Daniel Zigler, better known as Danzbeard, is a former Natural Olympia bodybuilding champion and one of The Beard Struggle's longest-serving ambassadors. He joined the Brand Viking family in 2018 and helped us develop one of our early heated beard straightening brushes.
Who is Danzbeard?
In 2006, while studying at Cal State Long Beach, Daniel broke his neck. After surgery and recovery he finished his degree in kinesiology and then did something few people would: he took up competitive bodybuilding.
He went on to win the Natural Olympia, the biggest title in natural bodybuilding, and he did it with a full beard. That was close to taboo on a bodybuilding stage, and it is a big part of why people remember him.
Today Daniel coaches clients on health, fitness and competing, and spends his free time travelling, surfing and snowboarding.
"I chose to work with The Beard Struggle because of the camaraderie amongst everyone involved."
Danzbeard's beard routine
Daniel's favourite tool has always been the heated beard brush, and the video below shows his full routine. The idea: get the beard clean and conditioned, then use heat to shape it.
- Wash and condition. Radiance Beard Wash and Conditioner to clean without drying the skin out.
- Oil. Day Liquid Tonic on the damp beard, skin first.
- Heat. The Carbon X Pro heated brush to straighten and add volume.
- Balm. Warrior's Beard Balm to set the shape.
His favourite scent is Viking Storm.
Danzbeard's full beard routine, start to finish.
Danzbeard on oil vs balm
Daniel also breaks down what beard oil does, what balm does, and when to reach for each, in our guide to beard oil vs beard balm. The short version: oil conditions, balm seals and shapes. Oil goes on first.
Danzbeard FAQ
Who is Danzbeard?
Danzbeard is Daniel Zigler, a former Natural Olympia bodybuilding champion and fitness coach, and a The Beard Struggle ambassador since 2018.
What does Danzbeard use on his beard?
His favourite product is the heated beard brush, now the Carbon X Pro. He pairs it with beard wash, conditioner, oil and balm.
Did Danzbeard compete with a beard?
Yes. He won the Natural Olympia with a full beard, which was rare in bodybuilding at the time.
Where can I follow Danzbeard?
On Instagram at @danzbeard.
