4 UNDERRATED TIPS TO GET YOUR GROOMING REGIMEN STARTED

Everything men need to know – from hair care to applying the right moisturiser.

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Men have traditionally kept their grooming habits simple. But with the rise in dermatological research and product launches aimed at men’s hair, skin and all-round self-care, there’s been a change of heart. Interested? We have the tips and tricks to get your regimen started.

FACE TIME
No matter how old you are, you need to maintain a consistent skincare routine to keep your skin healthy. And there are no shortcuts or quick fixes.

This means:
Cleansing: Foaming cleansers are great for oily or acne-prone skin, while creamy, milk cleansers work best for dry skin. If you’re smack bang in the middle, use a gel cleanser.

Toning: Always check the label of the toner. Avoid products with harsh ingredients, like alcohol, that could dry out your skin. Soak a cotton pad with a few drops of your chosen toner and gently pat it onto the skin after you’ve washed and dried your face. Do not rub in the product as this could damage your skin.

Moisturising: Always hydrate with a moisturiser. Use one with SPF 30 or higher, no matter the season, for sun protection – this is the best anti-ageing product you can come by! To complete your face routine, exfoliate 2–3 times a week to get rid of dead skin cells, and apply a nourishing face mask at least once a week.

BEARD CARE
Your facial hair is a marker of who you are – keep it clean, trimmed, and conditioned. Like the hair on your head, your beard or mustache should be washed and conditioned 2–3 times a week. Trimming it will also avoid ingrown hairs. If you have sensitive skin and suffer from razor burn, use an aftershave balm to soothe your skin.

TIP

HANDS ON
With age, the skin of your hands loses its firmness and moisture, leading to sunspots, wrinkles and cracked, dry cuticles. Use a rejuvenating hand and nail cream (or Vaseline) to moisturise, slow signs of ageing and protect hands. Pure vitamin E will hydrate your cuticles and keep them sealed and nourished to avoid bacterial infection.

Do:
Keep your nails clean and trim them often to avoid dirt getting stuck underneath.
Cut your nails, while they’re dry, using stainless-steel nail clippers. Your fingernails should have a curve, while toenails should be cut straight across to prevent ingrown nails.

Don’t:
Cut or remove your cuticles. This will cause them to grow back quickly, become ingrown and infected. Gently push them back after you’ve washed.

SMOOTH STYLING
Messy hair may be having a moment right now, but it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Shampoo and condition your hair at least twice a week to keep your strands clean and healthy. But don’t do it too often, nor use too much product, since this can cause dry scalp and dandruff.

Don’t forget:
To occasionally use a hair treatment or mask to nourish your hair follicles.
If you’re styling your hair at home, make sure you use clean, sterilised tools when cutting it.
Use products suited to your hair type to avoid a build-up of oil, and allergic reactions.
For the messy-hair enthusiasts: treat your hair with a sea-salt spray for added volume and shine.

Words by Charndré Emma Kippie