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Shaving is an essential part of men's grooming and hygiene. Not only does shaving help to remove unwanted facial hair, but it also exfoliates the skin, reducing the appearance of blemishes and other imperfections. Not to mention, having a close shave can help to improve one's overall appearance by making a face appear clean and well-groomed. However, the downside to a clean shave can be getting a shaving rash.
For many men, shaving is a daily ritual that is tricky to master. Not every face is the same. But thankfully, several different techniques and products are available to help make shaving your face more effective and less painful. For example, some men prefer to use electric razors instead of safety razors, while others opt for shaving gels over creams. Each has its strengths and weaknesses.
Shaving rash is a common and uncomfortable condition that can occur when shaving. It is characterised by red, irritated, and inflamed skin, which can lead to itching, burning sensations, and pain when touched.
Several factors can contribute to shaving rash, including shaving too closely, using poor-quality shaving products, or shaving in the wrong direction. Also, dry shaving and shaving with dirty blades or razors can increase men's risk of developing irritations.
If you find yourself experiencing shaving rash or irritation after shaving, there are some simple steps you can take to soothe your skin and prevent further damage.
A dull razor can lead to cuts and razor burns, making the entire shaving process unpleasant and uncomfortable. Investing in a high-quality razor with sharp blades will ensure you slice the hairs away rather than pull or tug them. Tugging them out will expose the root and can lead to ingrown hairs.
Exfoliating your skin before shaving will help to remove dead skin cells and debris, making it easier for your razor to glide over the surface. In addition, exfoliating can help lift facial hair, allowing you to achieve a closer shave with less irritation.
Many exfoliation products can be used on the face, such as exfoliating scrubs or exfoliating washcloths. Choose those that match your skin type and aren't too coarse.
Once you have finished shaving, rinse your face with cold water to help close the pores. This will prevent dirt and bacteria from building up in the pores and causing further irritation or breakouts. Cold water can also help reduce inflammation, soothing any redness or itchiness that may have developed during the shaving process.
Once you have finished shaving, it is important to moisturise your skin. This will help to soothe any irritation or redness that has occurred while shaving and can also help keep your skin nourished and healthy. Look for men's moisturisers that contain aloe vera or vitamin E, both are known to be soothing on dry, irritated skin.
There is a great choice for men who suffer from sensitive skin or frequent irritation during their shaving routine. These grooming products are formulated with sensitive skin in mind. They may contain natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile that help to soothe the skin, prevent breakouts, and reduce inflammation.
There is no right or wrong answer regarding shaving gel or shaving cream; your choice of product will depend on your preference and skin type.
Both shaving gels and creams provide a smooth shaving surface, minimising the chances of cuts, razor burns, and ingrown hairs. However, they differ in certain aspects:
Shaving gels are typically formulated with moisturisers such as aloe vera that help keep the skin hydrated during shaving. This can be especially helpful if you have dry or sensitive skin.
Shaving creams tend to contain more emollients like coconut oil and shea butter, providing extra nourishment for the skin. This can benefit men with oily or acne-prone skin who want to reduce the likelihood of breakouts.
Ultimately, choosing the shaving product will depend on your skin type and needs. If unsure, try a few different gels or creams until you find one that works best for you.
When it comes to shaving, the general rule is that you should shave in the direction of your hair growth. For some men, this means shaving up and down, while for others it can mean shaving across or diagonally. In general, though, following the grain as opposed to against it will help prevent irritation and achieve a closer shave.
However, if you are experiencing razor bumps or ingrown hairs after shaving, you may want to experiment with different shaving techniques until you find the one that works best for your skin type.
Whether you are growing your hair out or have embraced a lengthened mane long-term, long hair with men needs to be kept in tip-top condition. As your hair gets longer, it requires a cultured hand so that issues like dandruff, split ends and frizz are all kept at bay. This means finding the right products for your unique hair length and understanding new grooming techniques to include in your routine.
Read on to find out the tips required to keep those luscious locks looking their best.
While there is no one right answer, there are several key considerations when caring for long hair.
First and foremost, it's important to invest in quality hair care products specifically designed for long hair. These products will help protect and nourish your long tresses, keeping them healthy and shiny.
In addition to using the right products, staying on top of your grooming routine is essential. That means regularly washing, conditioning, and trimming dry or split ends periodically to keep your chosen style looking great.
If you're new to managing men's long hair or struggling with haircare issues, consider seeking professional guidance.
A key weapon in your grooming arsenal is a dependable hairbrush. It commendably helps with the care and management of long hair. Why? Because brushing with a hairbrush ensures you evenly distribute natural oils, which prevent dryness, breakage, and even split ends. Additionally, using a hairbrush can help make it easier to style your hair and achieve your desired look.
So if you have long hair and are looking for an easy way to keep it looking its best, consider investing in a quality hairbrush and incorporating it into your regular hair care routine.
For best and lasting results, be sure to use a hairbrush nightly.
Long hair can't be treated the same way as a french crop. Use products specifically cultivated for longer locks to get the style of your dreams. Options, including pomades, serums, and gels, offer unique benefits depending on your individual needs.
For example, a styling gel or mousse will help to add volume and hold to straight or wavy styles, while a serum or oil can tame frizz and add shine. So if you're struggling with styling issues or are looking for the best products for your specific type of long hair, be sure to do some research and explore the wide range of options available.
An ionic blow dryer is a styling tool designed to help men with long hair achieve their desired styles while minimising damage and preserving the health and vitality of their tresses. Unlike traditional blow dryers, ionic blow dryers use less heat, which helps to protect the hair from breakage, split ends, and other common styling problems. Additionally, ionic products are often infused with nourishing ingredients like keratin and argan oil. These oils promote healthy growth and keep strands looking shiny and soft.
If you're a man who loves long hairstyles but struggles with managing your mane, an ionic blow dryer may be just the styling ammunition you need.
Even if you take all the right steps to keep your hair looking its best, neglecting your scalp can lead to dryness, itching, and even scalp acne. So be sure to incorporate regular scalp massages and scalp-specific treatments into your haircare routine, as these simple steps can help to promote healthy follicle growth while keeping your scalp in optimal condition.
Lastly, maintain a regular haircut routine if you want to ensure that your long hair always looks its best. Ideally, every eight weeks or so. This can help remove fraying and frizziness and keep your hair healthy and smooth. Regular haircuts can also help prevent split ends, one of the biggest bugbears associated with long hair.
Bidding a fond farewell to long, hot summer days can be hard. But, men shouldn't be too disheartened, summer can be a tricky time for dressing. On warmer days, we opt for the necessity of keeping cool, often at the expense of looking well put together.
The more we remove clothing to combat the heat, the less inspiration it leaves us with. In fall, men can start to layer again, building up those great looks piece by piece. A key element to this is a transitional jacket. Able to protect from an impromptu shower without being too hot or bulky.
Mastering the art of layering goes hand-in-hand with being able to choose the right items. Nail both and you'll integrate what you buy into more outfits. Thus delivering greater value for money and more daily looks. A win-win situation perfected with the right transitional jacket.
During the coolers months of fall, we need our jackets to be multi-faceted. Effective at beating the cold and rain, but without losing its style credentials. This can be tricky as most functional outerwear is not the best looking.
When it comes to fabrics there are a few choices. Obviously, as it rains more in fall so we can choose a water-repellent option. This could be nylon or a cotton mix that has been treated to wick away water. Either, should work.
For men who might be spending a little more time outside, then insulating warmth is going to be crucial. Not to be weighed down with a thick overcoat, guys can look at down fillings. They are great at keeping the body warm without being too bulky. Uniqlo in particular has led the way in this with their Ultra-Light Down pieces.
Though it isn't always raining and it isn't always cold. On days like this heavyweight cotton could be the answer. Think worker jackets or overshirts. It is something a little thicker than a typical shirt which can be layered with a t-shirt or jumper.
Here are some of our picks of the best jacket styles for fall.
Does exactly what it says on the tin. A classic, timeless style it will see men well year-in, year-out. To get maximum use, try a more neutral colour palette like khaki, navy or beige. These should integrate nicely within most guys' wardrobes.
With regard to length, we are going to leave this to you. As dependent on whether you are taller or shorter can alter what you pick. Although, a nice middle-ground is for your mac to finish mid-thigh.
Anyone reading this should be well aware by now that we are big fans of overshirts. They are the pocket-knife of menswear, able to be worn with different looks.
In the fall, we can play around a bit more with textures and colours. Cotton can be replaced by wool, while plain can be switched for a plaid or check print.
The result is still an essential piece of men's kit. This time with a winter twist. Perfect for longevity, as you can wear it beneath an overcoat as the sub-zero temperatures roll in.
In a similar vein to the overshirt, a worker jacket has come to the fore over the past few years. Its popularity is down to the understated aura. It doesn't try to be anything more than a dependable, everyday essential.
The simple construction of a worker jacket should be mirrored in what men wear with it. Think uncomplicated denim, chunky boots and heavyweight tees.
Just remember, that while the worker jacket is versatile, it isn't the warmest. A supporting thick knit will get you some of the way, but when the cold really hits, it is time to switch it out.
With a laidback, throw-on nature, a bomber jacket is ideal for taking away the chill. The shape aligns with casual attire and you'll typically find this option in cotton or nylon.
After checking the weather forecast first, you can elevate this pick somewhat. Suede can add a premium edge to a simple silhouette. It also allows the bomber to become a little more dressy.
When the mercury hasn't dropped far enough to warrant the big puffer, a light down will do an admirable job. The lightweight alternative to the cumbersome puffer is insulating and packable.
If the sun has decided to show its face, a light down can easily be condensed to a fraction of its size. This functionality is hard to beat, especially during rush-hour travelling. Upon re-opening, no shape has been lost and it's ready to be worn again.
We like to layer our ultra-light down underneath an overcoat for maximum warmth. Should you feel on its own it is lacking a style edge seek out a scooped vest for a contemporary twist.
The infamous outerwear of choice for "flashers'. The trench coat has sidestepped this moniker to keep stylish men dry since the 1820s.
Traditionalists opt for a double-breasted trench coat that finishes at the knee. The additional belt is a necessity. Should you require something a little more updated? Brands have played with shape and colour to modernise this classic.
Either way, it's impeccably versatile. Wear over a suit for formal occasions or on top of a hoodie for a weekend vibe. The trench coat knows no bounds, making it a fall outerwear tour de force.
The summer suit is officially back. 2022 feels like the first time we can enjoy our tailored selves for some time. Men can finally ditch the work-from-home pants to get dolled up in their finest threads.
Formalwear is having a resurgence. Men are returning to the office, and wedding invitations are rolling in.
The suit's nonchalant ability to frame your body is undeniable. Hiding any unwanted bumps while always making you look your dapper best. Though, after limited use over the past few years., now is the time to refresh your tailoring.
Never fear, we are here to steer you guys through the choppy waters of menswear. Navigating through the tailored waves to bring you the best summer suits or any budget.
During the summer months, functionality tends to take over our daily outfits. We look for items that will repel the heat and keep us cool as we do our business. Though, functionality doesn't always go hand-in-hand with presentability.
To journey over this treacherous style bridge, we need to cover three main aspects.
We need our clothing to be functional while still looking great in the heat. Crucial to this is picking a material that will allow air to circulate the body and thus keep us cool.
The best fabric for letting the air in is linen. Linen's downside is that it wrinkles, which is not a look everyone enjoys. We recommend opting for a linen-cotton mix. It will hold its structure better and reduce the amount of creasing during wear.
Why not take the opportunity in the summer to deconstruct your suit? Removing linings and shoulder padding, for example, will allow you more breathing room. The key is to identify unstructured jackets within a two-piece suit. It won't have as much body weight and will sit a little looser on the frame.
What a slim or skinny fit gives a man in a narrow rockstar silhouette can also be restrictive. A tailored or straight fit will still give you a nice silhouette without having you sweating into your champagne glass.
A useful styling trick men can use as the mercury rises to pick colours that help repel the sun's rays. Summer suit ranges always feature a myriad of beiges and creams. Why? They do a great job at reflecting the sun helping you maintain your sweat-free composure.
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This unstructured version of the Ludlow suit was originally released in 2017. Still going strong, it is versatile, unpadded and crafted from some of the finest linen.
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The Havana range, lightweight and timeless, is a top pick for summer. This double-breasted number was woven in Italy from a mix of linen, silk and cotton.
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The fit for this suit is based on Percival's popular tailored blazer, only this time it is crafted from 100% linen. Perfect for a summer drinks rendezvous.
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Bringing a modern twist on a classic preppy style is what Ralph Lauren is famed for. This suit has a natural shoulder and is half-canvassed to create a relaxed look.
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The innovative flex technology in this pick from M&S lends itself well to the heat, allowing movement and breathability. Ideal for a warm weather wedding.
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Summer tailoring is all about the relaxed fit. This blazer is half-lined for a softer silhouette and can be jazzed up with a Cuban collar shirt underneath.
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Burton covers you if men need something more affordable for that last-minute invite. A powder blue hue is a suit colour you can only get away with in summer.
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Wear as a suit or as separates, this option from Italian suit giants Boglioli is nonchalant and sophisticated.
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Started by menswear stalwart Oliver Spencer, Favourbrook brings a contemporary twist to traditional formalwear. Constructed from 100% linen, it will keep you cool on your big day.
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Mixing cotton and linen in a herringbone design, this suit has a dash of vintage about it. The peak lapels accentuate the shoulders nicely, while the light palette offers countless styling options.
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A laidback vibe prevails with this unstructured blazer from Orlebar Brown. Small details such as soft shoulders mean they can be worn with a formal shirt. Alternatively, layer with thin knitwear or a simple tee to tap into that relaxed mode.
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A linen-cotton mix with a hint of elasticity ensures this summer suit has some stretch, making it more light and airy. In a racing green colourway, it is a nice break from the lighter hues on the market in the warmer months.
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The semi-constructed nature of this suit is made from a twill-woven blend of cotton and hemp. The resulting finish is one of the coolest suits in style and fabric.
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Tailored in Italy, a linen suit like this number from Thom Sweeney is essential fodder during warmer months. Mix the jacket or trousers with other pieces from your wardrobe for maximum wear.
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With an overall slightly more casual fit, this suit has all the elements a man needs to dress up or down. We want our wardrobe to be flexible and interchangeable, which is somewhere this pick can slip into seamlessly.
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Should you be travelling this summer and can't face an airport trip in sweats then we have the answer. A drawstring waist touser and natural fit blazer are key comfort points with this aptly named 'Traveler Suit' from New York brand, Todd Snyder.
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Not all suits in summer need to be pastels to be attention-grabbing. This olive linen suit is refined while still making an impact.
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A Prince of Wales check fabric is a timeless classic. Incorporating it elevates this linen summer suit crafted from sustainable fibres to a new level.
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An exquisitely tailored-fit suit crafted from pure linen and woven in Italy. Double vents allow for much-needed freedom of movement within this elegant piece.
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This suit is a workwear-inspired number expertly produced in a cotton-linen blend. It will take you perfectly from work to evening summer drinks.
The struggle for bigger men when shopping for clothing is all too real. Anything other than “average” tends to fall between the cracks, which makes finding pieces that accentuate your smaller, taller or larger figure difficult.
No matter your size, there are always tips and tricks men can employ to look their best when putting daily outfits together.
Just remember, that taking action starts today. Often, we can wait for the day we get to our optimum body weight before making positive style changes. Dressing better should begin in earnest as your current weight shouldn’t stop you from looking great.
Start by seeking out brands that will cater to your size. This will typically mean avoiding the mass-market guys that think anything above a size 44 chest is obese. Embrace that barrel chest and let’s improve your personal and style confidence at the same time.
Read on for more tips on dressing for a bigger body.
Men of all shapes and sizes need to take greater notice of fit, as getting it wrong is a surefire way to ruin your look.
If you suffer from a lack of confidence the default can often be to hide behind ill-fitting clothing. But, this can have the opposite effect, showing how negligently you have dressed and bringing unwanted attention.
The key is not to go too extreme the other way and start wearing figure-hugging pieces. Strike the balance by picking items that don't swallow but allow movement when sitting or walking. For example, no tightness on the trouser waist when sitting and no flashes of belly when stretching out your arms.
The trick here is to effectively frame your body. That means picking a jacket that sits squarely on the shoulders and falls in a nice drape, enveloping the body rather than suffocating it. A nice drape stops any pinching in the fabric at the waist or thighs and removes any excess layers that will bulk out a man's frame.
With bottoms take a pair of joggers and compare them to chinos or formal trousers. The joggers will have excess fabric throughout and look sloppy. A pair of structured trousers will give a clean line without drawing the eye.
Once you have nailed that silhouette, it is about adding pieces that work within that fit rather than ruin it. So, no bulky wallets or keys billowing out pockets and undoing all that hard work.
Larger guys can negatively accentuate their frames by seeking out heavy fabrics. These types of materials will only add unnecessary bulk and heat and trust me, no one wants a sweaty mess on their hands.
Thin materials though will cling to every bump or curve. The middle ground is a natural fabric like denim, oxford cotton or cashmere that can keep the wearer cool while also being structurally sound.
We want to create a wardrobe full of interchangeable pieces. If men take note of the fabrics, they can ensure they have more items that can look good together through effective layering.
Our bodies are all unique and that means we might need to seek professional help to get great-fitting clothing.
If your budget stretches to it, I would recommend getting your suits made from scratch. You know from experience that off-the-rack won't be catered to your size or shape, so bigger guys should start from the ground up with a tailor.
To make your investment go further, work to the lifetime of your garment rather than the initial occasion. Pick out timeless fabrics that you can wear year after year.
But, what if you lose or gain weight?
A tailor can always easily shorten or tuck pieces, finding additional inches is more difficult. By striking up a line of communication in person, a tailor can accommodate changes in a man's body over time and include hidden material for any future weight gain.
If you are the guy that likes to embrace some colour or pattern then don't let us be the ones to stop you. We would just stress the importance of airing caution.
Neutral colours are going to be a larger man's best friend, think navy, brown, charcoal or black. Use these as your anchor points for any patterns or additional bolder colours.
Stripes (vertically, not horizontally) can elongate your body while checks are also a commendable choice. Anything too colourful or too busy can overwhelm you and make you look bigger than you are. Bold patterns in muted tones should be the sweet spot.
Looking your best doesn't start or stop with the clothing you wear.
Being proud of who you are should seep into every area of your life. That means refreshing your skin with a good regime, choosing a signature scent and trimming that unruly beard. Small changes can elevate your presentability and show you take pride in your appearance. This will make a lasting impression on anyone you meet.
When shopping for outwear, bigger men will look better in longer coats. A short coat will draw the eye to the midriff while a longer coat will nicely frame that robust shape.
This simple switch elongates the body, not cut it in half. Just remember to avoid coats like a trench which typically has a belt, as this will have the same effect as a shorter jacket and split the body in half.
The repeat colour and pattern found with a suit is an ideal way to appear slightly slimmer with an elongated body. Uniformed, neutral colours are the way forward, which larger framed men can then use to add a subtle check or stripe.
There is a lot men can do with a humble piece of knitwear. Ideal for adding a layer in lighter fabrics like merino wool or cashmere. Equally, we can use it to add more definition by incorporating it as a focal point with a shawl cardigan version. The vertical collar line draws the eye up the body with the overall shape being fitted without suffocating.
The tough nature of the denim material means it is great at giving us that much-needed structure. Clean, simple lines can be achieved by choosing a pair of jeans without any distressing or patches. Selvedge would be a nice pick, just make sure you get through the difficult early stages of wear as the fabric needs to soften with use.
Add some texture and definition to your outfit with a polo shirt. The shirt collar's 'v' neckline will draw the eye up while keeping some of them undone can suit those men with broader shoulders and thicker necks.
Having oily skin is a condition that can affect a lot of men. But, it isn't all bad. Skin that can look oily or greasy is because of an overactive production of sebum, an oily substance that helps stop your skin from drying out. Men need to artfully control this production so as not to scare it into overdrive without going too far the other way and drying the skin out.
It might sound difficult, which is why we are here to guide you through these choppy grooming waters with some helpful tips. If you can help identify the reason why your skin produces the levels of sebum it does, then you can build a skincare regime to combat it.
Sounds like a good place to start.
As we mentioned, oily skin can be a result of an overproduction of sebum. This oily substance comes from the sebaceous gland which is typically attached to hair follicles.
A sebaceous gland naturally moisturises your skin and is found everywhere apart from the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. This gland produces more sebum with age and then starts to slow down as we get to later in life.
The key question though, is why does one guy produce more sebum than another?
Unfortunately, it could just be down to your genetics. If either of your parents has faced this skin issue then there is a good chance you will too.
Dihydrotestosterone is a hormone derived from your testosterone (the sex hormone) and is a major factor for oily skin. If you ever had breakouts during puberty you know exactly what we mean. DHT forces your skin to produce more sebum.
Yes, the way you are treating your skin now could be having a detrimental effect. Sebum is looking to protect your skin, so if you are damaging it with harsh chemicals or scrubbing too much then oily skin will be the result.
Skin is the human body's largest organ and needs to be cared for. Being rough with it and stripping your skin of the natural oils it needs to look its best is will trigger an injury response and send the sebaceous gland into overdrive.
Now we know a little more about why our skin produces sebum we can start to adapt our skincare regime to control our oily skin. The below guide includes tips as well keep alterations to how we care for our skin on a daily basis to try and work with the sebaceous gland for optimum skin.
Using water that is too hot on oily skin can sometimes make the problem worse. It can end up stimulating more production from the sebaceous gland and thus creating more oily patches.
Hot water will trigger a defence mode in our bodies as it thinks the skin is under attack and therefore will produce more sebum to try to protect and nourish the skin.
Shave gels tend to dry out the skin in comparison to creams and foams. This can be a good thing if you are prone to oily skin. But, use it in conjunction with a moisturiser to rehydrate the skin and keep it looking fresh post-shave. Remember this is about balance, our skin is unique and we need to work with its quirks.
Oily skin is not a sign of overhydration, so don't stop using moisturiser. It is about choosing the right type of moisturiser instead. An oil-free moisturiser using natural ingredients will keep your skin looking hydrated without exasperating the problem.
If you have combination skin and your oily areas are the forehead and nose then only apply the oil-free moisturiser to these parts of the face (the t-zone). You can always use another product for the rest of your face.
Washing your face too many times during the day can lead to irritation and redness. The production of sebum to lubricate the face is a defence mechanism for irritation. So the fewer irritants men can inflict on their faces the better.
Overproduction of sebum can come from blocked pores. Prevent these by exfoliating twice a week. A good exfoliate will remove the top layer of skin and any dead cells, a core reason for blocked pores.
A face mask, used a couple of times a week is a great way to get some nutrients and antioxidants into the skin. Along with exfoliating, it will help unclog those blocked pores so your skin can breathe again. Look for a clay-based version which will help remove excess grease and grime at the same time.
Stress is a surefire way to increase hormone levels and get those glands working over time as a rise in hormones means more oil production. Take to time to realign your work-life balance and introduce ways to relieve tension.
The devil makes work for idle hands and this can be detrimental to your skin. In the inevitable case of a breakout try not to prod and poke your skin. If at the end of the day you notice a build-up of oil on the surface then use a toner pad to clear away the excess and not your fingers.
