The Idle Man Presents
The Idle Guide To Grooming By The Idle Man Published by Idle Projects Copyright 2015 The Idle Man
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Contents Introduction
Hair Key Hair Trends for AW ‘15 Classic Haircuts That Will Never Go Out of Style How to Get the Perfect Haircut Choosing the Right Styling Product for Your Hair Type
Shaving
How to Grow and Maintain a Beard How to Get the Best Shave at Home How to Avoid Shaving Rash and Ingrown Hairs
Skincare
How to Recover After a Late Night
Body
A Beginner’s Guide to Male Waxing
Conclusion
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Introduction No matter how on-point your wardrobe is, if your hair, beard and skin aren’t up to scratch, your look will be ruined. We’re living in times where the male grooming industry is rivalling our female counterparts, so it’s time you fixed up and upped your game. That’s why we’ve made this free e-book, to get you looking your best with minimal effort.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for an on-trend cut or a timeless style to stick to for life, we’ve spoken to the barbers to find it for you. If you’ve got sensitive skin and out of control facial fuzz, we’ve got your solution. Feeling pretty good about your routine already but need a little advice on sorting out that rash you get after shaving? Look no further.
We’ve covered all the basics the modern man needs to worry about and we’ve kept it all as manageable as possible. No 1000 word essays, no overly complicated jargon, just straight-talking advice from the people that know best. So dive in and upgrade your grooming game.
- The Idle Man
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Key Hair Trends for AW ‘15 It may seem like the weather was just warming up, but the summer season is quickly drawing to a close. Soon, it will be time to break out the jumpers and eventually the overcoats. So with the changing weather, why not switch up your cut? We've asked 5 of London's top barbershops to give us their key hair trends to keep you looking fresh as the temperatures drop.
The Modern Pompadour
This style has been getting more and more popular over the last five years. Fashion goes in cycles so it was inevitable that stylish and neat cuts from the 20s-50s would make a resurgence. This has been helped by films such a Lawless and TV shows like Boardwalk Empire where characters have slicked and quiffed hair that worked well with the overall style. It's always had that attachment to rebels like bikers and edgy stars such as James Dean. Ask Your Barber: The Pompadour can be cut high and tight with clippers on the back and side. This gives a more drastic look coming straight from the mug shots of old school convicts. Equally in can be cut longer to embrace the rockers of the 50’s. Either way, you need the length on top to create the “pomped” quiff at the front, however, this can also be varied with a flat slick on top using a traditional style pomade or “grease”. How to Style: Don’t forget to try out this style with a side part for maximum neatness and, for the more edgy gent, try this part-shaved-in with a cut-throat razor. For day-to-day styling in a hurry, just add pomade and slick back. Going for something a bit more special? Have a go at twisting the comb in the front and blow-dry the height in & finish with a dash of pomade. -Drakes of London Barbershop
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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The New Quiff Probably the most timeless and flattering hair cut for gents of all ages. For AW ‘15 we see the quiff taking a more relaxed twist. Less dramatic on the sides and back with more length left and the volume and height left at the front. Ask your barber: A scissor cut all over; there should be no clippers in sight! This style needs to be shorter on the sides and back, with the side siting just on the ears and not above. There should be length left on the crown for weight and the front needs slight layering to create movement and to achieve a natural parting line. How to Style: On towel-dried hair spray 2 or 3 pumps of American Crew Alternator Spray and blow-dry your hair upwards using a vented hair brush, this will create natural looking volume. Keep this look lowshine for a modern twist by setting it with Fiber Paste by American Crew. Work a 10p size amount through your hands first before applying it to the hair from mid length to tips, avoiding the roots. This will keep it in place from day to night. -The Groom Room
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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Brushed Up A laid back style great for gents with thick hair and a fairly low-maintenance hairstyle as it doesn't matter if it gets a little messy. Ask your barber: This is a low clipper cut on the back and sides then blended up with scissors. Keep the top all one length (medium) and no thinning out! However, we would recommend going shorter on the sides and longer on top (Number one on the sides and Number three on top) to add a bit of interest and style to your cut. You can blend up from a 0 to a 3, which then becomes a skin fade. How to style: Start by applying a 5p piece of Ultramatte by American Crew on towel-dried hair and work it into the hair from the roots up. Using a vented brush and a hairdryer, lift the hair up applying the heat from the roots to tip. Once your hair is dry, apply a little Featherweight by Uppercut Deluxe as a finishing product. Featherweight is a soft wax that doesn't set too hard, so you will still have movement in the hair, as well as giving it a natural sheen. -Porters Barbers
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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The Modern Twist What’s old is new again. This updated version of an old classic is sure to impress. The shorter length means there’s less day-to-day maintenance than its longer cousin, the Pompadour, and the slick backed style keeps you looking sharp. Ask your barber: Ask your barber for a 0.5 low, faded into a number four. The key to this look is reliant texture. Ensure that the front of the hair is left full to allow the hair to sit back. The hair from the crown to the neck should lay flat as this will enhance the Pompadoured fringe. How to Style: You need a round brush, a hair dryer, and Pall Mall Barbers Pliable Clay. Blow-dry the hair going forward until you get to the front. Blow-dry the front of the hair backwards. This will give you volume and enhance the front of the hair. To get a matted look the hair needs to be bone dry. Place a small amount of the Pliable Clay through the mid-lengths and ends then put into place with the hands. -Daniel Davies, Pall Mall Barbers
Photo Credit: Pall Mall Barbers; Pinterest
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The Messy Mop A good barometer of what’s to come and the ultimate showcase of the latest trends is always the catwalk. Men’s Fashion Week is a great indicator of some of the hair trends we can expect to see filtering through to the salon. We’re steadily moving away from the heavily-barbered look of recent. Going are the tight skin fades, coming is a more textured, stylized look. A big trend on the up is natural, matt texture with product worked into the hair with fingers for an unfussy finish. We’ll be seeing more emphasis on fringes too. With either short angular numbers paired with heavily textured crops or longer, forward swept fringes using mattifying and movement-enhancing products. Ask Your Barber: For the stylized, unkempt look that is gracing the catwalks this season, head to a hair salon or a barber who is handy with the scissors. Not too unlike the quiff, maintain the length at the front of the head, above the recession, and take the crown shorter. This shorter area will naturally push the hair on top away from the crown towards the front of the head. The sides and back are scissor cut with a little texture to encourage softness, working forward to a disconnection at the front. How to Style: For styling, roughly dry using a sea salt spray for volume and texture. Finish with a little matt clay or similar product, working it into your hands before roughly pulling it through the hair with your fingers. You’re looking for product with a matt finish or slight sheen. -Luke Jacob Salon
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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Classic Haircuts That Will Never Go Out of Style With ever-changing fads, keeping up with the latest style can be exhausting. One day check is in, the next day it's out. The same goes for hairstyles, but unfortunately, your hair often isn't as easy to change as your shirt. The good news, though, is that some things never go out of style: a white Oxford shirt, a well-aged whisky, a classic car. Much like these timeless classics, there are certain hairstyles that will never go out of style. We've asked five of London's top barbers to give us their picks for hairstyles that will never go out of fashion. With a wide range of looks, you're bound to find one that suits you and can feel confident that you'll look sharp for years to come.
The Classic Side Part
A staple in every barbershop around the world since the turn of the 20th century, this hairstyle has never grown old. From the slick Hollywood glamour of the 1920s to the 1940s, then through the rise of rock ‘n’ roll with the 1950s pompadour, right up to the catwalks of 2015, this look is here to stay. Ask Your Barber: There have been many variants on this theme, which means it can be tailored to suit the zeitgeist of the day. Ask for length on the sides and slick flat with a shine pomade to get the more classic look. If you want the modern update, get a looser cut, with height at the front and a bald fade on the back and sides. How to Style By playing with variations of length it can make a younger man look older and make the older gentleman look younger. It works with most hair types, from curly to poker straight. Not a single day has gone by in the barbershop without me being asked for this all time great. -Drakes of London Barbershop
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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The Crew/Buzz Cut This style suits gents with strong features or an angular face. It also suits gents with a beard. The ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle - long gone are the days of it being just a military haircut. It's easy to manage and requires almost no maintenance. A more regular trip to the barbers might be in order to keep it looking short and smart. Ask your barber: This is a clipper cut all over, however, we would recommend going shorter on the sides and longer on top (number one on the sides and number three on top) to add a bit of interest and style to your cut. You can blend up form a zero to a three, which then becomes a skin fade. How to style: This hairstyle doesn't require any styling, however, if your hair starts to feel dry, use a tonic-daily such as Pashana Blue Orchid and rub it into your scalp and leave in. Make sure you condition your hair even if it is very short to prevent dandruff. -The Groom Room
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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Side Sweep This is a smart classic look. A very timeless hair cut for gents who rock the smart look every day but don't want to spend hours styling their hair in front of the mirror. Ask your barber: A scissor cut all over, keeping a medium length through the back and sides and slightly longer on top so you can sweep it over to one side. Taper the edges very lightly with clippers to add a clean and polished look. Keep to a natural parting line. How to style: Use a brush and hairdryer to sweep the majority of the hair to the preferred side, use a comb to add a straight parting and comb the hair back. Once it’s almost dry, add a pea size amount of American Crew Defining Paste lightly on top keep the hair in place. -Porters Barbers
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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Classic Ducktail Pompadour Retro Quiffs are timeless classics that will never go out of fashion. From Elvis to Ryan Gosling to The Ratpack, gentlemen are always going back to classic timeless styles. The great benefit to having this style is, when it grows out, a gentleman can still keep the shape of the haircut. We recommend you have your haircut every three to four weeks to keep sharp. What to ask your barber: Ask your barber for a classic-style pompadour with volume going from the front to occipital bone, with a ducks tail effect at the rear. The back and sides are 3mm at the base and faded in to a blend at the top of the ears. How to style at home: You need a small round brush, a hairdryer and a classic cutting comb, Pall Mall Barbers Gentleman's Pomade. Blow-dry freshly-washed hair, starting at the back and working your way to the front, moving the brush and dryer in a vertical motion to achieve volume. Once the hair is dried into place, use the comb to comb the hair into the center to create a "duck-tail" finish. -Jack Holding, Pall Mall Barbers
Photo Credit: Pall Mall Barbers; Pinterest
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The Crop Daniel Craig has been sporting this for an age. This works particularly well for older gents and for low-maintenance guys who don't want to spend too much time on their hair. It’s smart enough for the office and easily tousled and messed up at the weekend. Ask Your Barber: A gradual taper on the back and sides, keep it tight and close to the head and encourage a little texture on top. How to Style: Style using a clay or paste for a matt look, this will enhance the choppy texture. Rub into dry hair with your hands – no hairdryer or brush here. This is choice for gents with fine hair who wants to create thickness, or with short, thick hair who wants to remove weight. -Luke Jacob Salon
Photo Credit: Pinterest
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How to Get the Perfect Haircut The right haircut can make or break your look. From expressing your personal style to taming unruly locks, a good haircut can work wonders. Often, however, men do not know how to best approach getting the right style; that's where we're here to help. Detailed Research It's vital that you put the groundwork in and ‘shop around’. Research various establishments online, and see if they appeal to you and do not look too intimidating or over powering. Although cost is important, do not base your findings purely on price alone. Don't walk the streets on a whim looking for the perfect barbershop for your needs, as it just won't happen.
Photo Credit: BrBr Bullet
Consultation is Key Before anything practical happens, it's really important that you make sure that you are on the same page as your prospective barber. Bring as much info as you need to present your case. Whether it's images on your phone or an image of someone (not necessarily a celebrity) that you identify with. Your barber should have an idea of your style, but it's important to remember if you have to wear a suit in your working environment, explain the idea that you would like your haircut to be versatile with regards to its finish and texture, especially for dressed down or casual gatherings. This can be achieved by applying the particular hair care products that you prefer to use, for example, either a matt/dry/textured/slick or shiny look. Please note, communication and getting your barber to understand your needs is so important. If you do not feel comfortable in the consultation process, walk away.
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Photo Credit: The Versatile Gent
Preparation Do not arrive with over-styled hair, as you may give your barber preconceived ideas, and you could end up with the same haircut, or even a trim! A good idea is to bring along the particular finishing product that you are currently using, and your barber will be able to recommend an alternative if necessary. Do Not Be Shy A good barber will not talk over you, and he/she will always listen to your ideas. A skilled barber will also understand that you both reach your goals by collaboration, as ‘it takes two’. Be clear, but flexible (keep an open mind) with regard to your requirements, and you'll get a result that you will be very happy with.
Photo Credit: Spiegel
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Be Honest Be honest with yourself. Barbers are not magicians. We all want to look a bit younger, but it's important to have an achievable goal. There's nothing wrong with reaching for the moon, but catching a star is a great option. The right barber will help you get the perfect haircut.
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Barber “Worship” Don't feel that your relationship with your barber has to last forever, as loyalty really does have to be earned. Even barbers become complacent when it comes to clients' needs, and can get into the mindset of "I know what you want." It’s also important that neither client nor barber get lazy regarding their expectations, and keep things fresh. If the collaboration sours, find another barber. - Martyn Gayle, BrBr Bullet Men’s Barber Concept
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Choosing the Right Styling Product for Your Hair Type When it comes to choosing hair styling products, men generally tend to find it all a bit confusing. It’s understandable, there’s a gazillion products on the market and it can be a real minefield with way too many options on offer. There really are no one-product-fits-all scenarios in this case unfortunately, but at Jacks of London we try to help find the best match for you. It all depends on three things: your hair texture; your hairstyle; and the look that you want to achieve. We always recommend quality products over cost. The theory goes: why pay to get a quality haircut from a quality barbers (like Jacks of London), to then stick on some cheap gunk that will fail to optimise your barbers good work, and in turn your charm potential? Luckily for you, the men’s grooming market has expanded beyond the 90s wet look gel, which though cheap, at 49p a pot, looked, well, pretty goddamn awful. So, we’ve tried our best to break through all the technical terms and extra flowery BS to simply bring you the hard facts. A no-nonsense three-step-guide to which products work best for which hair types.
Photo Credit: The Telegraph
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Classic Short Matte Finish A high proportion of manly styles are fairly simple short cuts that are pretty easy to manage. They still have the ability to reveal some of your personality through details such as a rugged texture, a quiff; or a blunt fringe, which your barber can cut into your hair, but the correct product is still key to pulling off the look. To achieve a simple yet styled looking finish, most clays, putties, waxes, shapers and molding creams (they come in a myriad of names, but can be put into the same category of products to manage short hair styles) will all do the job really well. These types of products are generally easy to wash out of your hair, so are perfect for daily use. They’re also ideal for men on the move, so great to stick in your gym bag or beach bag. We love Fudge Matte Hed, you don’t need too much in one use, go for roughly the size of a pea, it’s always better to underestimate the amount you need, so you can build it up to achieve the perfect finish. It’s great for creating definition and texture and we recommend applying it to dry hair.
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Pomade for the Slickback If one thing propelled the revival of this slick old-school gent’s product, then HBO’s Mad Men series can probably take the title. Don Draper, what a guy! The shiny finish and superior hold of pomades are what really separates them from hair waxes. Not too dissimilar to putties etc., pomades promote a stronger hold - more so than waxes - and leave a decent amount of shine. They adapt pretty well to most hair types, so whether you’ve got long, short or even curly or frizzy hair, a good pomade will soon whip your ‘do’ into shape.
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The great thing about a pomade is that, after it’s been applied, it doesn’t leave your hair too rigid. It provides excellent hold whilst still remaining pliable. The American Crew Pomade is one of our classic favourites. Rub it between your hands and apply through the hair, then comb or brush into place for a great sophisticated finish.
Photo Credit: TopPik
Styling Creams for Curls and Lengthy Locks For those of you lucky enough to pull off long tousled locks, the types of products we’ve talked about above are of little use; you’ll need something much softer and more conditioning. Generally more liquid-based than wax or pomade, a good styling cream will leave your hair manageable without drying it out and give just enough hold to emphasise the style of your barnet. It is both easy to wash out and easy to apply and we recommend that it’s always applied to dry or near dry hair. At Jacks we love the Moroccan Oil Hydrating Styling Cream, it is brilliantly hydrating (exactly as it says on the tin), and provides just enough hold to make you look like a true dandy.
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You can purchase all the talked about products and get even more advice from any of our Jacks of London stores – Find out where we are at www.jacksoflondon.co.uk, Also, keep an eye out for our new very-own Jacks of London True Gent product range coming soon! - Jacks of London
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How to Grow and Maintain a Beard "He that hath a beard is more than a youth, and he that hath no beard is less than a man” William Shakespeare. The first step to growing a Beard is really quite straightforward… stop shaving! However, the path to hirsute delight is paved with potential pitfalls. As such, the Captain has drawn long on his Briar pipe of experience and is simply delighted to offer his ten penny worth below. Let it grow, let it grow let it grow. Do not shave for at least six weeks, this will reveal where your beard growth is strongest, it’s best to avoid any trimming or shaping at this stage. Eat a wellbalanced diet. Your hair is an accurate statement of both your lifestyle choices and state of health. If within this initial period of experimentation your face becomes a tad itchy, I would advise moisturising your stubble with a good quality beard oil, be patient and rest assured you will grow through this irritation.
Photo Credit: Guerreisms
Don’t fall at the first hurdle. Ignore disparaging remarks made by your mother, friends, partners and/or work colleagues! Carry on! In time, visit a reputable barber who as an adept facial hair stylist and, given your raw hirsute canvas, will be able to sculpt your beard to suit your face shape, the cut of your jib and your
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individual beard hair-growth pattern. Avoid shampooing your beard too regularly as this can strip the hair cuticle of its natural oils. I would also advise against use of a hairdryer, as this is likely to dry out the hair further, causing it to become brittle and possibly break. Gently brushing your beard with a real wild-boar bristle brush will stimulate the growth. Do not trim your Beard or Moustache when wet. Applying beard oil to the wet hair and then combing through will enrich & condition whilst adding a beautiful sheen to your pride and joy. Use a light moustache wax to train the hair up and away from your upper lip and a stronger pomade to fine tune those oh-so perky tips.
Photo Credit: Ian Crockart
Imagine that you are training a wayward wisteria or errant puppy with coaxing, cajoling and reward, the reward being a bottle of Captain Fawcett’s finest Private Stock beard oil, along with a tin of my Expedition Strength moustache wax. In truth, combining patience and careful nurture, along with gentle persuasion, achieves great results. Wishing you the best of bally British luck in your venture. All hail the hirsute.
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How to Get the Best Shave at Home A question we often get asked at Pall Mall Barbers is: how do I get a good shave at home? So, we all sat down for an hour and put our heads together - fusing our collective 140 years’ experience of barbering - to put together a handy guide for getting that perfect shave at home. Shaving is something that should be enjoyed, after all – it shouldn’t feel like a chore. So let’s break the shave down into three sections: pre-shave, shave and post-shave.
Photo Credit: Genius.com
Pre-shave It’s always best to shave after a shower or hot bath as the hot water opens the pores and softens the hair on the face, making it easier to shave. While you’re in the shower or bath, make sure to cleanse your skin - preferably with an exfoliating scrub. This unblocks the pores and encourages the hairs to stand up. It’ll give you less resistance when shaving, preventing ingrown hairs. Next, apply a pre-shave oil to help lubricate the skin. This allows your razor to glide with more ease, and protects the skin from nicks and rashes. Keeping the skin clean and moisturised is as important as having a close shave, in our opinion. Finally, press a hot flannel against the face and hold for a minute. This helps soften the bristles, which decreases drag when shaving. Using a silver tipped badger hair shaving brush, whip your shaving cream or soap into a thick lather, and apply in circular motions. Top tip: Try adding a few drops of your pre-shave oil to the shaving cream for an even smoother shave.
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Shave First things first: always go with the grain the first time around. Shave with the direction of your hair growth, not against it. This prevents razor burn and irritation. Always pull the skin tight around area you are shaving - this prevents nicks on the skin. Have a think about the blade you’re using, too. If you have sensitive skin it’s advisable to go for a single blade razor like the Pall Mall Barbers Chrome or Resin Finish Safety Razor. A pack of ten blades - giving you twenty shaves - is only £1.50 per pack, on average. If your priority is a closer shave, then opt for a triple blade razor like the Pall Mall Barbers Resin Regal. This’ll get closer than any razor you’ve ever used and it’s stylish as well as ergonomic. Always remember to knock the stubble off your razor and rinse regularly to make sure no hair is trapped in the razor - this can affect the quality of your shave. The best way to get a really close shave is to shave against the grain the second time around. But go carefully, as this is when most men cut themselves. Pull the skin tight and don’t push hard - just allow the razor to glide. For best results when shaving against the grain, use a lubricating preshave oil. If you have sensitive skin, shaving against the grain isn’t advisable. Think about what’s more important to you: a too-close shave or clear, rash-free skin.
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Photo Credit: Oro Gold Review
Post-shave So you’ve followed the Pall Mall Barbers procedures and given yourself a fantastic shave, but next comes the part that 65% of men skip out altogether: the post-shave. After your face has been shaved it needs moisture putting back into it quickly, as well as protection from the elements. Use a post-shave lotion to rehydrate your skin, then place a cold towel over the face to close up your pores and lock in the moisture. Try putting a wringed-out cold flannel in a sandwich bag overnight in the fridge. That’ll wake you up in the mornings! Finally, finish with a moisturiser to soften the face. This will also serve as a barrier from daily dirt and impurities. Once you’ve closed up the pores and moisturised, splash a bit of your favourite aftershave on. We guarantee that if you follow the steps above before applying, it won’t sting!
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Photo Credit: Pall Mall Barbers
To get your own personal shaving plan and routine, why not book in with one of our Master Shavers for a shaving lesson? Pall Mall Barbers are committed to educating men on what grooming works for them, so if you have any shaving queries or questions please comment on Facebook or email us at info@pallmallbarbers.com. - Pall Mall Barbers
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How to Avoid Shaving Rash and Ingrown Hairs Shaving can come with its fair share of pitfalls, particularly when not approached with the level of care and consideration it deserves. The worst of these is undoubtedly the dreaded ingrown hair. Painful, unsightly, and a downright nuisance, they commonly cause all manner of discomfort to the sufferer, and to top it off, they can be a real nightmare to get rid of.
Photo Credit: Sharpologist
An ingrowing hair is essentially a normal hair that fails to break through the skin, continuing to grow beneath the top layer and resulting in a painful, swollen bump. This is a situation where prevention is most definitely better than cure, and it all begins with your daily shaving and skincare routine. If you don’t already own one, it’s time to purchase an exfoliator, as the thicker the layer of dead skin on your face, the harder it is for a hair to break through and grow straight, the way it should. Choose a gentle facial scrub or AHA toner and use religiously on a bi-weekly basis, sloughing away any debris and leaving you with a clean canvas on which to work.
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Photo Credit: CNBC
Preparation is of paramount importance when it comes to your shave, and failing to take the necessary steps will undoubtedly result in the redness, irritation, and ingrowing hairs you are trying to avoid. A generous application of The Bluebeards Revenge’s Pre-Shave Oil is a good place to start, as this will soften and moisturise the hairs and skin, eliminating the coarse hairs and dry skin that can cause snagging and making for a smoother and easier shave. For the main event, whip up a rich lather using a good quality shaving cream and brush – we like Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream and the ‘Vanguard’ brush by The Bluebeards Revenge. Using the brush again to apply will further exfoliate the skin while lifting each individual hair, minimising the risk of any stray bits of stubble remaining trapped beneath the skin. Shaving with the grain – not against it – will help to prevent irritation.
Photo Credit: My Home Improvement
Inflammation and redness are due to a bacterial infection under the skin; so to nip it in the bud, apply a post-shave balm to finish. Jack Dean’s Aftershave Balm is a good choice, as well as cooling ingredients like cucumber and seaweed, it’s also packed with anti-bacterial ingredients such as
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witch hazel and tea tree. For those already affected by this painful affliction, take heart – you’re not beyond help. Refrain from shaving for a few days and use a gentle facial scrub or clean, old toothbrush to carefully bring the hair to the skin’s surface. To aid the healing process, be sure to keep the area well moisturised, and for added healing benefits and a bit of pain relief to boot, a simple paste of aspirin and vitamin C can work wonders. - The Shaving Shack
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How to Recover from a Late Night Whether stretching the night to have a few more hours out drinking with your friends, or working on a deadline, we’ve all burned the midnight oil well into the wee hours of the morning, only to fully regret it the next day. Not only do you feel terrible, you often look exhausted as well. Don’t sweat. The next time you’re in this situation, we have a few quick remedies you can use to look well rested and energized, just in time for that big early morning meeting or long day.
Photo Credit: Huffington Post
Do Some Light Exercise If you’re feeling physically up to it, take a quick jog or a 5 minute session of stairs. Getting blood flowing through your body will remove the puffiness in your face after a long night and also give you a quick metabolic energy rush. Take a Long Shower A face wash for men will immediately remove oil and grime, in addition to feeding your skin with valuable nutrients. Having cleansed skin is imperative for looking fresh and ready to take on the day. The best men’s body wash or soap should contain natural essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus, which invigorate the senses and wake you up. Shampooing and conditioning your hair is also a smart idea, as cleansed and moisturized hair makes a guy look very well groomed. Do you often skip the conditioner? Don’t. This keeps your hair shiny and full, after shampooing it of dirt oil and grease.
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Shave or Trim Your Beard Nothing says you had a long night more than unmanaged facial hair. If you were up late drinking, your face will be bloated, causing hair to protrude less from the skin. To combat this problem, use a men’s face scrub to lift your facial hair from the skin, allowing for a close shave. This way, when the bloating subsidizes, a 5 o’clock shadow won’t magically appear. Also, be sure to use a natural men’s shave cream and aftershave as to not irritate the skin, since being dehydrated will cause razor burn and irritation.
Photo Credit: Rally Ree
Hydrate Your Face and Body We all know that when you sleep, your body repairs and rebuilds itself. Staying up late not only robs your body of this opportunity, but your face as well. Combat this by using a face moisturizer for men that will brighten your complexion and hydrate your face, giving it an energized look. One of the biggest factors when skin looks dull and tired is when it is dehydrated. If your eyes look tired as well, use a men’s eye cream that has caffeine in it. The caffeine stimulates blood around your eyes, removing bags and puffiness. Last, but not least, drink as much water as possible. A hydrated body is one that has energy. Eat a Light Breakfast If you’re hung over and your stomach can handle it, eat a little food and take a vitamin. Contrary to popular belief, avoid any type of high carb breakfast. A high carb breakfast will cause an immediate drop in blood sugar (aka energy) about an hour after you eat it- right when you need the energy the most. Ideally, a quick protein shake or some eggs is the best course of action.
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Photo Credit: YouTube
While men’s skincare and grooming products are usually quick and effective fixes, if you are in really bad shape, these other few methods should work even better: Desperation Tip #1: Grab two ice cubes (or cold spoons) and hold them over your eyes for about five minutes. Is it odd? Yes. Does it work? Yes. The cold will immediately reduce puffiness and your eyes; just don’t press hard or you could induce “ice burn” on your skin. The skin around the eyes is the most delicate on the body. Desperation Tip #2: To further stimulate blood flow and bring life back into your face: Find caffeinated tea bags (black or green preferably), soak them in warm water for two minutes, and then put them over your eyes. The caffeine will help circulate blood around your eyes, reducing puffiness and making them look more alert. Desperation Tip #3: When all else fails, drink a quick cup of tea (or coffee) to wake you up. Keep in mind, caffeine is hard on the digestive system, so if you’re hung over and think you might not be able to keep it down, it’s best to avoid caffeine altogether or at minimum, drink with a little food as mentioned in step four. - Brickell Men’s Products
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A Beginner’s Guide to Male Waxing 2015 and still a wax virgin? Once a bit of a taboo, waxing is now as everyday as going to the barbers and I believe the demand for male grooming services is only going one way. Luckily, there are a few therapists out there who understand that men don’t want to visit ladies beauty salons, they want a place to call their own, designed exclusively for men and where their particular grooming needs are truly understood. If you’re one of those men who’ve been procrastinating over booking that first appointment, here’s what you need to know.
Photo Credit: The Standard
Choosing a Male Waxing Specialist I’ve been trying to get guys talking about waxing for over nine years, yet, creating such a culture change has at times been a bit like turning an oil rig - everyone’s doing it, but no-one actually talks about it. Whilst this is now changing and men are being more open about their waxing habits, we realise you might not been keen to strike up a conversation at the bar along the lines of “where can I get a good nostril wax around here?” So you need to look at client reviews. A good grooming studio’s website will always have a list of testimonials which should include those from the last month or so. If you need more convincing or you’re not sure whether the testimonials are genuine, check out their listing on a reputable
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platform such as Wahanda where the venue is rated according to verified reviews over which the studio has no control. Google ratings, Facebook etc. are also good sources of client feedback. Other important things to look out for: - Professional training certification – Andy Rouillard of Axiom and Kim Lawless are recognised as two of the country’s leading waxing trainers and treatments provided by their certified therapists should give you consistent, high quality results. - Industry Association Accreditation – look for BABTAC registered therapists who are verified as being qualified and insured (www.babtac.com).
Photo Credit: Orchid Spa
It’s my first time – will it hurt? So I’m not gonna lie here, it won’t be your most favourite thing, first time or tenth time. But it’s quick and once the wax is off any discomfort is instantly gone. It’s like pulling off a plaster. I ask all my clients to rate the discomfort on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being I’m almost dead). Almost every one of them says it’s about a 6 but add that it’s so quick that it’s forgotten pretty instantly. Also, nearly every first time client will say that the whole experience was not as bad as they had anticipated. Chest and abdomen are commonly described as “smarting a bit,” with some men saying that in future they’d rather have a Brazilian (back, sac and crack) than their chest waxed. A back wax is straightforward and a nostril wax doesn’t hurt at all. So there you have it.
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Most of my clients have been coming to me for many years, so how bad can it be? You’re going to be just fine. Man up. Make the call.
Photo Credit: Yelp
How Should I Prepare? Hair needs to be about 1cm long before it can be waxed, particularly if it has been previously shaved. If your hair is long, a good therapist will carefully trim using clippers before the treatment. Gently exfoliate the area to be treated, beginning two or three days before your waxing appointment. This removes any dead skin and lifts the hair which makes it easier to remove and results in a smoother finish for you. Try Outback Organics Face & Body Scrub (ÂŁ8.99, 100ml).
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Photo Credit: Nivea Men's
What can I Expect Afterwards? It’s normal to experience slight redness or small bumps after waxing but these will usually subside within a day or so. For the best results, ‘cool, clean and calm’ are the key words to remember for 48 hours after waxing. Cool - Avoid hot baths or showers, saunas, steam rooms, sport and exercise - Avoid sunbathing (in any form including fake tan or sunbeds) Clean - Take loose, clean clothing to change into following your wax treatment - Try your best not to touch the waxed areas for a few days – this is one of the quickest ways to get spots! - Use clean bed linen on the night of your wax treatment Calm - Wear clean, loose fitting clothing and avoid friction - Avoid swimming – chlorine and freshly waxed skin are not a good combination - Don’t use deodorants, body sprays, powders, or lotions on the waxed area, other than the specialist products recommended by your waxing therapist. For a smooth and comfortable finish I recommend Outback Organics Post Wax Spray (£9.99, 100ml) on larger areas such as the back or chest. For calming and soothing intimate areas try Outback Organics Bush Balm (£11.99, 100ml).
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How Long Will I be Smooth? There should be little or no regrowth for around 10-14 days and then the hair will slowly begin to break through. If you’re new to waxing, it can take up to four treatments for your hair to get into a regular growth cycle, to give the best results ensuring you stay smoother for longer. For most men, waxing every five or six weeks will help maintain a super-smooth appearance. Don’t be tempted to shave in between treatments as this will interfere with establishing a consistent growth cycle. I promise it will be worth the wait!
- Gorilla Warfare
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Conclusion Hopefully you now feel a lot more confident in what hairstyles, shaving techniques and skin care routines are right for you. When it comes to a new hairstyle, it’s all about clearly describing what you want to your barber and choosing the right product for you when yo’re styling your new do. Usually, being open and vocal with your barber will sort this all out for you. You just need to know if you’re the sort of person that wants to try the latest trend or stick to a timeless style. If you’re shaving at home, it’s all in the prep. Get your skin ready with the right treatments and balms to ensure it’s a smooth and cut-free process. Then, get the right razor for you, we don’t all want the closest shave possible and every razor is different. If you’re looking to grow an impressive beard, captain Fawcett’s advice is simple - stop shaving, be patient and nurture your growing whiskers. The process is a long and sometimes irritating one, don’t be put off by mocking friends or unimpressed mothers! If you’re looking for the total opposite, and you’re heading for a waxing salon, it’s all in the cleanliness. You can get yourself some exfoliators and balms to make the experience less painful and the healing process quicker. Do not cave into the urge to shave! Finally, when it comes to general skin care, it’s all in the hydration of the skin. Get the right moisturiser, eat well and keep active, a glowing and healthy skin will soon follow. So there you have it. You should be fully prepared to grab your razor (or not) and complete your look with ease. - The Idle Man
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CONTACT US THE IDLE MAN Website: theidleman.com Email: help@theidleman.com SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook: facebook.com/Idle Twitter: @idle Instagram: @idle Tumblr: idle.tumblr.com
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