It's easy to feel bemused by the overwhelming amount of advice, opinion and small pots filled with expensive goop on the market. So we’ve created a set of rules all stylish men know to keep you looking your best.
The trick isn't to spend a fortune on a thousand different products or to lock yourself in the bathroom for hours at a time.
Rather, you should develop a daily routine that is quick, simple and – above all else – about maintenance, ensuring you don't let yourself down with unsightly hair or unnecessarily puffy eyes.
Presenting: seven easy grooming habits all men should get into.
- Become a regular at your barbers
Book your next appointment while you're there for roughly 4 weeks time, and stick to it. Too many men wait for the 'forlorn tugging of your locks' stage before doing anything about it. Basically, if you've noticed your hair needs a cut, then other people have too. The trick is to be proactive, not reactive – and having a regular place you trust will cut down on the 'what if he messes this up' anxiety.
Hair products for men have got a bit more confusing since the Brylcreem your Granddad swore by, so make sure you're clued up on what each product is for. Thicker hair and messy styles can handle waxes and pomades, but if your hair's thinner, then lighter products and sprays will give your barnet some staying power. Ask your barber if you're a bit in the dark, but the right product can make all the difference.
- Find your signature scent
Aftershave isn't supposed to be loud or obvious. You don't want people to stop in their tracks and notice (if they do, you've worn too much). Rather, it should become a subtle part of your overall presence.
Rather than owning 8-10 average quality bottles you pick from each morning at random, find one or two classic scents you really like and invest in them. Typically woody, spicy or herby scents suit the winter months, while lighter, citrusy scents work best in spring and summer.
- Upgrade your toothbrush
Two things every woman notices: your shoes and your smile. When it comes to the latter, there is no longer any excuse for ignoring advances in technology.
Electric toothbrushes are designed to do most the work for you, plus, they're better for your health: according to a study by Sheffield University, rotating brushes reduce 11% more plaque than manual toothbrushes, and can also significantly reduce gum problems.
And while you're at it, use a mouthwash after you brush first thing in the morning.
- Learn how to manscape properly
Trimming your body hair is not only perfectly acceptable in 2018, it's polite. Aim for what you'd appreciate in a partner, i.e. keep things neat and tidy.
Top tip: keep whatever device you use for this sensitive task separate from what you shave your face with. There are plenty of electric razors on the market designed for the nether region's unique challenges.
- Moisturise often
For many men, the idea of including a tinted moisturiser in their routine is one step away from swapping their trunks for Speedos. It really shouldn't be given we all look better with a tan and good products will give you a subtle healthy glow. If you can't bring yourself to bronze, make sure you're at least using a moisturiser with an SPF to protect your mug.
- Wash your face before bed
If you want to head to bed with a clean slate then you're going to need a solid face wash routine, particularly if you live in the belly of a great, coal-powered beast like London, where your face and skin collect grimy pollutants throughout the day.
Start the process with ice cold water (no problem at the moment), before moving onto a light, alcohol-free face wash and remember, avoid moisturising to give your pores a chance to breathe a bit.
- Wear sunscreen
It might seem counterproductive and, frankly, a bit pointless to apply anything featuring the word 'sun' on to your skin in the depths of winter, but your face will thank you for it.
Even at this time of year UV rays escape through the walls of fog, rain and darkness, drying out and damaging that precious skin of yours.
We suggest adding a light SPF 15 moisturiser into your daily grooming routine that will nourish and protect, which is always nice.
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