GROOMED TO PERFECTION

The men’s grooming industry has boomed in recent years, with many men embracing the idea of having professional skincare and haircare treatments. We sent some brave men for professional grooming and skincare treatments to get their take on the popular trend. Some were regular spa customers, and for others it was their first time. Spoiler alert: they all loved it!

THERE’S NOTHING MORE APPEALING THAN A MAN WHO CARES ABOUT THE WAY HE LOOKS. FROM HAIRCUTS TO FACIALS TO LEG WAXING AND MASSAGES, WE PUT SOME MEN TO THE TEST

story and pictures sarah mackintosh

Armitage Outfitters

Glenn Duncan went to Armitage Outfitters in Park Square, uMhlanga, for a full house treatment. He had a haircut, ear and nose wax (ouch!), Acqua Di Parma Hot Towel Beard Grooming and an Acqua Di Parma Facial.

Glenn – who goes for regular grooming treatments – had this to say about his experience: “I would highly recommend these barbers – they have a world-class store with top-class treatments, products and service. I even took my son back later that day for a haircut, which was very affordable at R100.”

Sweeney's Barber Shop

Father and son duo, Dave and Oliver Mackintosh, visited Sweeney’s Barber Shop in uMhlanga for some pampering. Oliver had a cut and blow dry, while dad had a cut, blow dry and shave. Both came out looking very smart!

Oliver loved the “cool style” Lazlo gave him, and was so excited to have his hair blow dried and styled for the first time ever – and was super proud of his new cool look. Dave is a DIY kind of guy and doesn’t often go to a barber. “I enjoyed the shave and it left my face feeling very smooth and looking incredibly neat. I battle with ingrown hairs, but this treatment didn’t leave my skin feeling irritated at all. It was very gentle on my skin. And my haircut is great – much better than a DIY shave at home!” said Dave. Sorbet Man Gateway

Tilesh Bhoola enjoyed a Dermalogica steam shave, with Express Facial at Sorbet Man in Gateway.

“I’ve had a facial and steam shave before – both as individual treatments – but today was a different experience having them done together,” said Tilesh. “I would definitely recommend this to friends – it was finally ‘me-time’ where I was totally relaxed and doing something for myself. I now get why my wife loves going to the spa and salon as often as she does! Shaka, my therapist at Sorbet Man, made my experience exceptional. He explained what the treatment comprised of, then did a skin analysis to ensure the correct products were used. The treatment was so relaxing, I think I actually

dozed off. I enjoyed the professionalism of the salon as well as the adherence to safety protocols. I feel and see a difference in my skin. It definitely looks brighter!” »

it was finally ‘me-time’ where I was totally relaxed and doing something for myself

M-E-G

John Aritho, GM at Beverly Hills Hotel, visited M-E-G for a sports massage and a Repair and Hydrate Classic Indulgence Facial customised with LED Light Therapy, and male grooming. This skin treatment included a lactic acid peel and a cucumber-infused massage oil, with manual lymph drainage for sinus congestion and tired eyes – completed with some deeper neck and upper shoulder release.

This was John’s first M-E-G experience – and says it will now be his new go-to place for grooming and spa treatments. “My experience was magical, a must-do for men, especially men over 40 as that’s when your body needs more attention,” said John. “Greg, my massage therapist, was amazing – he has experience in professional sports massage, so he gave me excellent advice on an old sports injury.

“Shana, the owner, did my facial treatments. She’s fantastic – very hands-on and makes clients feel special. I would definitely recommend M-E-G to others.” WAXIT Ballito

Stefan Terblanche visited WAXIT Ballito for a leg wax. This was a first for Stefan, and he bravely agreed to give it a try.

“I have never waxed my legs before, so when The Ridge asked if I would like to have my legs waxed, I thought ‘Why not?’. It’s a bit sore and I can see why some people won’t do it. Thanks to WAXIT for the experience. Even though not entirely painless, it was pleasant!” said Stefan.

“The staff were nice and friendly, the service was good and it was done professionally and quickly without rushing me.” *

FOR MORE INFO ARMITAGE OUTFITTERS: 031 648 0031/082 331 5175; www.armitageoutfitters.co.za SWEENEY’S BARBER SHOP: 079 931 4047; or book online at www.sweeneys.durban SORBET MAN GATEWAY: 031 566 1290; www.sorbet.co.za M-E-G: 031 821 0018/084 810 3540; www.m-e-g.co.za WAXIT BALLITO: 076 078 1876; www.waxit.co.za