For many people, self-care is a priority that they make sure to practice every day, from investing in the most effective skincare products and diligently using them for a perfect complexion, regular hair, and nail appointments to more targeted procedures with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. We all want to look our best and will put in the hard work to do it. Men are no exception, with an almost thirty percent increase in men getting Botox treatments since 2010. Men aren't just concerned with clear complexions and reducing fine lines and wrinkles either. For many men, taking care of their beards requires more time than women spend on their hair, lashes, or brows. Whether you're just starting to grow your beard and looking for ways to make it thicker and more lustrous or already have a beard, but it's not as soft and manicured as your like, there are some rules to follow. Please keep reading for tips on how to grow your best beard and maintain it.

Regular Washing

In the same way, you want to wash and massage your hair and scalp to promote new growth on your head, the same should be done for your beard. While using your regular hair shampoo on your beard is okay, be mindful of how your skin reacts to it. Some shampoos may dry out the skin underneath your beard, so if you notice that happening, invest in a moisturizing shampoo specifically made for beards. In addition to promoting growth through regular beard washing, shampooing your beard also removes any debris in your beard, softens your beard hairs, and keeps the hair healthy. Beard hairs can break the same as your hair's head.

Comb Through

You also want to make sure you're combing your beard after washing and on the days in between when you don't wash your facial hair. Combing through your beard with a comb specifically designed for beards is ideal, but if you're on a budget, you can also use a traditional fine-toothed comb. Combing your beard will also stimulate new growth, which over time, will give your beard a fuller and thicker appearance.

Moisturize Your Beard

Investing in high-quality beard oil is one of the most important things you can do for your beard's health and overall appearance. Beard oils not only moisturize your beard and give a beautiful appearance but are also formulated with ingredients specific to your beard goals. If you're still working on growing your beard, a beard growth oil should be your best friend during this time. It will nourish your hair and skin, promote healthy growth and prevent the dreaded "new beard itch" that occurs while you're growing it in. Say you've already gotten your facial hair at the desired level; the right conditioning oil can make or break your beard's appearance. Some men swear, but items that can be found in the cupboard like coconut oil, but most beard enthusiasts will tell you they've got an oil specifically formulated for beards they swear by.

Regular Appointments

If you've ever had long hair, you know the importance of getting it trimmed every six to eight weeks. On the other end of the spectrum, if you keep your hair looking sharp and close to your head, you're likely to see your barber or stylist every two to three weeks based on the summer look you're going for. The same is true for your beard. You want to find a barber that understands men's hair and how to trim a beard appropriately and once you do - treat that relationship like gold. Just like your hair is one of the first things people see when they meet you, so is your beard. Keeping regular appointments to trim and manicure your beard is preferred by those who don't feel comfortable cutting away at their own beard. While there are video tutorials online, beard trimming is an art that takes time to master.

Caring for your beard can be intimidating, especially if you're new to the club. Following the above-outlined steps to growth and maintenance, you'll have a leg up on the guys who are just winging it. While beards are an investment, you'll see a strong turn on your investment with the confidence and appeal your beard brings into your life.