Men’s Grooming Essentials: Your guide to looking and feeling great

From skincare to beard care, master the art of modern grooming with simple, effective tips for a polished and confident appearance.

By PAUL NG

31 Jan 2025 10:00am

Building a grooming routine takes time, trial, and error. Photo: Recreate and Canva

GONE are the days of the stiff, old-fashioned man’s man. Today's modern man knows that grooming isn't about vanity — it's about self-care, confidence, and showing up as the best version of yourself.

Whether you're chasing goals at work, hanging with friends, or just owning your day, a solid grooming routine sets the tone. Let's ditch the bar soap and dive into the essentials of modern men’s grooming.

THE FOUNDATION OF A POLISHED LOOK

Think skincare is just for women? Think again. Healthy, glowing skin isn't just attractive — it's key to confidence. Here's a simple guide to build a routine that works for your skin type:

Identify Your Skin Type: Oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? Knowing this will help you pick the right products.

Cleanse Daily: Use a gentle cleanser twice a day to wash away dirt, oil, and grime without stripping your skin's natural moisture.

Exfoliate Weekly: Exfoliating 1-2 times a week helps remove dead skin cells, prevents clogged pores, and reduces ingrown hairs.

Moisturise Religiously: Moisturiser isn’t optional — hydrated skin is healthy skin, no matter your skin type.

Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin with SPF 30+ daily to prevent sun damage, premature ageing, and skin cancer.

TREAT YOUR CROWN LIKE ROYALTY

Your hair says a lot about you — keep it looking sharp. Whether you're all about a fade, a flow, or something in between, here's how to level up your hair game:

Find Your Signature Style: Experiment with different cuts to find one that complements your face shape and personal vibe.

Pick the Right Products: Choose shampoos, conditioners, and styling products tailored to your hair type and desired look.

Don't Overwash: Washing your hair every 2-3 days is ideal for most hair types. Overwashing can strip your hair's natural oils, leading to dryness.

Get Regular Trims: Keep your style fresh and prevent split ends with regular trims every few weeks.

GET YOUR BEARD GAME ON

A beard can be a powerful statement, but it requires upkeep. Whether you’re rocking a light stubble or a full-on Viking beard, these tips will keep it looking its best:

Wash Regularly: Clean your beard with a dedicated beard wash or gentle shampoo to keep it fresh and free of debris.

Hydrate for Softness: Use beard oil or balm to moisturise and prevent beard dandruff.

Shape and Trim: Maintain your beard’s shape with quality trimmers or scissors, and use a comb or brush to detangle and style.

Choose Your Style: Find a beard style that suits your face shape and complements your overall look.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

Great grooming goes beyond skin, hair, and beards. These final details tie everything together:

Oral Hygiene: Brush, floss, and rinse daily for fresh breath and a bright smile. Don’t skip regular dental checkups.

Nail Care: Keep nails clean, trimmed, and neat. You don’t need a manicure — just avoid looking like you’ve been digging in the dirt.

Fragrance Matters: A subtle, well-chosen cologne adds a personal touch to your presence. Stick with scents that suit your personality and the occasion.

Body Care: Use a gentle body wash and moisturise to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.

GROOMING IS A JOURNEY

Building a grooming routine takes time, trial, and error. Experiment with products and techniques until you find what works for you. Remember, grooming isn’t about chasing unrealistic standards; it’s about feeling good in your own skin and putting your best foot forward.

Invest in yourself — it’s worth it. A polished appearance and a confident attitude open doors, whether in work, relationships, or everyday life.

Ready to level up your look? It’s time to make grooming part of your game plan.