Having an effective grooming routine is incredibly important and here at Mankind we know that sometimes it's hard to figure out which things are necessary and which are just gimmicks. To help you figure out what to invest in and what to leave on the shelf (out of your basket, physically or virtually!), Bulldog Skincare for Men have sent over their top 18 rules of grooming to keep you in tip top condition!
1. Invest in a good deodorant
This is a no brainer, but you would be surprised how many deodorants don't last throughout the day. Make sure you're not known as the smelly one in the office and invest in a hard working deodorant.
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Top Tip: If you go for a fragranced deodorant, make sure it doesn't clash with your cologne.
2. Shower Daily
Also pretty straight forward, but a must, full stop. Believe me when I say this, making sure you wash everyday will definitely improve your game with the ladies, and everyone else. It will also build your confidence when you're out and about which is always a plus.
3. Moisturise Your Face
Moisturising is not only for women. By applying a small amount daily to your face when you jump out of the shower it will mean no more flaking skin and no more tight forehead. Don't be fooled that if you have oily skin you should not use a moisturiser, if you withhold your skin moisture it will go into overdrive and over produce oil to counteract the dryness. So you are better using a light moisturiser for oily skin types and a thicker one for dryer skin types.
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4. Use a Shaving Brush for Wet Shaves
For a close shave a razor is best, and to get the most out of that razor you need two components. A quality shaving gel and a shaving brush, the brush helps to loosen and lift the bristles of your facial hair. Thus enabling the razor to get a closer shave.
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5. Invest in a Good Razor
A good razor will last you a lot longer than naff plastic disposable razors, and you'll also be helping the environment by not being part of the throw away society.
Precision and definition are two of the advantages of the luxury blade, razors like eShave have 5 blades for a clean, close shave that will leave your skin comfortable and clean and not damaged and sore. The easy grip handle makes the razor a pleasure to use. Try the eShave 5 blade razor here.
However if you want more of a prestige luxurious experience try the Bolin Webb R1 Razor. - This classic has a bacteria-resistant rubber underside to the handle for a comfortable grip with a lacquered metal handle. With a sculpted, elegant design, it will look great on your bathroom shelf, whilst creating the perfect shave.
6. Find a Scent That Suits You
Finding a signature scent can be complicated, some of us will make do with whatever they are bought as gifts. However don't be afraid to go down to your local department store and test out a few fragrances to find your ideal smell. Alternatively, you can save the trip and check out our blog on how to choose the right fragrance.
Some great scents from Mankind:
7. Maintain Your Eyebrows and Nose Hair
Make sure you keep your nose and eyebrows in check, as no one likes hairy creepers poking out of your nose. As you get older unfortunately the old nose and ear hair can get a bit unruly, so we highly recommended the Remington Hygienic Nose & Ear Clipper.
To keep those eyebrows under control, as your barber to give them a trim next time your at the hairdressers, alternatively use this wonder trimmer from Wahl. It may also be good to read our guide on how to tame eyebrows. This will ensure that you don't go overboard.
8. Exercise
You know what they say, 'Healthy body, healthy mind', and even though we don't want to believe it, it makes sense. If you exercise you flush your body of toxins, create serotonin and generally feel fitter, so what are you waiting for, get active. Even if it is just a 20 minute walk a day you will feel the effects soon enough. Don't forget to read our blog on how to survive a workout for some extra hints and tips.
9. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
Sounds crazy to say it, but brush your teeth morning and night and be aware of personal hygiene. Fresh breath makes all the difference to any of the people you encounter on a daily basis. We offer a range of premium toothpastes right here at Mankind which you can add to your order. From whitening pastes to flavoured ones, there's sure to be one you'll love!
10. Exfoliate
Most men won't think exfoliation applies to them, but using a face and body scrub once a week will help to clear your skin of any blemishes and stubble rash. By scrubbing away dead skin and dirt, you will be left with fresh feeling skin.
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11. Lip Balm is Your Friend
Dry lips is not attractive or comfortable, so to make sure your lips stay moisturised, invest in a lip balm.
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12. Sunscreen is Essential
Protecting your skin for the future involves wearing sunscreen. As Baz Luhrmann says 'wear sunscreen', you will thank your younger self when you don't look like a leather handbag in your 50's. Start your sunscreen protection using a moisturiser with SPF in it, and make sure when you are on holiday in the sun you use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or above.
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13. Get a Haircut Every 6-8 Weeks
Grooming is all about looking after your appearance and if your looking shabby around the edges, the quickest way to smarten up and get an instant boost is a haircut. Find a barber you like and stick with them.
14. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is the simplest way to clear skin, it hydrates your body and skin, leaving you feeling fresh. Drink 1-2 litres of water a day.
15. If You've Got a Beard, Maintain It
Messy beards are not attractive for anyone, so make sure you either get a beard trimmer for home, or book yourself in for a beard trim at the barbers.
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16. Trim Your Nails, Don't Bite Them
The amount of bacteria under your nails is equivalent to that under a toilet seat, so it is definitely a safe bet to use a nail trimmer, and avoid chewing on them yourself.
Try the Tweezerman Clippers to keep your nails trim.
17. Hand Cream Isn't Just for Women
Especially in the winter, your hands can take a hammering with the weather and constant temperature change. So to make sure you don't suffer with tight, dry skin and get some calming, moisturising hand cream. Small and compact hand cream can easily fit in your briefcase or in your laptop bag.
18. Eat your vegetables
Eating healthy benefits your skin. If you eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day, your skin and body will thank you for it.
Bulldog Skincare for Men are a cruelty-free brand for men who want to look after their skin, the no-fuss way.