DIY Mustache Wax Recipe - Simple But In-Depth Guide

Photographer: Greg Anderson

Finding a mustache wax that works for your whiskers can be challenging.

There are waxes that make mustache firm and the ones that make it soft and more manageable.

Even if you manage to find the one that suits you, there’s a great possibility it’s not made of natural ingredients.

Knowing that artificial ingredients can damage your facial hair, you probably want to skip those.

And if, by any chance, you do find a natural mustache wax, it’s so expensive you need to pay a fortune for just a few ounces.

That’s why more and more men decide to save their time, energy and money and just make their own ‘stache wax.

More ounces of wax, the option to choose only the natural ingredients and pay less and simple making process. Yes, please.

In the following extensive DIY guide, we’ll break down all the ingredients you need for a large quantities of mustache wax and how to make it step-by-step in no time.

You’ll also find a few of our true and tested recipes.

Let’s go!

What Is Mustache Wax

A mustache wax refers to a stiff pomade that you can apply to your mustache, grooming it by holding the hair securely in place. It holds the hair, specifically those at the extremities.

It also features restorative properties that are essential once the length of your facial hair increases. This mustache wax often has a scent. You can also find a product pigmented with dyes.

Some mustache waxes, especially the high-end ones, tend to produce darker shades by combining different versions of iron oxide. You also have to know that the specific stiffness and strength of mustache wax that you need will depend on the specific length of your mustache as well as your preferred style.

Benefits of Using a Mustache Wax

Provides a Desired Holding Effect

A high-quality mustache wax offers the advantage of giving you your desired holding effect. Keep in mind that depending on your preferred style and the length of your mustache hair, you can use a mustache with the right grade and firmness. You can create a natural look by going for mustache waxes with loose holds or a more dramatic look by choosing those with tight and stiff holds.

Trains Facial Hair Over Your Lips

Growing a mustache or facial hair might also cause you to deal with hair getting into your mouth. Just like others, you may find it irritating. Some even get so irritated that they believe that trimming their mustache or shaving with cartridge razors entirely is the best solution. You can deal with this problem with the help of mustache wax. This product lets you train hair over your lips, preventing them from getting in your mouth.

Soothes Skin

Another great advantage of mustache wax is that it soothes your skin. It is mainly because this product contains both oil and wax. With such a combination, it can provide your facial hair with the holding power it needs. An added benefit is that both the oil and wax soothe your skin and offer a sort of barrier, protecting your skin from possible irritation that might be caused by new hair growth.

How Does Mustache Wax Work

How Does Mustache Wax Work

A high-quality mustache wax should be one of the most important products in a man’s beard grooming kit. Note that all hair strands have a specific direction they prefer to grow. There are those that want to go counter-clockwise while others want to swirl clockwise. You will also notice some facial hair growing straight out, left, or right.

It can be kind of disappointing, especially if you want the hair to grow in the specific direction and length you prefer. You can prevent yourself from dealing with such a disappointment with the aid of mustache wax. This product works by forcing your facial hair to go in the uniform direction you prefer.

All you have to do is to apply wax on a damp hair repeatedly and on purpose. You have to do it every day until your mustache hairs get into the habit of going to the direction you want. Use it for the first three months of growing your mustache, so the product will work to its best advantage.

Pros and Cons of Using Mustache Wax

Pros

  • Gives you several options for styling your facial hair
  • Makes your regular mustache more defined
  • Provides your facial hair with more heft and volume
  • Hydrates, nourishes, and conditions your beard
  • Makes the process of grooming your beard a lot easier

Cons

  • Some low-quality mustache waxes might cause allergies or irritation. This is the reason why you have to choose the best mustache wax with all-natural ingredients as much as possible.

Ingredients for Homemade Mustache Wax

There are basically three different types of mustache wax on the market today based on hardness. 

The first is made with carrier oils, the second one is made with petroleum jelly and the last ones are made with resins.

All three types contain beeswax as the primary base, so let’s see how these three different ingredients affect the quality of the mustache wax so you can decide which one works best for you.

Carrier Oils 

Carrier oils are commonly used in beard balms, beard oils, and beard waxes.

This being said, make sure to read the list of ingredients when purchasing a beard balm, oil or wax. The ones that should make it to your list are the ones made with organic and natural ingredients.

Carrier oils are used for giving the mustache some texture and help in keeping the essential oils in the wax a more diverse mixture.

By spreading out the essential oils, the scent/fragrance will be more evenly spread out and not concentrated in one location.

While there are dozens of carrier oils to choose from, a few of the more commonly used are sweet almond and coconut oil.

These fatty oils are both derived from plants and excellent for the skin in addition to providing medium hold and a softer beard.

Petroleum Jelly

One of the most popular ingredients is petroleum jelly.

The reason for its popularity is the fact that it is extremely easy to work with, is readily available in any store, and melts at a very low temperature.

The distinct texture of petroleum jelly makes it very easy to spread throughout the mustache, and it also mixes very well with the beeswax.

To avoid overwhelming your sense of smell from the fragrances, always purchase unscented petroleum jelly.

Resins

Resins Provide Stiff Hold & Harder Feel

Resins provide the superior hold you want and in order to use them, you first have to melt them.

Many guys who placed the resin in a pot or pan quickly discovered they it destroyed the pot.

In order to melt the resins, they need to be placed in another solution like petroleum jelly or essential oils.

Resins are very tricky to work with at first and this is one part of the reason many waxes completely omit the resin as an ingredient.

Only use resin if you want to have the stiffest and the hardest mustache; otherwise, you can get by with beeswax and petroleum jelly.

Dink Gum

Dink gum is one of the best ingredients you can use in your homemade mustache wax. It is an edible gum, which is also a resin extracted from the axle wood tree. One great thing about this ingredient is that it is highly viscous.

This specific trait is the reason behind the ingredient’s glue-like consistency. It is also sticky in the sense that it remains consistent even if you are in a humid condition. With that, it is the key ingredient for stiff DIY mustache wax.

Carnauba Wax

Another fantastic ingredient you can use for your DIY homemade mustache wax is carnauba wax. This ingredient is the one being used in polishing your car, so expect to see it being one of the ingredients in auto shine waxes.

Carnauba wax is taken from a Brazilian palm tree. This wax is a great ingredient for homemade mustache waxes because of its strong hold and a nice shine. Consider using it, especially if you intend to make your mustache wax firmer.

Beeswax

Naturally found in beehives, beeswax is another key ingredient in most DIY mustache waxes. It is a great addition to your DIY product because of its conditioning benefits. Aside from that, it is capable of providing structure to any surface it comes in contact with, making it work incredibly well when used in mustache waxes.

Beeswax

Jojoba Oil

You can also use jojoba oil when making your mustache wax. It serves as a wax that tends to have a higher level of stability when exposed to high temperatures. Another advantage of jojoba oil is that it makes the DIY wax last longer. It is because of the good shelf life of the oil.

It also makes the wax easier to spread and apply on your skin. Jojoba oil also serves as a good emollient. By adding this oil into the wax, the result will have properties designed to nourish and soothe your skin.

Fragrance of Mustache Wax

In order to give your wax a unique scent, you must add the essential oils. It is important to use them sparingly until you find the one you like.

For one, some essential oils could irritate the skin, while others could have a scent that is too overwhelming for your liking.

In order to find a scent that matches your character, consider pine or sandalwood. Tea tree oils have medical benefits like soothing the skin and eliminating dandruff.

Tools Needed for Homemade Mustache Wax

Before you can begin mixing your wax, start gathering your cooking and storing tools.

Collect transfer and measuring tools, candle making vat, funnel, eyedropper, transfer pipette, a kitchen scale, cooking vat and storage containers.

The majority of mustache waxes are bought in round tins and they range from .25 oz to 8 oz.

Aside from gathering some important ingredients for your DIY mustache wax, it is also advisable to have the following tools that you might need during the process:

Pipette

It refers to a disposable dropper, which is vital in preventing cross-contamination when using essential and carrier oils. You need a few of these pipettes since using just a single dropper for all the oils you intend to use on your DIY wax recipes might cause them to produce a foul smell and become muddy.

Kitchen Pot

A kitchen pot is also an essential tool for the mustache wax making process. You can use it to melt and mix beeswax into your chosen essential and carrier oils.

Shallow Tin Can

These tin cans are optional tools, though, it is highly recommended to have them around. Fortunately, these tin cans are inexpensive. You can also use the old and empty tin cans of mustache waxes you have at home. Just make sure to scrub them deeply before use.

Top 5 Homemade Mustache Wax Recipes

Top 5 Homemade Mustache Wax Recipes

All-Organic Ingredients

To make the best DIY mustache wax, it would be ideal for you to use all-natural ingredients. It is highly recommended to go all-natural to prevent the wax from having any harsh chemicals and causing unwanted side effects.

You need the following for this specific recipe:

  • Beeswax
  • Coconut oil
  • Vaseline
  • Stove
  • Glass jar
  • Container

Instructions:

  • Put the beeswax and coconut oil in the glass jar you have prepared and mix the two ingredients together. Put the jar in a furnace with the goal of melting the wax.
  • After mixing the wax and oil well and completely melting the mixture, stir in a bit of Vaseline. Stir gradually and make sure that the added Vaseline is well-mixed into the wax.
  • Once well-mixed, pour it into a container. Let it cool down for around thirty minutes. After that, the wax is ready for use.

Coconut Oil, Beeswax and Essential Oils

Combining coconut oil, beeswax, and some essential oils is also a fantastic way to have your own homemade mustache wax. Here are the things you need for this recipe:

  • Coconut oil
  • Beeswax
  • Essential oils
  • Mixing bowl
  • Metal pot
  • Pan

Instructions:

  • Create a double boiler using the mixing bowl and metal pot. Put the mixing bowl in a pan, so you can slowly melt the wax.
  • After putting the bowl in a pan, add around two tablespoons of beeswax. Let the pan heat a bit. Allow the beeswax to liquefy, too.
  • Pour coconut oil, around a couple of scoops of it, into the beeswax that has already melted and liquefied.
  • Wait for the mixture to be well-mixed and completely liquefied. Once that happens, pour it into a container or jar.
  • Pour essential oils (around two drops) into the pot or container. Leave it to cool down for around forty-five minutes. After that, you can expect the wax to be firmer and more robust, making it ready for use.

Beeswax and Mustard Oil

Another great recipe for mustache wax makes use of beeswax and mustard oil. One advantage of this recipe is that it is quick and easy to prepare, plus the mustard oil used in it has plenty of benefits, such as better hair growth. Here are the things you need:

  • Beeswax
  • Mustard oil
  • Container
  • Stove

Instructions:

  • Use a double boiler to melt the beeswax. All you have to do is to put the boiler in an electric oven or a stove.
  • After completely melting the wax, pour mustard oil into it. Make sure to use equal proportions. If you notice that the oil does not heat well with the beeswax, it is advisable to reheat it. Doing so will produce better results.
  • Pour the melted mixture into the prepared container. Let the wax cool down for around seven to eight minutes, giving it enough time to solidify. After that, you can readily use it.

Vaseline and Beeswax

Mustache wax can also be prepared at home using Vaseline and beeswax. It is a quick and easy mustache wax recipe that you can make using the following:

  • Beeswax
  • Vaseline
  • Essential oils
  • Can
  • Boiling pot

Instructions:

  • Prepare the boiling pot and put the beeswax and Vaseline in there.
  • Boil this mixture entirely. Wait for it to liquefy, too.
  • Once it boils and liquefies, pour your chosen essential oils. These oils can add scents to the wax.
  • Pour it into the can you prepared. Leave it for a few minutes to cool down.
  • Once it cools, you can put it on your mustache.

Most Affordable Option

If you are looking for an inexpensive mustache wax recipe, then you can make one using just beeswax and coconut oil. Stick to the 1:2 coconut oil and beeswax ratio.

Instructions:

  • Mix two tablespoons of beeswax and one tablespoon of coconut oil together in a bowl.
  • Put the bowl in your stove so the mixture will be heated up. This will melt the mixture. Continue stirring to ensure that the resulting mixture becomes smooth.
  • Once the dough liquefies, transfer it to a new container. Do so right away to prevent it from hardening. Let it cool down before starting to use it.

How to Make Mustache Wax

  • Beeswax pellets
  • Coconut oil or Petroleum Jelly or Resins (depending on your wax type)
  • Essential oils
  • Storage tins

Your Natural Planet Beeswax

 

Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

 

The steps that you have to take when preparing a homemade mustache wax will depend on the ingredients that you intend to use. The most basic steps involved in the process, though, are the following:

Step 1 – Take the recommended measurements of ingredients

These include carrier oil, essential oil, beeswax or any other ingredient you plan to use.

Step 2 – Put the beeswax in a pot

Then place the pot in an oven with medium-low heat. Let the mixture melt completely while stirring occasionally. Make sure to monitor the melting wax. It is because you have to avoid overexposing it to direct heat for an extremely long period as it might result in burning.

Step 3 – After melting the wax, add the essential oils and carrier oils

Stir for around ten seconds. You can then remove it from direct heat. Pour the wax into tins right away. Do not wait for a long time to transfer the melted wax into the tins as it might only cause it to harden.

Step 4 – Allow the wax to cool down or settle for a bit

After completely dissipating the heat, put lids on top of the tins. The wax will then be ready for use.

How to Use a Mustache Wax

Step 1 – Scrape a small amount and massage it into the mustache

Now that you have your wax solidified in the tins, it is time to start using it. Simply use your fingers to remove a small amount of the wax and gently massage it into the mustache. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.

If you are trying to tame frizzy facial hair, then you will need more wax in the mustache. The key here is finding oils that you are comfortable with because you will be smelling the fragrance during the day.

Step 2 – Choose a subtle fragrance

If it gets overwhelming, cut back on the amount of oil or choose a fragrance that is more subtle.

Do’s and Don’ts With Homemade Mustache Wax

Do’s

  • Experiment with essential oils. Use any essential oil for your mustache wax. The most recommended ones, though, are bergamot and cedarwood. Try adding any essential oil you want as it can further maximize the benefits of your DIY mustache wax.
  • Use carnauba wax in place of beeswax. Carnauba wax is a great alternative to beeswax in case you can’t use it for your DIY mustache wax. Just make sure to add twice as much of it as the beeswax to prevent the oil ratio from dwindling.
  • Monitor the melting process. Make sure that you are around to keep track of the melting process.
    It is also advisable to stir the mixture every now and then. The best mustach
    e or beard wax should be easy to spread across hair and you can achieve that by monitoring the melting process.

Don’ts

  • Don’t leave the pot where you melted the ingredients in the heat for too long. Once the wax melts, transfer it to a container right away. Do not leave it exposed to direct heat for a long time as it might lead to burning the mixture.
  • Don’t moisturize your beard first before using the wax. The wax already has moisturizing properties.
    Aside from that, while this product is not water-soluble, it tends to be soluble in oil, so moisturizing it might only break it down during the application. It might ruin its effects.
  • Don’t use a mustache wax that does not have any carrier oil. A carrier oil is always a vital component in your homemade mustache wax. Without it, the final product will be extremely stiff. Cut down the texture by using jojoba oil or any other carrier oil.

FAQ

FAQ About Homemade Mustache Wax

What can you use as mustache wax?

If you don’t have a mustache wax, then note that there are things that you can use in place of it.
One thing that you can use as a mustache wax is honey. It tends to work great when it comes to styling your mustache.

However, keep in mind that it is not water-resistant. Aside from that, it tends to be very shiny when dry.
With that, make sure to do the coating of your hair with it slowly and carefully. Do not put on too much.

Comb the hair in place, then use a blow dryer to make the style good and firm. You can also use a chapstick as mustache wax.
It is effective in holding your mustache to the sides. It also prevents hair from slowly getting into your mouth.

Is beeswax good for mustaches?

Yes, it is, which is why it is the primary ingredient used in mustache waxes and other beard care products.
With the help of beeswax, you c
an style your facial hair or mustache easily.

This ingredient is also a huge help in ensuring that your hair strands stay together.
Furthermore, it contributes to keeping your facial hair clean and soft.

Apart from that, beeswax acts as a sealant, making it repel grime and dirt. It can also add moisture to your mustache.

How do you soften mustache wax?

If you notice your mustache wax getting a bit too firm or hard, then you can rest assured that you can soften it a bit.
All that you have to do to soften the wax is to expose its container’s bottom to boiling water. Do that for a few minutes.

Another way to soften the wax is to let hot water run over its container or tin. Letting a blow dryer run over the wax container can also help in softening it.

Can I use a hair gel on my mustache?

As much as possible, do not use a hair gel on your mustache. It is because this product might cause harm to your facial hair, causing the follicles to die or get damaged. Use a mustache wax instead. It contributes to grooming your mustache well.

Furthermore, a mustache wax often contains all-natural ingredients, making it safe to use, plus it guarantees a strong hold.

Conclusion

Making your own mustache wax is an inexpensive way to have a constant supply of this important beard grooming product.
You can use it to provide your mustache the extra care it needs to groom it and let it have the style you want.

The good thing about a DIY mustache wax is that it is something that you make on your own, so you are assured of the quality and safety of the ingredients you put in it.

Vinnie - Barber

About the author: Vinnie – Barber

Vinnie is one of the members of the Beardoholic writers team. He’s also a barber and hairstylist for 15 years now and he has a kick-ass beard of his own, so he surely knows what makes a magnificent beard and hair and how to achieve them. He’s our go-to guy for all the latest beard and hairstyle trends and he always has a tip or two on how to grow and style a thick beard fast.

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