Listen up, gents (and ladies with a special fella): you shouldn’t be left in the dark when it comes to grooming, because from your facial hair to your cologne, there’s a good chance you’re doing it, well, wrong. But fear not. We consulted grooming guru Nathan Jancauskas, founder of men’s grooming store MEN’s BIZ, to discover the most common grooming mistakes men make, and his top tips to fix them.
“I founded MEN’s BIZ on the philosophy of ‘a better life through better grooming.’ We spend so much time doing these simple tasks over the course of our lifetime that it is such a shame to not enjoy the process. For those who don’t think this is possible, try shaving with a coconut shave cream or brushing your teeth with a liquorice toothpaste – life changing!” – Nathan Jancauskas
6 common grooming mistakes men make + how to fix ’em
The mistake: going against the grain
The solution: “Slow down! Shave with the grain and don’t leave any rouge hairs behind. Rinse your face, then run your had over to inspect for any hairs you may have missed – if you’ve missed any, re-lather before slicing them off!” says Nathan. “Invest in a good razor, like the Merkur Solingen heavy duty double edge razor, and always finish with an aftershave balm. A lot of guys use an alcohol-based splash or nothing at all, which is crazy because this is when your skin needs soothing, comfort and moisture the most! I recommend Geo.F.Trumper’s Sandalwood Skin Food.”
The mistake: un-kept hair
The solution: Visit your barber regularly for a hair cut and shave or beard trim so you’re are always looking sharp and put-together. Another reason to keep it clean and tidy? Your partner won’t complain about being left with that dreaded pash-rash after a make-out session – win!
The mistake: forgoing moisturiser
The solution: Nathan recommends using a moisturiser with SPF to not only prevent sun damage, but also nourish the skin to help reduce shaving irritation, unsightly bumps and painful ingrown hairs.
Try: Clinique For Men Protect SPF Lotion or Nivea Men Protective Moisturiser
The mistake: too much cologne
The solution: If there’s one thing guys are guilty of, it’s overloading the cologne. Less is always more! Spritz onto neck, chest and pulse points. Nathan also suggests trying a transeasonal scent like Tauer’s L’Air du Désert Marocain, as heavier, spicier fragrances can be quite overwhelming.
The mistake: too much or poorly applied hair styling products
The solution: “Once again gents, less is always best!” says Nathan. Use only a small amount (around the size of a 10 cent piece) of styling product and work it through damp hair. And make sure you wash hair thoroughly to avoid product build-up – no one likes greasy-looking hair.
The mistake: dirty or untidy hands/fingernails
The solution: Manicures and pedicures aren’t just for the ladies! But if you find the local nail salon intimating, try tidying up your hands and toes at home (your significant other may provide some help) or visit a men’s lounge.
MEN’S BIZ
Royal Arcade
Shop 49
335 Bourke Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
Strand Arcade
Shop 15, Ground Floor
412-414 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Website: www.mensbiz.com.au
