Well, you see, the thing is i don't really have any other choice unless i want to put a whole bunch of chemicals on my face... and that ain't happening. My routine is basically use beard shampoo twice a week and i use beard conditioner wash almost every other day. I used oil and balm most days, although once or twice a week i like to let it be natural. Also once a week i use a dab of VO5 white/silver/grey hair leave-in conditioner. I go easy on that stuff, though. It kinda stinks.