When it comes to maintaining facial hair, I’ve been there – from the scraggly, untamed beard to the elusive handlebar mustache I could never quite get right. I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to shape your facial hair into something presentable, let alone stylish. That’s where beard and mustache wax comes in, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute game-changer.
I’ve tried several products to manage my facial hair, and what I’ve learned is that the best beard and mustache waxes aren’t just about holding everything in place. They’re also about moisturizing, nourishing, and ultimately improving the health of your facial hair. In this post, I’m going to walk you through eight of the best beard and mustache waxes I’ve personally tested so you can find the one that fits your needs.
Too often, reviews of beard waxes throw out a bunch of product names without helping you understand what makes them great or which one is right for you. I want to make sure you leave here with more than just product recommendations. I’ll also guide you through the different types of waxes, balms, and oils, and give you tips on how to apply them like a pro.
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s talk a little about what you should be looking for when you’re in the market for beard and mustache wax. Here are six key things I’ve found crucial in choosing the right product.
1. The style you’re going for
The first question you need to ask yourself is, “What look am I going for?” Depending on your facial hair type, there are tons of styles you can achieve, and each requires a different kind of wax. Be realistic with what you’re working with, though. If your beard is thin, no wax will magically give you a full-on lumberjack look. But within reason, there’s plenty of room for creativity.
2. The hold
Once you know the style, the next big factor is the hold. I’ve experimented with waxes that range from light to super strong, and trust me, the hold is everything. If you’re trying to maintain a handlebar mustache, you’ll want something strong, like The Bearded Goon’s Ridiculously Strong Beard and Mustache Wax. For a shorter beard or a more casual look, you can opt for a light hold like Fisticuffs’ Cigar Blend Mustache Wax. Medium-hold waxes, such as Seven Potions’ Beard Wax, work perfectly for styling longer beards without making them feel too stiff.
3. Ingredients
As with any grooming product, you should pay close attention to the ingredients. I always look for natural, organic components. Jack Black’s Wax Pomade, for instance, contains tea tree oil and moringa, which not only help with styling but also improve the health of your hair. While synthetic ingredients like petroleum jelly can sometimes get the job done, I’ve found that natural waxes feel better and are better for your skin in the long run.
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4. Scent
The scent is something I didn’t think much about at first, but it’s surprisingly important. You don’t want your beard wax to clash with your cologne or be overpowering. I personally love the sandalwood and cedarwood scent of Seven Potions’ Beard Wax. But if you prefer something more neutral, you might want to try Jack Black’s Wax Pomade, which is unscented, or The Bearded Goon’s Wax with its mild earthy fragrance.
5. Color
Another factor that’s easy to overlook is the color of the wax. Some waxes come in a variety of shades, and it’s important to pick one that matches your hair color. For example, Firehouse Moustache Wax Wacky Tacky is pretty versatile, working well with a range of hair colors. However, if you have light-colored facial hair, be cautious with darker waxes as they might not blend as well.
6. Value
Lastly, let’s talk value. We all want to get the most bang for our buck. Some premium brands like Jack Black come with a higher price tag, but the quality is top-notch, so I’ve never regretted the investment. CanYouHandlebar’s Secondary Strong Hold Moustache Wax even offers a money-back satisfaction guarantee, which can give you peace of mind if you’re trying something new.
The 8 Best Beard and Mustache Waxes for Men
1. Best for longer beards, strong hold: The Bearded Goon’s Ridiculously Strong Beard and Handlebar Mustache Wax
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- 100% natural ingredients
- Incredibly strong hold
- Mild, light earthy scent
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men with long beards in need of a ridiculously strong hold
Overview: I’ve struggled with taming an unruly beard in the past, but The Bearded Goon’s Ridiculously Strong Beard and Mustache Wax came through for me in a big way. As the name suggests, this wax offers an extremely strong hold, and if your beard is as wild as mine once was, you’ll appreciate its power.
This product is perfect for anyone aiming for that rugged, woodsman look. Beyond the hold, it’s made with 100% natural ingredients, which is something I always look for. It includes shea butter, essential oils, pine tree resin, and lanolin, giving it a clear-ish color that works with most beard hues. I also love that it has a very mild earthy scent that fades quickly, making it great for men who don’t want their beard to carry a noticeable fragrance.
I’ve found that while you don’t get a massive amount of product in each tin, you won’t find a stronger wax out there. It works equally well for mustaches, especially if you’re trying to maintain a handlebar style.
The Good:
- It tames even the most stubborn beards
- Made with high-quality, natural ingredients
- The scent is gentle and non-intrusive
The Bad:
- The amount of wax per container is a bit low for the price
2. Best for medium-sized beards: Seven Potions Beard Wax
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Medium hold
- All-natural ingredients
- Conditions and protects the beard
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men with medium-sized beards
Overview: If you have a medium-length beard like me and want to add some style without making it look overdone, Seven Potions Beard Wax is an excellent option. This product offers a natural, medium hold, which allows for intricate styling while keeping your beard looking effortless.
I particularly appreciate the healthy ingredients in this formula, like coconut oil and organic jojoba wax, which not only hold your beard in place but also condition it, reducing beardruff and itchiness. Plus, the scent – a mix of sandalwood and cedarwood they call “Woodland Harmony” – is masculine and lasts throughout the day, which I personally love.
For me, Seven Potions’ Beard Wax is a true premium product. It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re serious about maintaining a healthy, stylish beard, the investment is well worth it.
The Good:
- Ideal for styling medium-sized beards
- Pleasant, long-lasting masculine scent
- Creamy texture makes application easy
The Bad:
- Some may find the price a bit steep
3. Best versatile: Jack Black Wax Pomade
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Organic ingredients and fragrance-free
- Great hold
- Versatile: Can be used for both beard and hair
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men looking for a versatile product
Overview: Jack Black’s Wax Pomade is one of my go-to products because of its versatility. Whether you’re styling your beard or hair, this pomade delivers. I like that it provides a flexible hold, allowing me to shape my beard in various ways while keeping it looking natural and frizz-free.
The ingredients are top-notch – Sage leaf, grapefruit peel oil, and sea kelp, among others – which not only help with styling but also nourish the hair, leaving it with a nice natural shine. While some might find it a bit oily, I’ve found that the texture works well for both beard and hair. Plus, since it’s fragrance-free, it’s ideal if you prefer not to add any scent to your grooming routine.
The Good:
- Provides a frizz-free, flexible hold
- Gives your beard a healthy shine
- Can be used for both beard and hair
The Bad:
- Some may find it a bit oily
4. Best for mustache: Mustache Wax by Mountaineer Brand
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Plant-based ingredients
- No petroleum
- Designed specifically for mustaches
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men who are all about the mustache
Overview: For mustache grooming, Mountaineer Brand’s Mustache Wax is a fantastic choice. The founder of Mountaineer Brand, Eric Young, knows his way around facial hair, and it shows in this product. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to give their mustache the attention it deserves.
What I love most about this wax is the all-natural formula – beeswax, grape seed oil, and shea butter – which not only holds your mustache in place but also hydrates and conditions the hair. While it’s designed for mustaches, I’ve found it doesn’t irritate the skin or leave a sticky residue.
The beeswax gives a strong hold that lets you experiment with even the most daring mustache styles, while the natural scent is subtle enough to blend with other grooming products. And best of all, it’s very affordable, so you won’t have to spend a fortune to look sharp.
The Good:
- Specially designed for mustache grooming
- All-natural ingredients provide moisture and hold
- Affordable price point
The Bad:
- The wax can be a bit hard to apply without warming it up first
5. Best for wild beards: Honest Amish Original Beard Wax
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Handmade product
- Very masculine scent
- Rich legacy and long-standing reputation
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men with wild, untamable beards
Overview: If you’re familiar with beard grooming, you’ve likely heard of Honest Amish, and there’s a good reason for that. The Honest Amish Original Beard Wax has been around since the 1970s, making it one of the oldest beard waxes available. This product has stood the test of time for a simple reason: it works. When my beard was at its wildest, this wax was one of the few products that could actually tame it.
Made with all-natural ingredients, including beeswax and butter, it provides excellent hold without relying on synthetic materials. It keeps your beard in check while conditioning the follicles, so you’re not just styling – you’re also improving the health of your facial hair.
The masculine scent is refined and natural, and I love that it doesn’t overpower, making it an easy choice for everyday use. The only downside? Sometimes getting the product out of the tin can be tricky, but once you’ve got it, you’ll see it’s well worth the effort.
The Good:
- Great for taming unruly beards
- Fantastic masculine scent
- Conditions hair follicles
The Bad:
- Can be a bit difficult to scoop out of the tin
6. Best unique fragrance: Fisticuffs Cigar Blend Mustache Wax
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Unique cigar-infused fragrance
- Soft texture
- Medium/light hold
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men who enjoy a masculine scent
Overview: Fisticuffs Cigar Blend Mustache Wax is a unique product that I stumbled upon when searching for something different. The scent immediately stood out – a rich blend of vanilla and cigar that offers a masculine vibe without being overwhelming.
Unlike many waxes, Fisticuffs has a softer texture, making it easy to apply with just a bit of warming between your fingers. It provides a medium-to-light hold, which is perfect if you’re looking for some control but don’t want your mustache or beard to feel stiff. If you’re into a more relaxed look, this wax will suit you well. That said, it may not be the best choice if you need a stronger hold for more intricate styles.
The Good:
- Unique scent that stands out
- Softens quickly and applies easily
- Doesn’t feel heavy or waxy
The Bad:
- The cigar scent isn’t for everyone
7. Best for versatile color: Firehouse Moustache Wax Wacky Tacky
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Long-lasting hold
- Handmade quality
- Works with any hair color
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men who struggle to find a wax that matches their hair color
Overview: Firehouse Moustache Wax Wacky Tacky is a wax I keep coming back to for its remarkable hold and versatility with different hair colors. Developed by a Mississippi fireman, John Pitts, this product has a legacy of its own. Pitts created it to tame the toughest of mustaches, and it doesn’t disappoint.
Wacky Tacky has a slightly darker color but lightens up once applied, making it suitable for nearly any hair color. Its beeswax-based formula delivers a firm hold that lasts all day, even in the most challenging weather conditions. Plus, it has a natural shine without feeling greasy, which is a big bonus.
What I love most about this wax is how little you need to get the job done. A small amount between your fingers is enough to shape your mustache or beard and keep it looking sharp all day long.
The Good:
- A little goes a long way
- Natural, clean shine
- Handmade with care
The Bad:
- Some may not like the consistency
8. Best natural tobacco scent: The Hairy Bastard All-Natural Hair and Beard Wax
What stands out about this beard and mustache wax:
- Tobacco scent
- Medium hold
- Non-greasy blend
The best beard and mustache wax for:
- Men with long beards that need styling
Overview: The Hairy Bastard All-Natural Hair and Beard Wax is another product I’ve had the pleasure of trying, and it’s the tobacco scent that really sets it apart. With hints of sun-baked tobacco, oak barrels, and earthy soil, this wax provides a rich, masculine fragrance that lasts.
It’s not just the scent that’s great – the medium hold is perfect for styling longer beards. I appreciate that it’s non-greasy, which means your beard stays looking natural without a heavy or shiny residue. Whether you’re going for a full, rugged look or something more sculpted, this wax gives you plenty of styling options.
What I also love about The Hairy Bastard’s wax is that it’s hand-crafted, which adds a personal touch to each tin. Plus, you have the option of choosing between 2-ounce or 4-ounce cans depending on your needs.
The Good:
- Balanced medium hold
- Rich, unique tobacco scent
- Non-greasy, natural shine
The Bad:
- Not everyone will appreciate the tobacco fragrance
How We Chose the Best Beard & Mustache Waxes
Our goal with any of our reviews is to give you a clear, useful guideline for making informed buying decisions. While it’s impossible to personally test every beard and mustache wax on the market, I’ve done thorough research, combined with my personal experience and the feedback of countless others, to compile a list that will help point you in the right direction. The aim is to save you time and help you find the best product suited for your grooming needs.
What’s the Difference Between Beard Wax and Mustache Wax?
You might be wondering: “What’s the actual difference between beard wax and mustache wax?” To be honest, the differences are subtle. Both types of wax share a lot of similar ingredients, but the main distinction comes down to their purpose and texture.
- Beard wax is typically softer and provides conditioning elements for your beard, helping tame the hair while also nourishing it.
- Mustache wax, on the other hand, tends to have a firmer consistency and a stronger hold. This makes it perfect for shaping more structured mustache styles like handlebars or curls.
Another key difference is the main ingredient. Most mustache waxes rely heavily on beeswax and, in some cases, pine resin for that firm hold. These natural ingredients help keep the mustache in place without the harsh chemicals you’ll find in other styling products.
How to Correctly Apply Beard Wax in 8 Easy Steps
Using beard wax properly can make a huge difference in how your beard looks and feels. After trying out various techniques myself, I’ve broken down the application process into eight simple steps:
1. Clean your beard:
Start by washing your beard with a quality beard shampoo or wash. It’s essential to remove any dirt, dead skin cells, or excess oils to create a fresh base for the wax.
2. Dry your beard completely:
Moisture in your beard will prevent the wax from holding properly. I always make sure my beard is fully dry before applying any product.
3. Brush your beard:
Using a beard brush, preferably made from boar’s hair, helps remove stray hairs and detangles the beard. This step is key to giving your beard that smooth, well-groomed look.
4. Scoop a small amount of wax:
A little goes a long way, especially if you’re new to beard wax. You can always add more later if needed, but start small.
5. Apply the wax evenly:
Rub the wax between your palms to soften it, then apply it to one side of your beard, working it in until it feels smooth. Repeat on the other side.
6. Shape with a comb:
After applying the wax, use a beard comb to shape the hair in the direction you want it to go. This step gives your beard structure and ensures the wax is distributed evenly.
7. Apply wax to the front:
Don’t forget the front of your beard. Again, use a comb to shape the hairs and lock everything into place.
8. Clean up:
Wipe away any excess wax with a hand towel.
How to Apply Mustache Wax in 5 Simple Steps
Applying mustache wax is a little different, but the concept remains the same – control and consistency are key.
1. Warm the wax:
Mustache wax can be quite firm when you first open the tin, so it’s best to warm it up. I use a hairdryer to soften it quickly, but you can also leave it on a warm surface.
2. Scoop a small amount:
Once the wax is softened, scoop a small quantity out with your thumb and forefinger.
3. Apply from the center outwards:
Start applying the wax at the center of your mustache and work outward. I prefer using both hands for even application, but you can use just one if that’s more comfortable.
4. Smooth the wax:
Make sure the wax is evenly distributed by rubbing out any clumps.
5. Reapply if needed:
Depending on how unruly your mustache is, you may need to add a little more wax throughout the day to keep everything in place.
How Is Beard/Mustache Wax Different Than Beard Oil and Beard Balm?
It’s important to know the difference between these grooming products to ensure you’re using the right one for your needs.
- Beard and mustache wax: As mentioned, these products focus primarily on hold. They’re designed to keep your beard or mustache in place and protect it from harsh weather conditions by forming a barrier.
- Beard oil: This is all about conditioning and moisturizing. Beard oil softens the facial hair and the skin underneath, preventing dryness and beardruff. It’s great for making your beard look fuller and shinier but doesn’t offer much in the way of hold.
- Beard balm: Consider beard balm a hybrid of wax and oil. It contains conditioning elements like oils and butter (such as shea or cocoa butter) but also provides a light hold thanks to a small amount of beeswax. It’s ideal if you want to shape your beard while keeping it soft and manageable.
Conclusion
That wraps up our deep dive into the world of beard and mustache waxes. I hope this guide helps you choose the best product for your grooming needs. Remember, whether you’re going for a rugged woodsman look or a sleek, styled mustache, the right wax can make all the difference. If you have any questions or want to share your experiences with beard or mustache waxes, feel free to drop a comment – I’d love to hear from you!
