At Gillette, we want every man to feel well-groomed, all of the time. But we know that can mean very different things to different guys. For some, it means being completely clean-shaven, while for others itās all about staying fit and toned, or perhaps behaving in a way they feel proud of all of the time. We asked menās skincare blogger Mister Wharff what being well-groomed means to him, and we think his advice will resonate with many.
What makes you feel well-groomed? Is it getting up as early as possible to make the most of the day ahead? Having a fresh, clean shave each day? Or perhaps itās spraying yourself with your favourite scent that instantly makes you feel masculine and confident?
Whatever it is, feeling well-groomed can put you in the best position to take on anything that the day throws at you.
However, being well-groomed isnāt just about wearing your best attire or rocking a particular look - it's also about self-worth and respecting yourself as an individual.
Here are five steps that help me to feel well-groomed. I hope that following these will help you to unlock the best-groomed version of you.
1. Look After Your Skin
I like to take the time to cleanse my skin every day, spending at least 30 to 60 seconds massaging the product into my skin before rinsing it off with fresh, warm water.
For me, this provides a sense of pleasure, as I know Iām removing any build-up of sweat and dirt from my skin, which always feels oddly satisfying.
The repetitive massaging movements can feel therapeutic, and I know that within minutes of waking up Iāve done something to benefit my appearance and how Iāll feel for the rest of the day, which immediately helps me to feel more well-groomed.
2. Donāt Underestimate the Power of Exercise
Working out has become a key element of my busy weekly schedule. Exercise releases endorphins, which allows me to start my day feeling positive. Sometimes releasing stress and anger in the gym is the key to unlocking the well-groomed man from within.
The gym is my space to have a little āme timeā - it's become a sanctuary where I can focus on myself, and I now canāt imagine not going.
Looking after number one is vital for feeling as though youāre on top of things, so give yourself that time and focus to feel like your best self for the day ahead.
3. Take Pride in Yourself
Itās only recently that Iāve learnt itās not selfish to focus on myself. In the past, Iāve always put others first, whether itās been partners, friends or work, all with good intentions.
However, Iāve realised that I need to create my own time to shine if Iām going to become the best, most confident version of myself.
Taking pride in yourself and enjoying how that makes you feel will make you walk taller and hold your head higher, automatically making you feel well-groomed.
4. Put Your Best Face Forward
Ā Facial hair appears to be a trend thatās not going anywhere anytime soon, with beards helping some guys to feel more masculine and confident - and itās something that you can easily achieve (perhaps with a little patience), without having to spend any money.
Keeping your stubble neat and well-maintained will make you feel even more groomed, so itās important to get a high-performance razor to help you with the task.
However, some guys feel their best when theyāre clean-shaven - something that also requires a decent razor that can deliver a clean, smooth shave.
The Gillette SkinGuard Sensitive Razor is a good choice if youāre new to shaving or have especially sensitive skin, as it features lubrication before and after the blade, so youāll always be starting your day feeling good.
Alternatively, experience shaving on a completely different level with the GilletteLabs Heated Razor and enjoy a hot towel shave-like experience in the comfort of your own home - you'll certainly be feeling well-groomed after that.
5. Wave Goodbye to Bad Habits
Letās be honest - we all have bad habits, thereās no use denying it. From smoking to biting our nails, it doesnāt take a genius to work out that old habits are hard to break.
Bad habits are usually the result of stressful situations, so itās important to recognise this and look at how you can address the issues that triggered them in the first place. For example, take up a new hobby, reconnect with old friends, or find someone that you trust to confide in.
Try your best to stick with your new, better habits to keep your mind positively busy - soon, youāll have forgotten all about that bad habit.
Our habits can shape our sense of self, so by kicking any that we feel even slightly guilty about, we can travel further along the path to feeling well-groomed.
Main image credit: Natalie Lauren Wood