A letter to men on getting a new look this new year and presenting the best version of themselves
Skincare doesn’t have to be so complicated.
By: Connor Taylor-Parton
If you haven’t got the memo, 2023 is the year we pull ourselves together, present the best version of ourselves to the world, and, most importantly, show ourselves what we’re capable of.
There are countless philosophers who, when discussing going out there and getting what we want, all state that we must first start with the little things and be disciplined. Some go further and say you need to live a reasonably active lifestyle. This begins with making our bed in the morning and tidying our room, having a clean diet, and cutting out any unhealthy habits such as snacking on greasy foods, smoking or drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
All these things most of us would agree upon. But where do we go from here?
We need to be honest with ourselves; beyond having a tidy room, a made bed and cutting out bad habits, we need routine. Neuroscientist Matthew Walker has shared research on just how vital sleep is, both REM and non-REM sleep. It dramatically impacts our ability to be productive and, more than anything, our long-term health.
Now you’ve addressed your bad habits and poor sleeping routine, the next is making yourself presentable to the world - you can do this by regularly keeping yourself groomed and incorporating a skincare routine into your day-to-day life.
We’ve pulled a list of essential things you can incorporate to get the best version of yourself.
READ:
New Year New Me: Gadgets to help you on your fitness goals
Stylish men’s laptop bags that are perfect for commuting
1. Skincare
Skincare doesn’t have to be so complicated. It’s relatively simple. When you’re in the shower, use an exfoliator to wash your face and remove any grit buried within your pores with flannel and lukewarm water. Once you’ve washed your face off, use slightly colder water to close the pores. Pat dry and follow up with a moisturiser. Ideally, use a moisturiser twice a day, once after washing your face in the morning and once before bed, for best results, but just once is better than none.
Differin, Daily Brightening Exfoliator, six fl oz (177 ml)
Improve the texture and tone of your skin by using this daily brightening exfoliator.
Eucerin, Daily Protection Face Lotion & Sunscreen, SPF 30, Fragrance-Free, four fl oz (118 ml)
RM45.86 RM50.96 at iHerb Malaysia
Apply this lotion daily to moisturise and protect your skin. It has SPF 30 formulated in its ingredients, protecting you from the damage UV rays can cause over the long term and preventing wrinkles.
2. Grooming
Pick one day a week to spend half an hour grooming. This doesn’t mean you have to be clean-shaven, but it’s all the difference. Get rid of the neckbeard and line up the edges, so it sits in line with the bottom of your jaw as you look directly from the front in the mirror.
Braun Series 5 50-M1000s Electric Shaver for Men
RM475 RM585 at Lazada Malaysia
This rechargeable Wet & Dry Electric Razor with Trimmer Black White Lining is perfect for keeping things tight and tidy. It comes with three connectable grades that contour to the shape of your face. And it’s 100% waterproof so you can take it into the shower.
Gillette Fusion Proglide Power Styler Razor 3 in 1 Trim + Shave + Edge Waterproof Trimmer
For an affordable price, get a precision edging blade to ensure the edge of your stubble looks crisp.
Showsee Electric Mini Nose trimmers
RM17.80 RM59 at Lazada Malaysia
There’s no excuse. Trim your nose hair whenever you start to notice them growing out. The head of this nose timer can be removed and washed after use.
Natrol, Melatonin, Extra Strength, 5 mg, 60 Tablets
As we discussed earlier just how vital sleep is, routine is the most significant way to get your body the efficient rest it needs, but sometimes you need a helping hand, which comes in Melatonin.
3. Watches
Watches serve two purposes. They keep track of time without the need to take your phone out of your pocket. And, of course, keeping track of time is crucial in ensuring discipline in all areas of your life. Secondly, just by being an attractive accessory, they can transform your outfit from what looks like you’ve just pulled out random clothes in your wardrobe to a look that shows you’ve made an effort.
TIMEX
Featuring a classy leather trap with a more vintage feel in its display. The TIMEX logo sits at the heart of the watch, and the black details complement the stainless steel.
Stuhrling Symphony 3970.1 Watch
For a more minimalistic and modern look, this Stuhrling stainless steel and black watch is perfect for all occasions and can be worn for both formal and casual occasions.
