Men’s beauty standards have changed dramatically in the last few decades but fear not. If you are looking to revamp your appearance, you’re in luck; looking your best can be just one manicure or gym membership away.
1. Find the Shave That’s Right for You
Shaving seems to be optional, rather than required. Men who have a five o’clock shadow can be desirable, but this look doesn’t work for everyone. Although it looks rather cool and rebellious, ironically, it only works if you’ve put a lot of thought into it.
For example, there’s a fine line between shadow and a full-fledged beard, and if you have thick hair on your neck, that might not look so great. Plus, if your facial hair is unkempt or patchy, you’d better just take the razor to it and be clean-shaven for your night out.
2. Get Routine Manicures
Manicured nails look great on anyone. When you’ve got black stuff crusted under your nails, your date will wonder where that hand has been. But you don’t have to break the bank to get yourself a good manicure. Your female family members have probably been doing their own nails for years, and I am sure that they will gladly help you; all you have to do is ask. Plus, these days men go to nail places to get their nails done all the time, so don’t think twice about it.
To enhance your well-manicured nails, a spot of clear nail polish or varnish will make them look even cleaner.
3. Follow a Skincare Regimen
Cleansing
Using an exfoliant gets rid of dead skin particles, leaving your face feeling smoother and looking great. It can also help prevent blackheads, acne and ingrown hairs. This apricot scrub doesn’t cost a lot and works nicely to clean skin and minimize pores.
Creams
Moisturizing is key to keeping your skin balanced. If your face is too oily or dry, acne can flare or skin can peel. An anti-ageing cream is also a great preventative investment, and it works just as well on men as it does on women. While you’re at it, you might want to choose one with sunscreen in it to protect your skin from sun damage. It is important to note that some creams can cause excess shine, though.
Combating Shine
Certain facial creams can leave your face looking shiny. If you use these creams, you might also want to purchase a couple of cosmetics to take the shine from your face: a concealer and/or a light foundation. Using these products will make your face more matte.
Cosmetics
Cosmetics can be introduced to your skincare routine as well, but these products should be chosen carefully, depending on your skin type. There are many popular lines designed for men, and while there is no real reason for you to wear lipstick, eye shadow or blush—if desired, they can be used to enhance your best facial features.
The best way to go about applying cosmetics is to seek out an expert to show you how. If applied correctly, cosmetics can draw attention away from flaws.
4. Create a Teeth-Cleaning Routine
No matter how often you clean your teeth, they can become stained from drinking tea or coffee, smoking or eating certain foods. There are many different ways to whiten them, but the cheapest option is to use whitening toothpaste. Although it might take a little longer than other methods, it will give you a brighter smile in two to three weeks.
Having whiter teeth doesn’t always mean that you have fresh breath, and although regular brushing does help, investing in good mouthwash is essential. Mouthwash gets to parts of the mouth that brushing can’t reach, leaving your breath fresher and your mouth cleaner.
5. Wash and Treat Your Hair Regularly
Regardless of hair type, it is important to use a shampoo that is gentle on your hair. Ingredients such as vitamin E and coconut oil are great for naturally strengthening and conditioning hair follicles. Hot oil treatments also leave your hair with a great natural-looking shine.
Don’t be fooled by super-fragrant shampoos, either. Be sure to read the labels, as these types of products can contain artificial ingredients that don’t do much for your hair.
6. Don’t Neglect the Hair “Down There”
To shave or not to shave is a matter of personal preference; if it feels right, go ahead and do it. But if you’d rather not “manscape,” don’t. You can manage growth by trimming the hair now and then with scissors or an electric groomer, taking care not to endanger your chances of having children in the future.
7. Take Care of Your Clothes
No matter if you are going to a casual event or a formal one, ensure that your clothes are well-laundered, at least. Cleanliness is next to godliness, after all, and if you have worked on all of the other care tips above, you could spoil it all by having poorly washed or pressed clothes. And don’t forget the shoes, which should be well cared for and polished.
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