As someone who’s been sporting a full beard for years, I’ve tried my fair share of beard products. Some work okay, some smell great but don’t condition much, and some are just all hype. If you’re exploring your options, I also put together a list of the best beard balms I’ve tested. Spoiler alert, this one made the cut. But every once in a while, a product lands in your routine that makes you stop and think, “Where have you been all my life?” For me, that’s exactly what happened with Grave Before Shave Cigar Blend Beard Balm.
I’ve been using this balm for over a month now, and I genuinely look forward to applying it every morning. From the scent to the way it makes my beard feel (and look), this stuff has become a staple in my grooming kit. Here’s my in-depth review based on real use; no fluff, just how it actually performs.
Strong Branding and Great Packaging
Let’s start with presentation. Grave Before Shave always nails the branding. The artwork on the tin is edgy, bold, and fits the whole vintage-barber-meets-outlaw vibe they’re known for. I know packaging isn’t everything, but when you’re spending your money on grooming products, a cool aesthetic adds to the experience.
The 2 oz tin is compact, easy to travel with, and the screw-top lid seals tightly so you’re not dealing with any leaks or messes. Big plus in my book.
The Scent: Smooth, Masculine, and Addictive
This is where the Cigar Blend really stands out and probably my favorite thing about it.
When they say Cigar Blend, don’t let your mind jump to the harsh stench of a cheap cigar. This isn’t that. Instead, the scent is warm, rich, and refined. It’s a perfect blend of sweet tobacco and a subtle vanilla undertone, giving it a smoky-smooth finish that smells classy and masculine without being overpowering.
To be honest, I’ve had people ask me what cologne I’m wearing when I’m just using this balm. That’s how good the scent is. It lasts for a good few hours after application, and fades gently without ever turning sour or stale.
If I had to sum it up: think cozy cigar lounge meets high-end barbershop.
Texture & Application
One thing I’ve learned from testing beard balms is that texture matters a lot. Some are so hard you have to practically dig into them with a coin, while others melt into an oily mess. Grave Before Shave hit the sweet spot here.
The Cigar Blend Beard Balm has a buttery-smooth texture that melts easily between your fingers. It’s firm enough to give hold, but soft enough that you can scoop it out and work it in without a fight. It doesn’t feel overly waxy or gritty at all, which makes it great for daily use.
Application is simple: rub a small amount between your palms, and work it through your beard from roots to ends. I usually finish by brushing or combing it in for even distribution. It softens up my beard instantly and gives it a subtle, healthy-looking sheen.
Conditioning Power: Noticeably Softer Beard
Now let’s talk about performance. One of the key things I want from a beard balm—aside from scent—is actual conditioning. I don’t just want my beard to look good; I want it to feel good too.
After using this balm consistently for a few weeks, I’ve noticed a real difference in how soft and manageable my beard is. My beard tends to get coarse, especially in colder weather, but this balm has done a great job at keeping it hydrated and reducing frizz.
Ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, coconut oil, and essential oils do the heavy lifting here. They help lock in moisture and prevent that dry, brittle feeling that so many guys with longer beards deal with.
I also noticed that my beard feels less itchy, which probably means it’s doing some work on the skin underneath too. That’s huge, especially if you’re just growing out your beard or have sensitive skin.
Hold & Styling: Just the Right Amount
If you’re expecting the same kind of hold you’d get from a styling wax or pomade, this isn’t that—and that’s actually a good thing.
The hold is light to medium, which is perfect for my needs. It tames flyaways and keeps my beard looking neat and full, but still natural. I don’t like when beard products make my beard feel stiff or heavy, and thankfully, this balm doesn’t do that.
It works well for shaping, especially if your beard gets a little unruly during the day. I’ve got some curl in my beard, and the balm helps relax those waves just enough without killing the volume.
What I Liked Most:
- The scent is incredible – bold but not overwhelming, warm and masculine.
- Noticeable softening effect – my beard feels healthier and more conditioned.
- No greasy residue – absorbs well, doesn’t leave your hands or beard feeling oily.
- Easy to apply – smooth texture that works into the beard effortlessly.
- Decent hold – perfect for everyday grooming without making the beard stiff.
What Could Be Improved (Minor Gripes)
If I had to nitpick, I’d say this:
- The hold could be slightly stronger for guys who want more control or sharper shaping. It works great for casual, everyday use, but maybe not for those who want a super polished, styled look.
- The scent might be too strong for very scent-sensitive folks. I personally love it, but if you’re someone who doesn’t want your beard balm to clash with cologne or last more than an hour, keep that in mind. That said, it’s not a synthetic or overpowering scent—it’s just more noticeable than some unscented or lightly scented balms.
Final Thoughts
After using Grave Before Shave’s Cigar Blend Beard Balm consistently, I can confidently say it’s one of the best beard products I’ve ever tried. It hits every note I’m looking for in a beard balm—great scent, conditioning power, ease of use, and decent styling hold.
More importantly, it makes me enjoy my grooming routine. That’s something not many products can claim.
I’d recommend this to:
- Anyone with a medium to long beard who wants to keep it soft, healthy, and great-smelling
- Guys who love masculine, refined scents (tobacco lovers, this one’s for you)
- People looking for a reliable balm that’s not too greasy and easy to apply
Would I try other scents from Grave Before Shave after this experience? Absolutely. But honestly, it’ll be hard to beat the Cigar Blend. It’s that good.
If you’re on the fence, just get it. Your beard will thank you.