Read on for answers to your most asked grooming questions…
Q: What’s the trick to a pain-free shave?
A: Your razor has to be super-sharp.
If you’re using a disposable, bin it after three shaves. If the blade starts pulling, you need a fresh edge. A blunt razor scrapes the top layers of skin away, leaving you smarting. Soothe skin with a cooling slick of after-shave balm.
Q: What’s the point of manicures?
A: Bitten, torn nails look shabby. Women pay attention to the details, and tatty nails give you away as an undercover slob. An attentive boss will also notice; top businessmen are immaculate, right down to their fingertips. Book yourself for a manicure, or invest in the multi-tooled Tweezerman Dolphin Nail File, part of the Tweezerman Men's Care Kit.
Q: Which aftershave will impress my girlfriend?
A: You’re right to think carefully about this. Smell is the most primitive of senses – get it right and you’re going to hit her subconscious with a powerful message. Take a trip to one of the island’s perfume shops and ask staff what are the most popular aftershaves.
Q: How do I use hair wax?
A: Wax is a really versatile product. The secret to success is to apply it to dry hair, starting with a small amount and building up gradually. You can apply it to the fringe area for a little extra control, or all over to accentuate the style.
Q: Is a man’s skin different from a woman’s?
A: Facial hair is the most obvious difference! Apart from that, men produce more sebum, resulting in an oilier complexion more inclined to spots and blackheads. Men also have a stronger, thicker epidermis that can lead to ingrown hairs.
Q: Can I get a massage that won’t make me smell like a girl?
A: There are now loads of treatments that don’t use sweetly scented products. Many top beauty houses provide massages and facials that are aimed at men.
Q: Why does beer make me blotchy?
A: You probably have sensitive skin. Try products that are formulated for skins prone to irritation.
Q: Does fake tan turn you orange?
A: Not any more. Technology has improved enormously and fake tans are now indistinguishable from the real thing. If you’re going to apply it yourself, make sure you exfoliate and moisturise beforehand, or you’ll get darker patches on the dry bits. Alternatively, get the professionals to airbrush you with a spray-on tan.
Q: What’s wrong with soap?
A: Ordinary soap can be very dehydrating. The pH value of a standard soap bar is very alkaline and will disrupt the natural balance of the skin, leaving it tight and itchy. Strong fragrances can also irritate. Look for a non-drying formula soap packed with essential oils.
Q: Should spots be popped?
A: Resist the temptation. You’ll almost always make things worse. Squeezing spots will push the infection deeper into the pores. You’ll end up with a larger, redder spot, and maybe some permanent scarring into the bargain.
Q: What are blackheads, and why do they plague me?
A: They are plugs of oil that block the pores and turn black on contact with the air. Men are particularly prone as they have oiler skin. Cleansing and exfoliating keeps them at bay, but if you really want to blast them, try a facial.
Q: How can I get rid of ingrown hairs?
A: Exfoliate and moisturise. If the skin dries out, it will form a layer which new hairs will be unable to break through. They then start growing inwards, causing unsightly swellings. A face scrub will slough away dead skin, and moisturiser will keep things peachy soft.
Q: My hairline is on the retreat. Help!
A: Male pattern baldness is caused by a combination of genetics and hormonal imbalances. Follicles decrease in size, causing hair to thin and die off. You can help maintain a healthy growth cycle by feeding your hair the right nutrients.
Q: Why do I get puffy eyes after a night out?
A: When your body is dehydrated it starts storing what little water there is. Fluids trapped in the tissues under the eyes give that tell-tale puffiness. The first step is to drink lots of water. Then hold ice-cubes over your eyes.
Q: Should I treat back spots differently than face spots?
A: Acne is acne. Prevent outbreaks with a good cleansing and exfoliating routine.
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