Acording to recent industry research, even though the male grooming industry is booming, most men still either do not buy their grooming products themselves, or they need expert assistance to keep looking sharp and stylish.
With Father’s Day looming, we chat to the experts for a list of the top look-good tips, with a special focus on how to stand out from the crowd in spite of the cold.
1. Exfoliation is essential
“If there is one thing that we cannot stress enough, it would be to use an exfoliator,” says Jared Hines, co-owner of Hines & Harley Men’s Grooming Lounge in Johannesburg. Exfoliating is the most important step in your skincare routine as it removes all dead skin, allowing for better absorption of products. It reduces ingrown hairs, as the hair can break through the skin, and it brings healthy skin cells
to the surface, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
TRY: Clinique For Men Oil Control Exfoliating Tonic
2. Moisturise and protect
“Always apply a daily moisturiser,” says Hines. It creates a protective layer against the effects of pollution and the environment, while providing moisture to the skin. Daily application of sunblock is crucial against the ageing effect of sun exposure. Wear a good SPF every day, even when it’s overcast.
TRY: Neutrogena Hydro Boost City Shield Hydrating lotion
3. Avoid hot-water showers
This winter, not only should you be conservative about the length of your showers, but
also consider the temperature of the water you use. Prolonged exposure to very hot water can flush away the natural oils that work to keep the skin and hair feeling soft. Be sure to finish your shower with lukewarm water, as cooler water has the effect of closing the pores for a fresher, healthier appearance.
4. Go electric
A comprehensive UK study has found that electric toothbrushes are, indeed, more effective than manual toothbrushes in reducing plaque and guarding against gum problems. Floss at least once a day, as good oral hygiene is fundamental to a well-groomed appearance.
TRY: Oral-B Professional Care 500 Rechareable Toothbrush
5. shave with care
Most men are thrown off their daily shaving routine because of the discomfort factor. In most cases, skin irritation caused by shaving is, in fact, the result of shaving with an inferior razor or blunt blades. Make sure you keep your shaving equipment sharp, and hunt for an aftershave balm that suits your skin and leaves it feeling soft and relaxed. “Visiting a professional barber for a hot-towel shave can introduce you to products and techniques that make your own routine far more enjoyable,” says Monique Fleming of Bonafide Beards.
TRY: Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water
6. Nourish and maintain your beard
Facial hair has hit the mainstream, and men have a great deal of beard-grooming products available to them. “The most common mistake a lot of men make is to assume that beard grooming is only about the beard itself,” says Fleming.“However, it is more about taking care of the skin from which the beard grows.” She advises that men opt for chemical- and paraben-free products, such as oils and balms, as they can be particularly effective in “conditioning and softening the beard, and protecting it from harsh elements such as cold, rain and wind”. Once your beard is established, it is vital to keep it looking trimmed and neat. Beard trimmers are worthwhile investments, she says, while a trip to the barber every month will ensure your beard stays shaped and sculpted in the style that works for you.
TRY: Sorbet Man Beard oil
7. Get up close and personal
Invest in a personal groomer to take care of unsightly ear, nose and neck hair. These are inexpensive, efficient gadgets that make a world of difference to your presentation.
8. Prevent bad hair days by being prepared for bad weather
On days when the wind is howling and the rain is beating down, you will need to use some products to keep your look presentable. “For your hair, the best product in bad weather is a hair cream or clay, which both allow different looks. With cream, the hair will move yet retain its style, while the clay is better for making sure the hair stays put throughout it all.”
TRY: Hairgum Road Hairdressing Pomade
9. create your own gentle moisturiser
In winter, it is easy to develop dry or scaly patches of skin in many places on the body, such as the hands, feet and elbows. Although baby oil is too greasy to use on its own, adding a few drops of water to the bottle dilutes the oil enough to become an effective body moisturiser. According to hair and make-up artist Desmond van Staden, this mixture can also be used as a hair serum to guard against a dry scalp and to give your hair a moisture boost.
10. Know what your skin needs
People are different so, of course, products that work for one individual might not work for another. If you are not getting the results you are looking for, despite the investment, perhaps it is time to consult a professional. Experts such as Hines & Harley Men’s Grooming Lounge or Sorbet Man offer
a skin analysis service, where a qualified somatologist will determine your skin’s needs and recommend the best treatment and products for you.
IMAGE CREDIT: Getty Images