Grooming for men is no longer a shameful secret, but many are still failing to make the most of what’s available to them – or of themselves. The vast majority continue to be satisfied with a good shave and a quick fiddle with their hair, but while you may be able to get away with it in the winter, there is far more to consider when it comes to summer. Heat, sunshine and dry air can all wreak havoc on your skin, so it’s no longer simply looking good that’s important, but protecting yourself from environmental stressors, too.
Here’s our guide to staying ahead of the grooming game this summer – no loss of manliness required.
1. Jetting off on holiday? Low humidity in aircraft cabins can sap skin of the essential moisture it needs to maintain its usual state, leaving it feeling parched and uncomfortable. Hydrate from within by keeping your glass topped up with water, and avoid the likes of tea, coffee and alcohol, which can all contribute to dehydration. Take a good moisturiser along for the ride, too (or nick your girlfriend’s facial spritz), and apply as soon as you’ve settled into your seat. If you’re flying longhaul, then re-apply mid-way through the journey, and again where necessary.
2.You might be tired of hearing it, but we, for one, will never stop banging on about the importance of wearing sunscreen. Believe it or not, sunburn doesn’t stop at the painful red skin it leaves behind, and every time you come in from a day by the pool resembling an angry lobster, you’re putting yourself at risk of damage to your DNA. This can lead to dangerous cell mutations – something to be avoided at all costs, sun worshipper or not. Choose a formula with a high SPF and reapply at regular intervals throughout the day. Every couple of hours is best, regardless of the factor you’re using – and don’t forget to put some more on whenever you’ve been for a dip in the pool or the sea.
3. Men are often the first to neglect their lips, but sun damage doesn’t discriminate – where there’s skin, there’s risk, so layer up with a protective balm or lip salve and reapply after each drink, and as often needed when dryness strikes.
4. Switch up your fragrance for summer. Heat intensifies fragrance, so if yours is already potent and contains rich, woody notes, then trade it in for a lighter, zestier fragrance for the warmer months. Try citrus notes or bergamot for a fresh and energising choice.
5. Oily hair is never a good look, and warmer weather can often exacerbate the issue. Add to that the unavoidable problem of sweat, and your hair will be looking slick in all the wrong ways. To combat the issue, try spritzing a dry shampoo sparingly into the roots, and massaging in thoroughly. This will help by mopping up excess oil, and will add a little bit of extra volume, to boot.
6. Keeping hair out of your face is often your best bet when heat and humidity strike. Opt for a high-shine pomade for balmy summer evenings in order to tame frizz and fly-aways, whilst simultaneously keeping you cool. To style, sweep hair upwards and backwards and smooth into place – use a hairdryer for added volume, if you can take the heat. If you’ve got a fringe, then now is the time to say goodbye – they tend to soak up excess oil from the forehead, leaving you looking nothing more than a hot mess.