Are you fed up with the ever-increasing amount of gray hairs creeping into your beard and mustache? Is that salt-and-pepper look now mostly salt? Still trying to convince yourself your gray looks “distinguished”? Are little children calling you “Santa” and asking if they can read you their Christmas list? Worry not! We are here to spice up your appearance with some practical beard and mustache coloring ideas.
A man’s beard reflects his sense of style and self care. A well-groomed beard can look sharp and ready for dating or convey an entrepreneurial spirit and a touch of class. While a longer beard can give one a bit of an edge, creating perhaps an artsy or roguish appearance. And before the gray started to set in, it had additional benefits, such as strengthening one’s jawline for a strong, more handsome profile.
But now: GRAY. Instead of looking suave or roguish, now you’re looking a bit, well, old. And every day, the gray advances a little bit more. Oh yes, make no mistake – it will soon take over your mustache and beard if you let it. When this happens, many men make a terrible mistake: they SHAVE. Maybe this has happened to you: you know, that stunned look from your significant other as you come into the room, freshly shaven, your beard and mustache gone, the manliness shaved right off your face! And they force a smile and tell you you look good, even though truth be told, they now think you look WAY less handsome. Arrgh!
Fortunately, lads, there is another way. A way you can keep your handsome beardy look while still retaining a youthful and sharp appearance.
Today, there are a lot of quick and easy options for dyeing the beard that can enhance your appearance. This guide will show you how to dye your beard properly, or even better, how to color your mustache and beard without beard dye – and step out with a bold and more youthful appearance.
Two Popular Beard Coloring Options
Though there are a few other options in the market to color your beard, men usually choose between these two most trusted methods:
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Traditional Dye
This method is exactly the same as regular hair dye. You get a kit that includes a color base, developer, vinyl gloves, and an applicator brush.
If you want a long-lasting result with a uniform beard look, it is a good choice. Most dyes are permanent or semi-permanent, meaning they penetrate the hair follicles, strip out the natural coloration, and replace it with the colorant in the dye. But if you have sensitive skin, or are concerned about putting harsh chemicals directly on your face or up your nose (yes, you are quite literally breathing straight ammonia for several minutes during the process,) dyes may not be for you.
As well, if you have a busy lifestyle, or lack the patience to deal with the time-consuming dyeing process, it may not be the best choice as it requires time and effort, a shower, and clean-up – not to mention the experience of breathing those acrid chemicals directly up your nose for a minimum for five minutes during the dyeing process. Yes, you are applying dye directly to your mustache and beard, and that ammonia stench is going right up into your sensitive nasal membranes.
Another problem with dyes is the uniform look. We’ve all seen someone and right away noticed “dye job.” That’s because their hair color is unnaturally intense or too uniform. In real life, hair color varies all over your face and head.
But the biggest negative is that many drugstore mustache and beard dye, including the most popular brands, all use a similar formulation that use harsh chemicals that can cause skin rash, hives, blisters, allergic reactions, welts, sores, or even worse. Some of these chemicals include:
- PPD – Made from coal tar, a petrochemical that includes benzene and napthalene
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Strips color away, alters hair structure and makes hair brittle over time
- Ammonia: Opens up the cuticle so the dye can penetrate. Can cause burns, skin and lung irritation
- Lead Acetate: Banned in Canada and the EU, a lead product that gradually darkens with repeated use
- DMDM Hydantoin: A preservative that release formaldehyde, causes tissue irritation
- Resorcinol: A benzene variant used in glue, can cause skin irritation, rash, heart irregularities… and far worse
That’s a lot of negatives! The good news is for many, they work fine; they are relatively cost-effective and results last a long time, usually 4-6 weeks before the color starts to fade noticeably in most cases.
- Brush-On Temporary Beard Color
In 2011, Blackbeard for Men introduced the world’s first instant, brush-on, hypoallergenic beard color for men as a direct competitor to harsh beard dyes. Blackbeard for Men Formula X is the original, patented cosmetic beard color product. This means that unlike a dye, it is temporary, not permanent (color generally lasts around 8-12 hours before it fades.)
Instant, brush-on beard color is a modern alternative offering a quick and convenient solution for men looking to cover their gray quickly and easily, without the hassle, mess, or skin irritation of dyeing their mustache and beard. Blackbeard for Men comes in a .40-fl oz. tube with a brush applicator and is hypoallergenic. Each tube lasts up to 45 applications, depending on the fullness of the mustache and beard and the amount of gray.
Because this is an instant, temporary, brush-on product, it is recommended for beards up to 3” in length. For longer beards with a significant amount of gray, your best bet may be a gentle, henna-based dye, simply because applying Blackbeard for Men may not be as quick and economical as it would be for someone with, say, a neatly trimmed mustache and goatee.
Step-by-Step: How to Dye Your Beard The Traditional Way
If you decide to go with traditional beard dye, you should follow the right process for safe and even results. Here are the steps for what you need to do:
Step 1: Choose the Right Brand
There are many competing brands, many of which offer similar formulations. Read user reviews and try to find one that is gentle and has a minimum of the harsh chemical ingredients listed above which may cause rash or skin reactions or skin irritation. We recommend looking at all-natural or organic henna dyes in particular, since these tend to have far fewer skin reactions and can look very good. They may be a little more expensive, but remember, you’re applying this directly to your hair and skin.
One thing to be aware of is that with a henna dye, dark shades in particular may take several applications before the color intensity is dark enough. There is also some concern that henna shades may lean a bit reddish, so make sure to check out the user reviews.
2. Shade
Now that you’ve selected a beard dye brand, choose the right color that complements your natural hair. Experts recommend going one or two shades lighter than your natural color for a natural finish. If you select a too dark shade, it can make your beard look unnatural. And if you select an overly light shade, it can make your beard look patchy and washed out.
Remember, you get one shot at this – if your dye job doesn’t go well, you may be forced to shave (!) and wait for your mustache and beard to regrow before trying again. Something to keep in mind…
Step 3: Patch Test & Prep
Before applying the dye, perform a patch test on a small area of skin at least 24 hours before use to check for any allergic reaction. Note that with the typical drugstore beard dye brands, often men can use them several times with no harsh side effects. But then after a month or so, your skin may cry out “No more!” So it’s important to test every time. Many men report skin irritation or negative reactions only after using the popular drugstore beard dye for several applications.
On the day of application, wash your beard thoroughly to remove oils and dirt. PRO TIP: apply petroleum jelly around the edges of your mustache and beard, and on your lips, to prevent staining your skin.
Step 4: Apply Evenly
Now mix the dye according to instructions. Yes, it smells like ammonia! That’s because it IS. Important: put on the gloves and use the applicator brush to apply the dye evenly across your beard. You may also wish to cover your bathroom counter with newspaper or a dropcloth to prevent staining.
You should work the dye into all areas for uniform coverage. Don’t forget the corners of your jaw! That’s the giveaway many men miss. Take your time to avoid missed spots and comb through gently to spread the color.
Step 5: Rinse or Blend & Style
After the recommended processing time (usually 5-30 minutes), jump in the shower and rinse the dye out with lukewarm water until it runs clear. Then take a big deep breath and be thankful you don’t have to breathe that acrid stench for any longer!
For a natural finish, blend the edges into your sideburns and hairline. Towel-dry, then style your beard as usual. You may wish to use an old towel, since there may still be some smudging or color transfer from the dyeing process.
Step 6: Aftercare to Keep Your Beard Bold
Your job doesn’t end once the dye is rinsed out. Aftercare is equally important to keep your beard looking sharp for longer.
For that purpose, use a gentle beard shampoo and conditioner to keep the hair soft. You can also apply beard oil to hydrate both the beard and the skin underneath, as well as to add a bit of sheen which the beard dye strips out. With the right routine, your color will last longer, and your beard will stay bold and healthy.
Note that while the beard dye may be “permanent” or “semi-permanent,” your beard will continue to grow. And depending on how much gray you have, you may notice gray (or white) roots in as little as a few days after dyeing your beard. Few men want to repeat that whole wretched beard dye process every week, so many men use a brush-on color product like Blackbeard for Men Formula X, or a women’s root concealer, to hide their gray roots. This can extend the time between dye jobs significantly.
How to Color Your Beard with a Brush-On Color in 3 Quick Steps
So there are all the pros and cons of dyeing your mustache and beard. Now if you want a quicker and safer option, brush-on beard color, like Blackbeard for Men Formula X, is the easiest method. This is a topical product, unlike hair dye which penetrates the skin, meaning it is much better tolerated by most men and has far fewer allergic reactions. And best of all, it applies quickly, in around a minute, with no hassle or chemical stench, unlike with a dye.
Here is how it works:
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Open the Bottle
The color comes ready-to-use in a tube with a built-in brush. You do not need to do any mixing or use gloves.
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Apply Directly to Beard, Mustache, and Sideburns
Use the brush to apply the color to your beard, mustache, sideburns, or eyebrows. You need to focus mainly on areas with gray or patchiness. Build up the color intensity gradually until it looks good. Wipe any mistakes with a tissue.
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Blend and Go
Brush through for even coverage and a natural finish. The color dries quickly, and once it’s set, you can comb and style as usual.
Results of this method typically last 8–12 hours, which is enough to keep you looking sharp all day. And if you need a touch-up, just carry the bottle with you.
There are several other advantages to using instant beard color versus dyes:
- Redefine your jawline. A dye can only color the hair. But Blackbeard for Men Formula X, for example, can redraw your jawline to be stronger, emphasize or even create a cleft chin, and minimize the appearance of saggy jowls.
- More natural looking. Dyes have a very uniform, often artificial look, and can make the hair look brittle. Blackbeard for Men allows for color variance and does not affect hair texture or health.
- Leave some gray. Unlike with a dye, with Blackbeard for Men you can leave a bit of gray wherever you like. No one will ever suspect you’re coloring your mustache and beard – they’ll just think you look younger and more dynamic.
- Fills gaps. Another thing dyes cannot do. If you’ve got a spotty or patchy beard, Blackbeard for Men can fill in those sections. Create a great stubble look in seconds by applying Blackbeard for Men and then blend with a beard brush.
- Good for eyebrows, too. You don’t want beard dye anywhere near your eyebrows. But Blackbeard for Men can not only wipe out the gray instantly, but you can redraw your eyebrows if need be. As we age, and gray encroaches, the shape of our eyebrows changes. Restore your youthful appearance with Blackbeard for Men in literally one or two swipes.
Blackbeard for Men: A Faster Way to Color Your Beard
If you want the bold and confident look of a freshly colored beard without the hassle of traditional dyes, Blackbeard for Men is the ideal choice.
Unlike chemical-based dyes, Blackbeard for Men offers patented and hypoallergenic brush-on beard color that apply in seconds. These colors are water-resistant and generally considered to be safe for sensitive skin.
Founded in 2011, Blackbeard for Men has earned the trust of thousands of customers worldwide who appreciate its simplicity and natural finish. With multiple shades available, you can find the perfect match for your hair color.
Conclusion
Now you know how to color the beard with confidence, from selecting the right shade to applying it safely and keeping it well-maintained. Whether you prefer the lasting results of traditional dye or the quick convenience of a brush-on solution, the right choice depends on your lifestyle.
Remember, dyeing your beard is more than a grooming routine. It’s a way to refresh your appearance and project confidence.
With proper care and modern options like Blackbeard for Men, achieving a natural and bold look has never been easier.
Take control of your style today and let your beard reflect the confident and assertive version of you.
FAQs
Should I dye my beard if I have sensitive skin?
You can dye your beard even if you have sensitive skin, but choose a hypoallergenic solution like brush-on beard color or a gentle henna dye to avoid irritation from harsh chemicals. Please also consult with your doctor before using any products that apply directly to your skin or hair.
Can I use regular hair dye on my beard?
It’s not recommended. Beard hair is coarser, and facial skin is more sensitive than the scalp. Always use products designed specifically for beards to avoid irritation and uneven results.
Is brush-on beard color safe for daily use?
Products from trusted brands like Blackbeard for Men are designed for daily application and are safe for skin and hair.
