Travis Kelce’s magic ‘stache may not have brought him a third Super Bowl ring this year, but the grooming choice did make him look ready to be cast in a reboot of Tombstone. And thanks to other mustachioed celebrities like Justin Bieber and Jason Sudeikis, a new facial hair reality has set in: These guys are bringing the mustache back in a big way. But what you might not understand is the careful art of using mustache wax to perfect the look—and the best mustache wax to get you there.
The difference between ’staches of the past and flavor savors of today is that you no longer need Tom Selleck levels of charisma to pull off this vintage, now revived look. You just need to mind your mustache wax.
According to Robin Staz, a barber at Beardbrand Barbershop in Austin, TX, mustache wax is a styling product often made with beeswax and other ingredients that act as a pomade for your face, preventing flyaways that are a result of dry hair and skin.
“Men need it to maintain style, prevent hairs from getting into the mouth, and keep hair and skin healthy,” Staz explains.
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Master Barber (that’s a legit title) Cody Renegar echoes that sentiment. “It's a good idea to use mustache wax because it prevents irritation, moisturizes the face, helps control the facial hair, and helps it look thicker,” he says.
In other words, the right mustache wax can make all the difference between a dirtbag ‘stache (you know the vibe) and a classy upper lip.
With upwards of 600 waxes available on Amazon alone and a range of reviews, it can be hard to tell which products will leave your ’stache with a smooth, workable texture and which will leave a clumpy mess. Here, Staz and Renegar share their favorite mustache waxes on the market and how to use them to avoid the latter. While we landed on Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax as the overall best wax of its kind, you’ll no doubt find something that suits your facial hair fancies.
Best Mustache Waxes at a Glance
- Best Overall Mustache Wax: Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax
- Best Budget Mustache Wax: Clubman Moustache Wax
- Best Mustache Wax for Beginners: Firehouse Wacky Tacky Moustache Wax
The Best Mustache Waxes of 2025
Best Overall Mustache Wax: Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax
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Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax is Renegar’s favorite overall pick because the beeswax-based formula is pliable but not sticky and has “a good hold that isn't too much.” Whether you want to prevent a few flyaway hairs from your chevron or go full handlebar, this affordable, versatile wax “checks all the boxes.”
Staz (a Dutchman himself) agrees that the Netherlands-based company offers a “great line of styling products.” The natural orange and mint scent will also leave your mustache looking and smell good for anyone who wants to get close to it. Or, if you’re looking for more bourbon and sandalwood notes, try the brand’s Bourbon Sidecar Mustache Wax.
Best Budget Mustache Wax: Clubman Moustache Wax
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For anyone who doesn't want who doesn’t want to spend more than $5 on a styling product, Staz suggests Clubman Wax. “It’s an inexpensive option and will help you see if you enjoy maintaining your mustache,” he says. Made with natural beeswax and complete with a brush and applicator, “There’s not much to lose in testing it.”
Renegar adds that the Clubman brand has been a staple in barbershops since 1810 for good reason. “It's simple, classic, and not too pricey.”
Best Mustache Wax for Beginners: Firehouse Wacky Tacky Moustache Wax
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Mustache newbies who don’t know where to start should look no further than Firehouse Wax. The fragrance-free formula “has a natural look and a buildable texture, so it's good for beginners to play with,” Renegar says.
Staz refers to Firehouse as “an OG in the mustache space,” having formulated the wax back in 2006. Even though it’s been around for nearly two decades, the brand still makes waxes by hand in small batches.
Best High Hold Mustache Wax: Fisticuffs Mustache Wax
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When it comes to taming particularly unruly flyaways or nailing a specific ’stache style, Renegar points to Fisticuffs Wax. The naturally scented, dye-free beeswax formula “has a powerful hold that lasts all day, and your mustache still stays soft and shiny,” he explains.
Staz agrees that Firehouse is as affordable as it is easy to apply, making it a smart pick for busy men who don’t have time to mess with a rogue mustache throughout the day.
Best Medium Hold Mustache Wax: Badger Mustache Wax
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If you want a mustache wax that leaves room for twirling and other movement but still has some hold to it, then Badger Mustache Wax is the best move. The combination of shea butter and beeswax provides a “nice hold that also conditions your hair,” Renegar says, leaving it soft but under control. Staz seconds this recommendation, especially for anyone looking for a natural option.
Best for Beard-Mustache Combo: Honest Amish Beard Balm
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The biggest difference between mustache wax and beard balm is that balm has a more gentle hold while conditioning the beard. But Honest Amish Beard Balm is the best of both worlds for anyone looking to consolidate styling products. “It is great for the beard-mustache combo because it's perfect for taming beard flyaways and molding a mustache, depending on how much you use,” Renegar says. Hand-crafted with natural, organic ingredients, it’s a one-stop source for good-looking and -smelling facial hair.
Best Mustache Wax for Curling: Death Grip Mustache Wax
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Whether you’re looking for subtle curls or to go full handlebar guy—or you’re trying to replicate that speakeasy-style bartender style—Renegar recommends Death Grip. As the name implies, it’s a strong and tacky formula, yet it's still pliable enough to style a long, curly mustache and hold it in place.
Staz agrees but warns that curled mustaches are not for the faint of heart… or lip. “This product is for experienced mustache wearers only.” He also suggests setting aside extra time to style this advanced ‘stache and using a hair dryer. (Mustache enthusiasts consign the hair dryer method.) “An extra strong hold mustache takes extra work to apply,” Staz explains. “That being said, nothing will be better at locking in those perfect curls than this wax.”
Best All-Natural Mustache Wax: Burt's Bees Conditioning Beard Balm
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Although other natural products are on this list, Renegar points to Burt’s Bees for a no-nonsense natural option for under $10. Made from beeswax and natural oils, the product “has a light hold, but tames flyaways and keeps hair in place.” If your mustache just needs a little help staying in line, and you prefer paraben-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free products, then Burt’s Bees is an affordable way to dip your ‘stache in the world of styling products.
Best Stick Mustache Wax: Beardbrand Mustache Wax
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Beardbrand Wax provides a medium hold for a range of mustache styles, and is made with beeswax and lanolin. But what sets this wax apart is how easily it fits in your pocket, like a tube of Chapstick. “Either apply it directly from the stick or scrape some off with your thumb to apply,” Staz says. Available for $12 in two distinct fragrances, Old Money (with oak and leather notes) and Tree Ranger (for more of a pine, eucalyptus vibe), “your nose will thank you” for unlocking its powers.
Best Secret Mustache Wax: Elmer’s Glue Stick
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Speaking of pocketable, affordable mustache wax options, Staz shared a secret of the facial hair grooming world. “You can use Elmer’s Glue Stick as a mustache wax,” he admits. “It’s nontoxic and washable, and with three sticks for $6, it’s an incredible bang for the buck.” ’Stached Reddit users agree. So, if you’re not ready to invest in mustache wax but have some extra art supplies, give it a twirl.
Why You Should Trust Me
It is true that I don't style a mustache. But if you’ve landed on this article, chances are pretty high that you haven’t mastered the art, either. To make up for a lack of direct, personal experience, I relied on the expertise of barbers who know their way around a 'stache and its styling. I'm now convinced that a man with a mustache could be a great look. And women like me are no strangers to facing that facial hair up close and personal. Yes, we're judging (hopefully in a positive way).
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