The Evolution of Men’s Grooming:
Grooming, a notion that was associated with only women not so long ago has seen a tremendous shift towards men’s interest, primarily due to revolution in cultural norms.
Now more men are keen to pay a heed towards their grooming and appearances as they have access to a lot of information about products and services that can cater their need/wish to look the best that they can.
The increase in demand has resulted into rise of an industry dedicated to personalized needs of men’s grooming. From skincare, hair care to hygiene, the trend in response has escalated into a multi-billion-dollar mainstream industry within a decade.
It is no longer a niche market. Men now have fashion influencers and celebrities to take inspiration from. There is social media to get that information and products to the consumer. The modern man is willing to invest to express his individuality and personal style and the brands has responded quick in offering a gender neutral approach to this demand which is expanding and thriving.
And we cannot overrule the importance of grooming in personality development. A groomed person exudes confidence, positive energy and a professional demeanor which can make a lasting impression. Taking care of yourself can make you feel good and boost self-esteem
Here is a list of essential products/goods curated practically that a man should carry in his vanity/bag. Now definitely you should consider your lifestyle, needs, schedule and personal preferences, but this list will help you get started.
A Water Bottle:
Before anything else, you need to focus on health and staying hydrated is the foremost step. Any grooming/self-care product will work when you are hydrated and healthy from inside.
Whenever you are stepping out, make sure you carry a water bottle which could fit easily in your bag to sip throughout the day and do not forget to refill whenever you can.
Hand sanitizer:
Grooming is not only about skincare products, clothes and accessories, it actually starts with hygiene. Like said earlier, all efforts to look and feel good will align only with a healthy body.
Carry a sanitizer and use it frequently specially when travelling. You come in contact with many surfaces that are unclean and you do not have access to hand washing facility everywhere (though it is preferred to wash your hands with water and soap to clean them), the least you can do is use a sanitizer to disinfect.
First-aid essentials:
It is not emphasized much but it is a wise decision to carry first aid essentials. Carry a basic first-aid kit in your vanity that includes band-aids, analgesics and any other essential that you use in case of need.
Sunglasses:
If you do not wear numbered glasses or you use contact lens, take in account carrying a pair of sunglass to protect your eyes from not only ultraviolet radiations, but dirt, vehicle emitted pollution and sweat in hot weather. Your eyes are what you see the World with, you must protect them.
Oral Hygiene Products:
A toothbrush, a small toothpaste and dental floss may sound familiar ones and are fundamental items of vanity. We cannot stress enough the need of taking care of oral hygiene. You cannot afford to breathe bad odor and poor dental hygiene can also lead up to serious oral issues.
Skincare:
A facial cleanser, a moisturizer and a sunscreen with at least 50 SPF are three essentials to be carried in you vanity. To wash your face every morning and evening to remove all the dirt accumulated, followed by a hydrating moisturizer to keep flaky skin at bay and a sunscreen to protect from harmful solar radiation with regular application is a minimal but pertinent approach to keep your skin healthy, nourished and well-groomed.
Take travel size bottles with you so it gets easier to carry but carry all three in your vanity to stay refreshed.
Hair care Products:
This too implies in case you are planning to travel or you regularly workout. A shampoo at least is a must have in vanity especially if your use hair products like gels and waxes. It will help keep your scalp clean and hair healthy.
Grooming tools:
Even if you are planning for a day trip, you never know if you will have to stay longer. Consider keeping a razor, trimmer and a good quality nail clipper in your vanity to maintain your facial hair, clean nails and have a clean look.
Odour Management:
Deodorants (try getting your hands on organic ones with less or no harmful chemicals), to control body odor and a mild fragranced perfume for a signature impression is another preference. But don’t overdo perfume or the whole purpose will go for a toss.
Note: This list might not be exhaustive but can help you pick items based on your preferences, routines and specific needs.
