Let's hear it for the boys...

I know there are some of the male population out there who do read my blog, and I have actually been asked to write a piece on male grooming. As you probably know, this isn't my area of expertise, but never one to turn down a challenge, I gracefully accepted. So here goes...

'Male grooming' as it is now fondly known as is big business, huge in fact. According to facts, the male grooming market is worth around 806 million of our Great British pounds. That's a huge slice of market share to tap into, and own. Let’s face it, it is acceptable for men nowadays to look after themselves! A splash of aftershave here, a sweep of after shave balm there, we have given rise to a new generation of image (and skin conscious) men. Celebs like David Beckham & Patrick Dempsey (who can forget his 'dreamy' adverts for L’Oreal Men) have made it acceptable for the average Joe to, shall we say, 'take more pride in their appearance'. 

Now, I do like it when a man looks after himself. Well groomed men who smell nice, have nice skin, and dress nicely are a huge turn on. However, its taking things a little bit far when your boyfriend/object of desire looks better in skinny jeans & eye liner than you do! Please, don't take longer to get ready than we do, wear makeup or pluck your eyebrow hairs more than is necessary. Guys, whatever you do, this 'is it a boy/girl?' look is not good. 

But, taking pride and care of your appearance is. The skin care company Nivea jumped on the bandwagon a long while ago by launching their line of male orientated products, aptly titled 'Nivea for Men'. Prices are, if I do say so, a little expensive, but if it’s after shave balm or moisturiser you’re after, then you won't be disappointed. Nivea are a long standing company with an excellent reputation for creating good quality skincare products. If you aren't keen on smelling like you've just walked out of a spa day, then 'Vaseline' do some great, fragrance free products. Their 'Intensive Rescue Moisture Locking Body Lotion' is perfect for application after a shower/bath. Similarly, their lip balm (invest in the blue tin, it doesn't have a fragrance) is a great essential for keeping cracked skin at bay.  

Guys, you all have female friends. You can learn a thing or two from them! Next time your friends/flatmates whip out some hand cream/Vaseline ask to borrow some. I'm sure they won't mind. Or, next time you’re in town; don't be scared to venture down the male grooming isle in Boots/Superdrug. Buy products and test them to find the ones that suit you. Taking a little extra time to look after yourself during the day can work wonders. Get into grooming habits now, and soon those eligible women out there will be (hopefully) fighting over you!