedicated beard wash is formulated to cleanse gently while keeping your beard and the skin underneath hydrated.
• Focus on high-quality ingredients: The best formulas contain nourishing ingredients like natural oils and beef tallow to deeply moisturize your beard and skin. Always check the label to avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, which are common culprits for irritation.
• Wash strategically and always moisturize afterward: For most guys, washing one to three times a week is ideal for keeping your beard clean without stripping it. The most important step is to follow up with a beard oil or balm on a damp beard to lock in hydration and keep it soft.

Why Your Beard Needs Its Own Wash & Conditioner

If you’re using regular hair shampoo on your beard, you’re doing it a disservice. The skin on your face is more sensitive than your scalp, and beard hair has a completely different texture. Using the wrong product strips essential moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, and an unruly beard. A dedicated beard wash and conditioner is formulated to gently cleanse while delivering the hydration your beard needs. This simple switch solves common problems like itchiness and flakes, setting the foundation for a great beard.

The Problem with Using Regular Shampoo

Most shampoos are designed to tackle an oily scalp by stripping away excess sebum. When you use that same formula on your face, it strips away the natural oils that keep your beard and skin moisturized. The result? Your beard becomes dry and brittle, and the skin underneath gets flaky and intensely itchy, leading to the dreaded "beardruff." It’s a recipe for discomfort and a less-than-impressive beard that feels rough to the touch. A proper beard wash avoids this harsh stripping action, cleansing gently without causing damage.

How Beard Hair Differs from Head Hair

Beard hair is not the same as head hair. It’s a different type of hair called androgenic hair, which is much coarser, wirier, and more prone to tangling. Because of its unique structure, it needs more moisture and conditioning to stay soft and manageable. Regular shampoo isn't equipped to provide that level of hydration. A proper beard wash is formulated with gentler cleansers and richer moisturizers to specifically address the needs of coarse facial hair and the sensitive skin it grows from. This targeted approach makes all the difference in how your beard looks and feels.

What Happens When You Use the Wrong Products

Using the wrong products can make existing beard issues worse. Beyond regular shampoo, watch out for low-quality "beard washes" that are just harsh body washes in disguise, packed with drying sulfates. Always check the ingredients list. If problems like severe flaking persist even after switching products, the issue might be related to your diet or a skin condition that a dermatologist should check out. Starting with a quality set like The Daly Clean Collection ensures you're using gentle, effective ingredients from the start, helping you avoid common pitfalls.

What to Look for in a Beard Wash & Conditioner

Walking down the grooming aisle can feel overwhelming. Every bottle promises a better beard, but the secret to a truly great wash and conditioner lies in the ingredient list. The right formula will clean and soften your beard without stripping away essential moisture, while the wrong one can leave you with dry skin and a brittle beard. Knowing what to look for is the first step toward finding a product that actually works.

Nourishing Oils for a Healthier Beard

Look for products packed with natural, nourishing oils. Ingredients like Argan Oil and Coconut Oil are fantastic because they mimic the natural oils your skin produces. They work to hydrate both your beard hair and the skin underneath, which is crucial for preventing itchiness and flakes. A good beard wash should clean away dirt and grime while leaving these beneficial oils behind to keep everything moisturized. When your beard and skin are properly hydrated, your facial hair will feel softer, look healthier, and be much easier to manage day-to-day.

The Power of Beef Tallow in Beard Care

One of the most effective ingredients you can find is beef tallow. This powerhouse ingredient is packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are essential for healthy skin and hair. Tallow is incredibly moisturizing and has a unique ability to soften even the most coarse and unruly beard hair, making it more manageable. Because its composition is similar to our skin’s natural oils, it absorbs easily without leaving a greasy residue. Using a tallow-based wash helps support a healthy skin barrier, which means less irritation and a stronger foundation for beard growth. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense ingredient that delivers real results.

Harsh Ingredients to Avoid

Just as important as what’s in your beard wash is what’s not in it. Many products on the market, even those labeled for beards, are filled with harsh detergents that can do more harm than good. Be wary of anything that feels like a standard body wash, as these can strip your beard of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Specifically, you’ll want to avoid parabens and sulfates. These chemicals are known to cause skin irritation and can disrupt the natural balance of your skin and hair. Always take a moment to check the label for a clean, simple formula.

10 Best Beard Wash & Conditioner Sets to Try

Ready to find the perfect duo for your beard? We’ve rounded up ten of the best wash and conditioner sets that deliver on their promises. From premium, tallow-based formulas to all-natural options, there’s something here for every beard and budget.

1. DALYSMOOTH First Tee Smooth Set

If you want a beard that feels as good as it looks, start here. The First Tee Smooth Set is built around our signature tallow-based wash, which cleanses without stripping away natural oils. It’s packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K to nourish the skin underneath your beard, stopping itch and flakes at the source. The set includes our matching beard balm to soften, condition, and provide a light hold for styling. The scent is fresh and clean, like a perfect morning on the course, making it a solid choice for daily use.

2. DALYSMOOTH Sandalwood Bourbon Smooth Set

For those who prefer a warmer, more sophisticated scent, the Sandalwood Bourbon Smooth Set is an excellent pick. It features the same high-performance, tallow-powered wash and balm as our First Tee set, ensuring your beard and skin get the deep nourishment they need. The rich blend of sandalwood and bourbon creates a classic, masculine fragrance that lasts without being overpowering. This set is perfect for conditioning a dry, unruly beard while leaving you smelling incredible. It’s a straightforward routine that delivers serious results.

3. Beard Octane Complete Wash & Conditioner Kit

Beard Octane is known for its high-quality formulas designed for serious beard care. Their wash and conditioner kits are made to work together to cleanse, hydrate, and soften even the most stubborn facial hair. With a variety of scents to choose from, you can find a combination that fits your personal style. This brand focuses on performance, making it a reliable choice for men who want a no-nonsense routine that keeps their beard in top shape day in and day out.

4. Viking Revolution Beard Wash & Conditioner Set

Viking Revolution offers some of the most popular beard kits on the market, and for good reason. Their wash and conditioner sets are effective and often come with unique, bold scents like Coffee & Whiskey or Spiced Vanilla. These products are designed to tackle common beard problems like dryness and itchiness while leaving your beard feeling soft and manageable. They provide a great all-around grooming experience, making them a favorite for both beginners and seasoned beard growers.

5. Scotch Porter Smoothing Beard Wash & Conditioner

If your main goal is to fight frizz and soften a coarse beard, Scotch Porter is a fantastic option. Their formulas are known for being incredibly moisturizing, helping to detangle knots and smooth unruly hairs. The wash cleanses gently, while the conditioner provides deep hydration that leaves your beard feeling silky and smooth. It’s a go-to for men with thicker, curlier beards who need extra help with manageability and softness.

6. Honest Amish Beard Wash & Conditioner Duo

For the guy who prioritizes natural ingredients, Honest Amish is a top contender. This brand built its reputation on using organic, plant-based ingredients to create gentle yet effective grooming products. Their beard wash and conditioner duo cleanses without harsh chemicals, relying on natural oils and botanicals to soften and condition your beard. It’s an excellent choice for men with sensitive skin or anyone looking to stick to a clean, all-natural grooming routine.

7. Mountaineer Brand Beard Wash & Conditioner

Inspired by the rugged outdoors, Mountaineer Brand offers products that are simple, natural, and effective. Their beard wash and conditioner are formulated to handle the wear and tear your beard faces every day. Using minimal ingredients, this set focuses on providing essential moisture and nutrients to keep your beard healthy and strong. It’s a great pick for the low-maintenance guy who wants quality products without any unnecessary additives or fragrances.

8. Professor Fuzzworthy's Beard Shampoo & Conditioner

Professor Fuzzworthy's offers a unique take on beard washing with its popular beard shampoo bar. This solid shampoo is easy to use, lathers up nicely, and is formulated specifically for facial hair. Made with natural ingredients from Tasmania, it’s designed to clean your beard thoroughly while leaving it soft and conditioned. It’s a great travel-friendly and eco-conscious option that doesn’t compromise on performance.

9. Grave Before Shave Beard Wash & Conditioner

Known for its fresh, masculine scents, Grave Before Shave delivers a wash and conditioner set that leaves your beard smelling as good as it looks. The wash creates a rich lather that cleanses away dirt and grime, while the conditioner helps to hydrate and soften your beard. Users consistently praise its great scent and the healthy, clean appearance it gives their facial hair. It’s a solid, budget-friendly choice that gets the job done well.

10. Cremo Beard & Scruff Softener Set

Cremo is a widely trusted brand in men’s grooming, and their beard products live up to the name. Their wash and softener set is designed to work on everything from short scruff to a full beard. The formulas are engineered to provide superior moisture, helping to reduce itch and irritation, especially in the early stages of beard growth. It’s a reliable and accessible option that you can count on to keep your beard feeling soft and comfortable.

Find the Right Wash & Conditioner for Your Beard

Finding the right grooming products can feel like a guessing game, but it doesn’t have to be. The secret to a great-looking beard isn’t just about washing it; it’s about using a wash and conditioner that match your specific beard type and skin needs. A coarse, curly beard has completely different requirements than a fine, straight one, and using the wrong formula can lead to everything from dryness and breakage to irritation and the dreaded beardruff.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't use the same tools to build a deck as you would to fix a watch. Your beard deserves that same level of specific care. By identifying whether your beard is coarse, fine, or if your underlying skin is sensitive or prone to dryness, you can zero in on the ingredients and formulas that will actually work for you. This targeted approach is the fastest way to get the soft, healthy, and manageable beard you’re after. Let’s break down what to look for based on your beard’s unique profile.

For Coarse and Curly Beards

If your beard is thick, coarse, or curly, you know the struggle with tangles and a texture that feels more like a wire brush than hair. Your main goal is hydration. Coarse hair has a tendency to dry out, which makes it unruly and rough to the touch. You need a wash and conditioner combo packed with moisturizing ingredients that can penetrate those thick hair shafts. Look for products specifically labeled as a moisturizing beard wash to cleanse without stripping away the natural oils your beard desperately needs. A quality conditioning wash will help soften the hair, making it easier to manage and style.

For Fine and Thin Beards

For guys with fine or thinner beards, the challenge is finding a product that cleans effectively without weighing the hair down. Heavy formulas can make your beard look flat and even sparser than it is. The key is to find a lightweight wash that cleanses both your beard and the skin underneath without leaving behind a heavy residue. A gentle, dual-purpose beard and face wash is often a great choice because it’s formulated to rinse clean. You want your beard to feel soft and look full, not greasy or limp, so stick to clarifying yet gentle ingredients.

For Sensitive Skin

Redness, itchiness, and irritation under your beard are clear signs that you have sensitive skin. The last thing you want is a beard wash loaded with harsh chemicals that make the problem worse. If this sounds like you, checking the ingredient list is non-negotiable. You’ll want to find formulas that are free from common irritants like parabens and sulfates. Many products designed for sensitive skin will highlight what they don't include, which is a good sign. A gentle, hydrating wash will calm the skin while cleaning your beard, giving you relief from that constant irritation.

For Dry Skin and Beardruff

Beardruff (beard dandruff) is a common issue, and it’s almost always caused by dry, irritated skin beneath your facial hair. Using regular head shampoo on your beard is a frequent culprit, as it can strip the delicate skin on your face of its natural oils. To combat flakes, you need a beard-specific wash that prioritizes skin health. Look for products that treat the skin underneath, as these will not only eliminate flakes but also help create a healthier environment for beard growth. A wash with natural, soothing ingredients is your best bet for getting rid of itch and irritation for good.

How Often to Wash and Condition Your Beard

Figuring out the right wash schedule for your beard can feel like a guessing game, but it doesn't have to be. The goal is simple: keep your beard clean and fresh without stripping away the natural oils that keep it soft and healthy. Unlike the hair on your head, your beard gets its moisture directly from the skin on your face, which produces a finite amount of sebum (your body’s natural oil). Washing too often can disrupt this balance, leading to a dry, itchy, and brittle beard.

On the flip side, not washing enough can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and a beard that feels greasy and weighed down. Finding that perfect balance is key to maintaining a beard that looks and feels its best. It’s less about following a rigid set of rules and more about paying attention to what your beard and skin are telling you. Your lifestyle, skin type, and even the climate you live in all play a role in creating the perfect grooming routine.

Create a Schedule for Your Beard Type

A great starting point for most guys is to wash their beards one to three times a week. This frequency is usually enough to clear away dirt, grime, and excess oil without causing dryness. If you have oily skin or work a job that gets you dirty, you might lean toward washing every other day. If your skin is on the drier side, you might find that washing just once or twice a week is plenty.

The key is to use a wash specifically designed for beards, which is gentler than regular shampoo. Follow it up with a nourishing conditioner or balm to replenish moisture. A high-quality beard care set will give you everything you need to keep your beard clean, soft, and manageable.

Signs You're Washing Too Much or Too Little

Your beard will give you clear signals when your washing routine is off. If you’re washing too often, you’ll likely notice your beard feels dry, brittle, and straw-like. Your skin might become flaky, leading to the dreaded "beardruff," and you may experience more itchiness than usual. Another tell-tale sign is when your beard products seem to stop working; this can happen when product buildup prevents your beard from absorbing moisture.

On the other hand, if you’re not washing enough, your beard might feel greasy, heavy, and look dull. You could also experience breakouts or skin irritation underneath your beard from clogged pores. Pay attention to these signs and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Adjust Your Routine with the Seasons

Just like you change your wardrobe with the seasons, you may need to tweak your beard care routine. During the cold, dry winter months, the air has less humidity, which can suck the moisture right out of your beard and skin. You might find you need to condition more often or use a richer beard balm to lock in hydration and protect your beard from the harsh elements.

In the summer, heat and humidity can make you sweat more, which can lead to buildup and clogged pores. You might need to wash your beard a bit more frequently to keep it feeling fresh and clean. The best approach is to stay flexible and adapt your routine based on how your beard feels day to day.

How to Use Beard Wash & Conditioner the Right Way

Having the right products is a great start, but your technique is what delivers the best results. A solid grooming routine doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, just a few simple steps can completely change the health and appearance of your beard, turning it from dry and unruly to soft and manageable. Think of it as building a foundation. When you wash and condition correctly, you’re setting your beard up for success, making it easier to style and helping your other products, like oils and balms, work more effectively. Getting the application right ensures you’re not just cleaning your beard, but truly nourishing it from the skin up.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Application

First, get your beard completely wet with warm water. This helps open up the hair cuticles and your pores, allowing the products to penetrate deeply. Next, squeeze a small amount of beard wash into your palm and work it into a rich lather. Massage it through your beard, making sure you scrub the skin underneath to clear away dead skin cells and buildup. After rinsing out the wash, apply your conditioner. Focus on coating the hair from root to tip and let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing. This simple beard care routine cleans your facial hair while moisturizing the skin underneath.

Rinse Thoroughly for a Clean Finish

This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most important steps. Failing to rinse all the product out can lead to buildup, which weighs your beard down and can cause skin irritation or flakes. Make sure you rinse with lukewarm water until your beard feels completely clean and free of any slippery residue. A thorough rinse ensures your hair follicles are clean and ready to absorb the nourishing ingredients from your beard oil or balm. It’s the final step in the cleaning process that leaves your beard feeling fresh and looking its best, without any leftover product to dull its shine or clog your pores.

Follow Up with Beard Oil or Balm

Washing and conditioning are only part of the equation. To lock in moisture and keep your beard healthy, you need to follow up with the right products. After gently patting your beard dry with a towel, it’s time for oil or balm. Beard oil is designed to moisturize the skin beneath your beard, preventing the dryness and itchiness that leads to beardruff. Beard balm, on the other hand, is thicker and helps condition the hair itself while providing a light hold for styling. For a complete system, The Full Swing Bundle gives you everything you need to wash, condition, and style your beard for a clean, confident look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Beard Products

Finding the right beard care products can feel like a game of trial and error. If you’ve been trying different washes and conditioners without getting the results you want, you might be making a few common mistakes. It’s not just about picking a product that smells good; it’s about understanding what your beard and the skin underneath actually need.

Getting your routine right starts with avoiding the pitfalls that can leave your beard feeling dry, heavy, or irritated. Let’s walk through some of the most frequent missteps so you can choose products that will actually help you achieve a softer, healthier beard. By sidestepping these errors, you’ll be on the fast track to a grooming routine that works for you, not against you.

Choosing Products That Strip Natural Oils

One of the biggest mistakes is using regular hair shampoo on your beard. The skin on your face is more sensitive than your scalp, and the cleansers in most head shampoos are far too harsh. These formulas strip away the natural oils (sebum) your beard needs to stay hydrated and healthy. When you remove those oils, you’re left with a dry, brittle, and itchy beard. Instead, look for a dedicated beard wash that uses gentle, nourishing ingredients to cleanse without causing damage.

Ignoring Product Buildup from Over-Conditioning

When your beard feels dry, it’s tempting to load up on conditioner or balm, but more isn’t always better. Using too much product can lead to buildup on your beard hair and skin. This residue can weigh your beard down, make it look greasy, and even clog your pores, leading to irritation. If your products suddenly seem to stop working, buildup might be the culprit. Start with a small, dime-sized amount of product and add more only if you need it. This approach ensures your beard gets moisture without a heavy, sticky mess.

Forgetting to Consider Your Skin Type

A healthy beard grows from healthy skin, so you can’t ignore what’s happening underneath. Many guys focus only on their beard hair and forget the skin below needs care, too. If you have dry, flaky skin, you’ll likely end up with beardruff. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, the wrong products can make things worse. Pay attention to ingredients that benefit your skin. For example, the tallow in our First Tee Smooth Set is packed with vitamins that deeply nourish the skin and help maintain a healthy barrier, keeping irritation and dryness at bay.

Find the Best Beard Care for Your Budget

A great beard doesn't have to cost a fortune, but investing in quality products can make a world of difference in how your beard looks and feels. The key is finding the right balance between your budget and your beard's specific needs. Whether you're just starting your grooming journey or you're a seasoned pro looking for an upgrade, there are excellent options at every price point. Think of it less as spending money and more as investing in your confidence. A well-maintained beard not only looks better but is also healthier, softer, and free from common issues like itchiness and flakes.

To help you find the perfect fit without any guesswork, we've broken down some of the best beard care options by budget. You'll find that you don't always have to splurge to get effective results, but sometimes, a higher price tag comes with more concentrated, premium ingredients that can tackle tougher beard problems. It’s all about identifying what your beard truly needs. Is it extra moisture? A gentle formula for sensitive skin? Or a complete system to promote strong, healthy growth? From solid entry-level kits that cover the basics to mid-range workhorses and premium sets that deliver professional-level results, here’s how to get the most value for your money and give your beard the care it deserves.

Best Options Under $25

If you're looking for effective beard care that's easy on your wallet, you're in luck. There are some fantastic products in this price range that get the job done without compromise. A standout choice is the Viking Revolution Beard Wash & Conditioner Set. Infused with argan and jojoba oils, this set is highly rated for its ability to soften and nourish the beard while cleansing away dirt and grime. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone new to beard care or for guys who want a straightforward, no-fuss routine that keeps their beard looking and feeling healthy.

Mid-Range Sets That Deliver

Ready to step up your grooming game? The mid-range market is where you’ll find specialized formulas designed for specific beard types and concerns. If you have a particularly tough or thick beard, the Scotch Porter Moisturizing Beard Wash is a fantastic option. Its plant-based formula cleanses deeply while locking in essential moisture, making it a go-to for curly and coarse hair. For those with more sensitive skin, the Jack Black Beard Wash offers a gentle yet effective cleanse that won’t cause irritation. These products prove you can get targeted, high-quality care without venturing into luxury pricing.

When to Invest in a Premium Set

For the man who wants the absolute best for his beard, investing in a premium set is the way to go. These kits often feature higher concentrations of top-tier ingredients, like the nutrient-rich beef tallow in our own collections, for unmatched performance. Premium products are designed for deep conditioning and superior manageability, making them a worthy investment for serious beard enthusiasts. For a complete routine that nourishes both your beard and the skin underneath, The Full Swing Bundle provides everything you need for a softer, healthier, and perfectly styled beard. It’s the ultimate way to commit to your grooming and see transformative results.

Where to Find Deals on Beard Care Sets

Investing in a quality beard care routine doesn't mean you have to empty your wallet. With a little smart shopping, you can find great deals on top-tier products that keep your beard and skin healthy. The key is knowing where to look. Here are a few reliable ways to score the best prices on beard care sets.

Shop Directly from the Brand

One of the best ways to find a deal is to go straight to the source. Grooming brands often run exclusive promotions on their own websites that you won't find anywhere else. This is also how you guarantee you're getting authentic, high-quality products directly from the people who make them. Instead of buying each item separately, look for curated sets. You can often save a good amount by purchasing a complete kit like The Full Swing Bundle, which gives you everything you need in one shot. It’s a straightforward way to build your routine while keeping some cash in your pocket.

Save with Subscriptions

If you've found products you love and use regularly, a subscription service can be a game-changer. Many brands offer a discount, often between 15% and 25%, when you sign up for recurring deliveries. This not only saves you money in the long run but also ensures you never run out of your go-to beard wash or balm. It takes the guesswork out of reordering and keeps your grooming routine consistent without any extra effort. Companies like Badass Beard Care have built their model around kits and bundles, making it easy to stay stocked up on your essentials without paying full price every time.

Watch for Seasonal Sales

Patience can pay off, especially around holidays and major sales events like Black Friday. Brands frequently offer significant discounts during these times, making it the perfect opportunity to stock up or try something new. A great strategy is to sign up for the email newsletters of your favorite brands so you'll be the first to know when a sale drops. This way, you get insider access to deals before they're gone. Keep an eye on brand collections, as this is where you’ll often find bundled products at a reduced price, sometimes saving you up to 30%.

Related Articles

• Our 3 Best Beard and Face Wash Sets of 2026
• 8 Best Moisturizing Beard Washes for a Softer Beard
• The Ultimate Beard Balm and Wash Set Guide
• Natural Beard Wash and Conditioner: The Ultimate Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a dedicated beard conditioner really necessary after using a beard wash? Yes, it makes a huge difference. A beard wash is designed to clean away dirt and buildup, but the conditioning step is what truly softens coarse facial hair and replenishes moisture. Think of it this way: the wash cleans the canvas, and the conditioner (or a conditioning balm) provides the deep hydration that makes your beard manageable, less itchy, and feel great.

What makes beef tallow a good ingredient for beard care? Beef tallow is a powerhouse for skin and hair because it's packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K. Its composition is very similar to our skin's natural oils, so it absorbs easily to provide deep moisture without leaving a greasy feeling. This helps soften even the toughest beard hair and supports the skin underneath, which is the foundation for healthy growth.

My skin is really sensitive. Will a beard wash make it worse? The right beard wash should actually make it better. If you have sensitive skin, the key is to avoid products with harsh detergents like sulfates, which are common in regular shampoos and can cause irritation. A gentle, purpose-built beard wash will clean your beard effectively while soothing the skin underneath, helping to calm redness and itchiness.

How can I tell if I'm washing my beard too often? Your beard will let you know. If it starts to feel constantly dry, brittle, or straw-like, you're likely stripping away too many of its natural oils by washing too frequently. You might also notice more flakes or itchiness. It's all about finding a balance, so if you notice these signs, try cutting back your washing schedule to just a couple of times a week.

Can I use beard wash on short stubble, or is it only for long beards? You can and absolutely should. Using a quality beard wash from the very beginning helps care for the skin underneath your stubble. It keeps your pores clean and moisturizes the skin, which can significantly reduce the itchiness that comes with new growth. Starting with a healthy foundation is the best way to grow a great beard.