FACIAL HAIR
Fact: An average man spends five months of his lifeshaving his facial hair
Majority of working men prefer to sport the clean-cut look — it's a globally acceptable 'corporate grooming standard' Statistics don't lie: 84% shave daily, while only 16% prefer to maintain well-defined shadow stubbles, moustaches or beards.
RAZORS & BLADES
What to use: As each person's hair growth pattern is distinctly different (even within members of the family), always choose your blade or razor based on your individual needs. Never make your buying decision based on a friend, a colleague or a relative's recommendation. You will need to try a variety of brands and blades — disposables, single, double or triple, until you find the right one for yourself.
How to use it: Always shave after your bath. The combination of body gel, soap, shampoo and water will make the hair softer and open up your pores resulting in a smoother and cleaner shave. It also prevents unnecessary nicks, cuts, abrasions and an after-shave irritation.
What not to do: At all costs, avoid a reverse shave. When you shave against the grain, the blade rakes across the skin and pulls the hair more harshly up and away from the face — this leads to the likelihood of nicks, razor burn and ingrown hairs. Your razor is as personal as your toothbrush — for sake of hygiene and to prevent infections, never share it with anyone.
Upkeep: A single use disposable blade should never be used twice. The primary disadvantages — lower quality shave, skin irritation or in-grown hairs afterwards. On the other hand, a double or triple blade can be used until it gets blunt or when it begins to pull your skin or skips areas it shouldn't. Using an old or a blunt blade can also result in a rash, red patches or a painful razor burn.
Maintenance: When not in use, never leave your razor wet or with hair on it. This can attract bacteria and lead to skin breakouts. Rinse your razor (ideally with a warm antiseptic solution) after each use and cover it once it's dry.
What you should know: You will need a flexible monthly budget to restock and refill. Most brands (both local and international) are priced rather high and claim their blades last a lot longer than they actually do. I am yet to come across a make that can guarantee a good shave, after just about a week of regular use.
CLIPPERS, GROOMERS & TRIMMERS
Spoilt for choice: You can choose from a huge variety on offer — both electric and battery operated that can be used to shave, shape, trim or remove your facial and body hair. As some models are specifically for body hair and others for facial shaving, understand the products features, before you make your purchase. Pick one that suits your requirements. I personally like the new range from WAHL and Philips. Both brands are priced well and can be trusted for durability and quality.
Plus: Fewer cuts in the skin, quicker shaving and no need for water supply. Experienced users actually use their gadgets on the go, either on a long haul flight and some even in their cars — on the way to an important meeting! Most people also find that they do not experience ingrown hairs or razor bumps, when using an electric or battery operated shaver.
Minus: Some don't always cut the whiskers as close as wet shaving does and they require a source of electricity or batteries that need a charge. With the kind of power outages we have seen recently, having a wet shaving set on stand-by is almost imperative!
Usage: Before you use a motorised razor, your skin may need to be dry and preferably clean. Follow the manufacturers instructions. Set the blade to the kind of shave you need — there's normally an option available. Based on the end result you want to achieve, choose between a direct, close or a further apart setting.
After care: Dust and brush the blade when you are done with it and keep it covered until next use.
BEFORE & AFTER SHAVE
Pre: Douse face and neck with a water-based moisturiser before you sleep. Wake up with soft & well-nourished skin and be assured of a close and hassle free shave.
Post: If you have very dry skin, you may use a soothing after-shave balm (by Nivea), oil (by Clarins Men) or a water-based moisturiser (by Shiseido Men) on the affected area. I don't recommend after-shave lotions as their overuse can sometimes result in dark batches or sunburn.
Home Remedies: Old timers have good reason to recommend the use of Alum to soothe and cool the shaved area and I endorse the suggestion. You may also apply aloe vera jelly, both as a skin conditioner and an antiseptic — which is best when derived fresh, from cutting the aloe vera leaf into two. This medicinal plant is easy to grow at home and thrives well in most parts of India.
CREAMS, GELS, SOAPS & FOAMS
For a wet shave: Lathering or lubricating agents such as cream, gel or foam should be used. Lubricating and moisturising the skin to be shaved ensures a smoother shave and helps prevent a razor or skin burn. Squeeze out the required quantity from the can, tube or bottle and spread evenly on the target area. Allow the product a minute of rest before running your razor through it.
Using regular body soap is never recommended as they can leave your skin feeling both dry and flaky. You may however use an old fashioned shaving soap (Crabtree & Evelyn) and a classing shaving brush to work up a lather with. Surprisingly, some men even use shampoo or shower gel to shave.
Recommended brands: Nivea & GilletteBSE 0.88 % for gels and foams and Godrej, Dettol and Old Spice for creams. Choose your lubricant based on your skin type - dry, oily or sensitive skin.
NOSE & EARS
It's unsightly to see hair sticking out from the ears and nose. Use a facial hair scissor (its an ordinary scissor with blunt ends so you don't hurt yourself) or a trimmer for removing the hair growth. Based on the amount of hair and how fast it grows back, you should do this at least once or twice a month. Nose strips can be used to remove the hair that grows on the nose. You would need to use these, about once every 10 days.
Tip: Avoid pulling the hair out with tweezers or your fingers — this can often result in unwanted pimples — that can be both long-term and painful.
CHEEKS & BROWS
Clean hair that grows around the eyes and on upper cheeks. This is a sensitive area and pulling hair out can be a bit painful, at least for the first few times. Removing the hair from the centre of the brows is highly recommended. It can open up your face and make you look both brighter and well groomed. This can be done with threading and should ideally be done by your barber or stylist when you go for your haircut. Even if the centre of your brows are naturally clean, trim long and loose strands that tend to stick out from the centre or sides of the brows. Always balance the ends of your brows — the inner end of the brow (that meets the nose) should always be lower than the outer ends (that touch the temples).
Tip: Lifting the ends of your brows makes your face appear slimmer and more angular and has the affect of a (non-surgical) facelift, by drastically enhancing and accentuating the natural shape of your jaw line.
BODY HAIR
Fact: Body hair removal and trimming is not just restricted to women. A recent market survey by Philipsreveals that almost 80% women think excessive body hair in men is a turn off. Another interesting finding: 61% men seem to dislike their own body hair.
Myth: Removing the hair on your body, will make it grow back thicker, faster and a lot more.
When: It's best to start only when the hair starts to grow either too rapidly, begins to feel uncomfortable or get a bit out of control.
Who: Most models, actors, body builders, some sportsmen and a lot of 'real' men do it. While some claim to do it purely for 'professional reasons', a lot actually do it because they prefer to look or feel smooth, clean and well defined. Hair removal now transcends barriers of age, caste, creed, economics, culture, religion and last but not the least — sexual orientation. Most men, who do it once, are likely to repeat the process but may not always admit to doing so. Like getting a tattoo done, the end results are said to be addictive.
1. Clippers or trimmers: Especially useful if your growth is long, thick or bushy. A clipper may not always remove the hair completely but can shorten the length to a level that's very close to skin. A clipper is best to use if you like your body retaining some of its natural hair.
2. Hair Removing creams: This is by far the quickest and most convenient way to remove body hair. They are many brands that make hair removal creams — Veet, Jolen, Jojoba, Anne French etc. Though none of these have launched a male-specific product yet, almost half of their consumers are believed to be men — both in urban and rural India. If you are using a hair removal cream, and follow instructions on the packaging. Avoid creams if you have very dry or sensitive skin. To play it safe, apply a water-based moisturiser for a few days before and after using the cream.
3. Wax: Waxing removes hair from the roots and is therefore the most effective. The advantage: it keeps your skin looking and feeling smooth for days, if not weeks. But the process can be a bit painful and can often lead to skin breakouts, if done by an inexperienced person. Alternatively, you may use wax strips (by Veet) to target specific areas.
Chest & abs: Recommended if you unbutton your shirt, wear deep-neck tees or collarless tops. For a completely slick and clean look, remove all the hair — down to the roots. For a more real feel, trim as necessary.
Underarms: If you want to prevent sweating, stay cooler & feel lighter, keep underarms completely clean.
Arms: If you wear sports vests, short or half sleeve tops, trim or remove hair on arms and forearms too.
Fingers & Hands: Trim the hair on the hands and fingers — if you occasionally wear full-sleeve shirts or jackets and if your hands are excessively hairy.
Legs: Trimming the hair on the thighs and calves works a lot better than going completely clean - not only because it looks more manly and real, but also because it's a lot easier to maintain.
The vitals: Remove excessive hair to keep the area dry. If you have sensitive skin and are prone to a rash, go completely clean, as and when needed.
Fact: An average man spends five months of his lifeshaving his facial hair
Majority of working men prefer to sport the clean-cut look — it's a globally acceptable 'corporate grooming standard' Statistics don't lie: 84% shave daily, while only 16% prefer to maintain well-defined shadow stubbles, moustaches or beards.
RAZORS & BLADES
What to use: As each person's hair growth pattern is distinctly different (even within members of the family), always choose your blade or razor based on your individual needs. Never make your buying decision based on a friend, a colleague or a relative's recommendation. You will need to try a variety of brands and blades — disposables, single, double or triple, until you find the right one for yourself.
How to use it: Always shave after your bath. The combination of body gel, soap, shampoo and water will make the hair softer and open up your pores resulting in a smoother and cleaner shave. It also prevents unnecessary nicks, cuts, abrasions and an after-shave irritation.
What not to do: At all costs, avoid a reverse shave. When you shave against the grain, the blade rakes across the skin and pulls the hair more harshly up and away from the face — this leads to the likelihood of nicks, razor burn and ingrown hairs. Your razor is as personal as your toothbrush — for sake of hygiene and to prevent infections, never share it with anyone.
Upkeep: A single use disposable blade should never be used twice. The primary disadvantages — lower quality shave, skin irritation or in-grown hairs afterwards. On the other hand, a double or triple blade can be used until it gets blunt or when it begins to pull your skin or skips areas it shouldn't. Using an old or a blunt blade can also result in a rash, red patches or a painful razor burn.
Maintenance: When not in use, never leave your razor wet or with hair on it. This can attract bacteria and lead to skin breakouts. Rinse your razor (ideally with a warm antiseptic solution) after each use and cover it once it's dry.
What you should know: You will need a flexible monthly budget to restock and refill. Most brands (both local and international) are priced rather high and claim their blades last a lot longer than they actually do. I am yet to come across a make that can guarantee a good shave, after just about a week of regular use.
CLIPPERS, GROOMERS & TRIMMERS
Spoilt for choice: You can choose from a huge variety on offer — both electric and battery operated that can be used to shave, shape, trim or remove your facial and body hair. As some models are specifically for body hair and others for facial shaving, understand the products features, before you make your purchase. Pick one that suits your requirements. I personally like the new range from WAHL and Philips. Both brands are priced well and can be trusted for durability and quality.
Plus: Fewer cuts in the skin, quicker shaving and no need for water supply. Experienced users actually use their gadgets on the go, either on a long haul flight and some even in their cars — on the way to an important meeting! Most people also find that they do not experience ingrown hairs or razor bumps, when using an electric or battery operated shaver.
Minus: Some don't always cut the whiskers as close as wet shaving does and they require a source of electricity or batteries that need a charge. With the kind of power outages we have seen recently, having a wet shaving set on stand-by is almost imperative!
Usage: Before you use a motorised razor, your skin may need to be dry and preferably clean. Follow the manufacturers instructions. Set the blade to the kind of shave you need — there's normally an option available. Based on the end result you want to achieve, choose between a direct, close or a further apart setting.
After care: Dust and brush the blade when you are done with it and keep it covered until next use.
BEFORE & AFTER SHAVE
Pre: Douse face and neck with a water-based moisturiser before you sleep. Wake up with soft & well-nourished skin and be assured of a close and hassle free shave.
Post: If you have very dry skin, you may use a soothing after-shave balm (by Nivea), oil (by Clarins Men) or a water-based moisturiser (by Shiseido Men) on the affected area. I don't recommend after-shave lotions as their overuse can sometimes result in dark batches or sunburn.
Home Remedies: Old timers have good reason to recommend the use of Alum to soothe and cool the shaved area and I endorse the suggestion. You may also apply aloe vera jelly, both as a skin conditioner and an antiseptic — which is best when derived fresh, from cutting the aloe vera leaf into two. This medicinal plant is easy to grow at home and thrives well in most parts of India.
CREAMS, GELS, SOAPS & FOAMS
For a wet shave: Lathering or lubricating agents such as cream, gel or foam should be used. Lubricating and moisturising the skin to be shaved ensures a smoother shave and helps prevent a razor or skin burn. Squeeze out the required quantity from the can, tube or bottle and spread evenly on the target area. Allow the product a minute of rest before running your razor through it.
Using regular body soap is never recommended as they can leave your skin feeling both dry and flaky. You may however use an old fashioned shaving soap (Crabtree & Evelyn) and a classing shaving brush to work up a lather with. Surprisingly, some men even use shampoo or shower gel to shave.
Recommended brands: Nivea & GilletteBSE 0.88 % for gels and foams and Godrej, Dettol and Old Spice for creams. Choose your lubricant based on your skin type - dry, oily or sensitive skin.
NOSE & EARS
It's unsightly to see hair sticking out from the ears and nose. Use a facial hair scissor (its an ordinary scissor with blunt ends so you don't hurt yourself) or a trimmer for removing the hair growth. Based on the amount of hair and how fast it grows back, you should do this at least once or twice a month. Nose strips can be used to remove the hair that grows on the nose. You would need to use these, about once every 10 days.
Tip: Avoid pulling the hair out with tweezers or your fingers — this can often result in unwanted pimples — that can be both long-term and painful.
CHEEKS & BROWS
Clean hair that grows around the eyes and on upper cheeks. This is a sensitive area and pulling hair out can be a bit painful, at least for the first few times. Removing the hair from the centre of the brows is highly recommended. It can open up your face and make you look both brighter and well groomed. This can be done with threading and should ideally be done by your barber or stylist when you go for your haircut. Even if the centre of your brows are naturally clean, trim long and loose strands that tend to stick out from the centre or sides of the brows. Always balance the ends of your brows — the inner end of the brow (that meets the nose) should always be lower than the outer ends (that touch the temples).
Tip: Lifting the ends of your brows makes your face appear slimmer and more angular and has the affect of a (non-surgical) facelift, by drastically enhancing and accentuating the natural shape of your jaw line.
BODY HAIR
Fact: Body hair removal and trimming is not just restricted to women. A recent market survey by Philipsreveals that almost 80% women think excessive body hair in men is a turn off. Another interesting finding: 61% men seem to dislike their own body hair.
Myth: Removing the hair on your body, will make it grow back thicker, faster and a lot more.
When: It's best to start only when the hair starts to grow either too rapidly, begins to feel uncomfortable or get a bit out of control.
Who: Most models, actors, body builders, some sportsmen and a lot of 'real' men do it. While some claim to do it purely for 'professional reasons', a lot actually do it because they prefer to look or feel smooth, clean and well defined. Hair removal now transcends barriers of age, caste, creed, economics, culture, religion and last but not the least — sexual orientation. Most men, who do it once, are likely to repeat the process but may not always admit to doing so. Like getting a tattoo done, the end results are said to be addictive.
1. Clippers or trimmers: Especially useful if your growth is long, thick or bushy. A clipper may not always remove the hair completely but can shorten the length to a level that's very close to skin. A clipper is best to use if you like your body retaining some of its natural hair.
2. Hair Removing creams: This is by far the quickest and most convenient way to remove body hair. They are many brands that make hair removal creams — Veet, Jolen, Jojoba, Anne French etc. Though none of these have launched a male-specific product yet, almost half of their consumers are believed to be men — both in urban and rural India. If you are using a hair removal cream, and follow instructions on the packaging. Avoid creams if you have very dry or sensitive skin. To play it safe, apply a water-based moisturiser for a few days before and after using the cream.
3. Wax: Waxing removes hair from the roots and is therefore the most effective. The advantage: it keeps your skin looking and feeling smooth for days, if not weeks. But the process can be a bit painful and can often lead to skin breakouts, if done by an inexperienced person. Alternatively, you may use wax strips (by Veet) to target specific areas.
Chest & abs: Recommended if you unbutton your shirt, wear deep-neck tees or collarless tops. For a completely slick and clean look, remove all the hair — down to the roots. For a more real feel, trim as necessary.
Underarms: If you want to prevent sweating, stay cooler & feel lighter, keep underarms completely clean.
Arms: If you wear sports vests, short or half sleeve tops, trim or remove hair on arms and forearms too.
Fingers & Hands: Trim the hair on the hands and fingers — if you occasionally wear full-sleeve shirts or jackets and if your hands are excessively hairy.
Legs: Trimming the hair on the thighs and calves works a lot better than going completely clean - not only because it looks more manly and real, but also because it's a lot easier to maintain.
The vitals: Remove excessive hair to keep the area dry. If you have sensitive skin and are prone to a rash, go completely clean, as and when needed.
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