Ensure you’re all set to tackle the summer heat with these seasonal grooming tips.
While it’s well known that not every guy on the street places hygiene and grooming as high on the priority list as say, a threesome with the runners-up in a women’s Brazilian beach volleyball tournament, that doesn’t mean you can’t follow a few vital guidelines that will ease you into the middle-right of the metrosexuality scene.
Easy on the Brut
All men need a deodorant and an antiperspirant. Even better, get a product that’s both, but don’t spray it on like you’re the guy in the Lynx ad – you’re not. Fragrance-free means you’re leaving your cologne to do its magic without that underlying aerosol smell. Find a he-perfume that suits your body style – heavier scents work better for older guys and those who don’t sweat, while lighter, more floral aromas work best for bigger guys who heat up under the sun. Don’t be afraid to try the “walk through” application, no one’s watching you in your bathroom.
READ: How to Choose the Right Fragrance for You
Scrub Up
Washing your face is essential, not only to remove morning-after lipstick streaks or dried beer bottle labels but to reduce the signs of aging – you might not care about all that now but by the time you do it’ll be too late. Instead, treat your Lady Catcher with a little respect; use an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells, followed by a moisturizer with added sunscreen that will help with seasonal dryness and help you look like Doogie Howser for years to come.
A Close Shave
Whether you’re going baby’s bottom or sporting a face jacket, the key here is to look sharp and well put together, and that comes with shaving and trimming. Beards should be pruned to look like there is an idea behind it, not like you just washed up on a beach somewhere. Even soft jaws can benefit from a nice layer of stubble but the key is to keep it consistent. If you’re shaving close, be sure to wash with hot water first, to open the pores and soften the skin, and use specialist shaving oils or cooling gels rather than cheap foam-in-a-can to help avoid shaving rash.
Overcome Your Fears: Wax
Sure you were traumatized by that scene in The 40 Year Old Virgin, we all were, but there are distinct advantages to waxing. Professional waxing can last from four to eight weeks, and even when hair does grow back, it’s softer and easier to deal with. If you’ve got a back beard or furry shoulders, waxing is a must, if not for your sake than for ours. Also note, caffeine can sensitize the skin so if you do opt for a male Brazilian (or even some strategic Rio-ing) skip your morning Joe. And whatever you do, don’t try and do it yourself.
READ: Time to Perfect Your Ice Driving Skills
Dazzle the Dames
Oral hygiene is a fundamental – there’s no point in drawing in the ladies with your perfectly sculpted beard and beautifully waxed shoulders if you’re just going to melt their face off with the breath of a chimp. Use a comprehensive toothpaste with a whitening solution, floss regularly and don’t forget to clean your tongue. Mouthwash is worth its weight in gold, if only to hide that second martini at lunch, and heavy-duty mint-flavoured gum is ideal for the office, just don’t chew in others’ company.
Watch the Talons
You may not notice them, your mates might not notice them, but women are noticing your nails and they’re making a lasting impression. Nails pick up all manner of bacteria through the passing of an average day but it only takes five minutes a week for them to look their best. Invest in clippers – using your mouth, your fingernails or a bowie knife is a no-no. Trim and dull so you’re not cutting anyone up in the sack (that includes toenails), and scrub when in the shower for a clean and neat look.
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