Grooming. How difficult can it be? Very much so, considering our fixation with the latest hairstyle trends and quick-tricks for better looking facials. And then, there’s manscaping – down below.
Whatever the grooming crutch, simple is so much better than anything overdone. Why is which I’ve compiled a quick list of what’s considered humble habit for becoming a well-groomed man: flawless skin, nice hair and white teeth doesn’t just happen by accident.
Here are some basic habits a man can cultivate to become well groomed.
A signature scent
Cologne or fragrance says a lot about personal taste, which is why men who desire to be well groomed need to go down this path. First, go to a reputable fragrance outlet – one that retails big names, best- sellers and boutique scents. Apply and sniff, and let the fragrance mellow on the card or skin. Get to know it, take it home with you, live with it for a while– only then can you truly know if you like it or not.
If you’re not happy with an off-the-shelf brand (or content with smelling like everyone else), then concoct your very own scent. Like a bespoke suit, it will fit your personality and style like a glove. In summary, take the time to try-before-you-buy. There’s more to fragrance than forming an allegiance with Team Citrus, Team Sugar or Team Spice.
Need to floss (and brush)
How hot is bad breath? Extremely not pleasant! This is why dental hygiene– down to the nitty-gritty, is imperative. Flossing does about 40 per cent of the work required to remove sticky bacteria, or plaque from your teeth, especially in between teeth, where brushing doesn’t reach.
Plaque generates acid, which can cause cavities, irritate the gums, and lead to gum disease– one of the main causes of bad breath. You follow? Not even mouthwash or the occasional mint replaces the ferocity of a good floss. Afraid of the red stuff– blood? Bleeding means the gums are inflamed because plaque has built up and needs to be cleaned away. Gross. But, don’t let that deter you. Floss- at least once a day, and the bleeding, plaque and bad breath shall cease.
Know and understand your hair type
It’s all well and good to want the coolest haircut of the season. But to be a well-groomed man, you need to know your hair type first, and then decide on a workable hairstyle based on what genetics gave them. These are the main hair characteristics to consider:
Density: thick, medium or thin; Porosity: the hair’s ability to hold moisture (low, medium or high); Elasticity: the hair’s ability to stretch and not break (low, medium or high); Curl Pattern: straight, wavy, curly.
Decipher your hair type using the checklist above. But be sure to do so only when the hair is au naturel: dry, clean and void of any hair products that inhibit a true assessment. Then, head to a barber (with a photo if you wish), to explain the look you’re after. Then, with the pro’s approval should you proceed with your dream hairdo.
Know your skin type
Just like hair, to be a well-groomed man you need to know your specialised skin type. The main skin types for men are oily, dry, sensitive and normal. Whether you need put more moisturise back into the skin or eradicate oils due to clogged up pores, the natural state of your skin (cause by genetics and diet, really) will affect what skin care products you’ll be needing, and how intense your regime.
Then, there’s the physical environment that you live/ work in. Work in an office? Consider the effect of air-condition on drying out your skin. And, if you’re outside working, the sun and wind both play a part in drying and even burning your skin. Basic skin care essentials include a non-greasy moisturiser (with added UV protection is a plus), a face cleanser and an exfoliator (to be used pre-shave).
Seek assistance
This leads to the most important simple habit needed to become a well groomed man– seek help or advice from others. If you’re unsure on your skin type, consult a skin/beauty therapist or a GP, especially in relation to severe oily/dry skin (the problem could be much deeper than using a certain face cream).
Can’t decipher your hair type? Talk to the barber next time and ask what type you are. I guarantee they’ll be impressed you even bothered to ask. And then, as professionals, they can suggest appropriate hair products to lift your hair-game.
Finally, find a female in your life (a girlfriend, wife or sister) and chat grooming tricks for a bit. More so than men, women have been inundated with beauty regimes and grooming products (especially skin and hair) their entire lives, and have grooming gems stored away, just waiting to be uncovered.
While male and female bodies aren’t exactly alike, there’s certainly cross-over in how the two sexes (both being human) react to ‘life’ environments (the physical weather, diet/exercise and the stress of work/ relationships). This all takes its toll on skin, hair and dental hygiene.