How to Clean Rugged Facial Hair

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Your facial hair can be both a blessing and a curse -- when properly cleaned, it can make a visible statement about your personal style; when left unwashed, however, it can accumulate dirt and skin particles, which can cause skin blemishes make you look unintentionally sloppy. You can avoid the skin irritation and blemishes associated with unclean facial hair by committing to a regular grooming regimen. Although many men prefer to use specialty products for cleaning facial hair, you can just as easily opt for ordinary shampoos and conditioners to keep your beard in top condition.

Clean Shaven Style

Step 1

Wash your face in a shower, bath or sink. Use hot, soapy water to open your pores and cleanse the skin.

Step 2

Squeeze a quarter-sized portion of mild shampoo or beard shampoo into the palm of your hand.

Step 3

Rub your palms together to spread the product, then massage the shampoo into the facial hair with gentle, circular motions.

Step 4

Work the shampoo into a thick lather over your beard, mustache, neck and sideburns. Keep your mouth closed during the entire process to avoid ingesting the shampoo.

Step 5

Rinse the shampoo from the facial hair with fresh, hot water to remove dirt, oils, food and skin particles that become trapped in facial hairs.

Step 6

Squeeze a quarter-sized portion of conditioner into your hand and rub your palms together.

Step 7

Massage the conditioner into the facial hairs, then thoroughly rinse it out with hot water.

Step 8

Dry the facial hair with a clean, soft towel. Never use a dirty towel, which transfer dirt and bacteria to your beard and skin.

Step 9

Comb through the beard in the direction of hair growth with a wide-tooth comb to remove and prevent tangles.