The Gen-Z Guide to Grooming

There comes a time in every guy’s life when those sweaty pits become just a little too smelly, when that itchy scalp starts to have just a little too much dandruff, when that facial hair needs just a little bit more active maintenance. At this daunting crossroads of personal hygiene, where do you begin taking grooming seriously? Fear not, for we’ve compiled the ultimate grooming guide to help you ease into the next phase of manhood with a clean chin and without the B.O.

Hair

Everyone knows the demoralizing effect that a bad hair day can have on your self-esteem—wouldn’t it be nice to have your own personal barber 24/7? And while a great cut is important, figuring out which shampoo works best for your hair and how often to use it ranks highly too. This is no easy feat: There are different shampoos for different hair types. Ask your stylist for their recommendation next time you get a haircut. Shampoo secured, you’ll want to purchase a solid conditioner to keep your hair moisturized—dry hair can be more susceptible to frizziness and breakage. Professionals recommend conditioning from the mid-shaft out as a way to keep your hair healthy. If all of this sounds daunting, opt for a weekly deep conditioner, like Sun Bum Hair Mask.

Face

Step one for clearer skin is simple: Wash your face. It’s not difficult, nor time-intensive—just use a quality cleanser once in the morning and once before bed—but this one action will go a long way toward keeping your complexion healthy and bright. Afterward, swipe on toner to remove any lingering dirt and oil. If your skin constantly feels dry or lifeless, try Thayers Hydrating Milky Face Toner. On the other hand, if your skin is generally oily, opt for Hero Cosmetics Balancing Capsule Toner.

Beyond ritualized washing, you should keep an acne serum in your medicine cabinet to ward off breakouts. But the best thing you can do for your face is wear sunscreen daily, as prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may lead to wrinkles, premature skin aging, and skin cancer. When choosing a moisturizer and lip balm, aim for products that include sunscreen in them.

Shaving

Hopefully, your dad gave you a lesson (or two) in shaving, because if you use the wrong technique or tools, your bathroom sink could look like a murder scene. When it comes to the tool portion of this equation, know this: Electric razors are more forgiving than blade razors, and they’re a great option for sensitive skin. For the cleanest shave possible, though, go with a blade razor and follow these tips:

Wet skin with warm water to relax the hairs—shaving after a hot shower is ideal—and cover the area with shaving cream or gel. Always shave with the grain. This means moving your razor in the same direction as your hair growth. Pulling against the grain can cause ingrown hairs. Next, if your desired look leaves you with anything more than moderate stubble on your chin, incorporate a beard wash into your hygiene routine. It will remove any buildup of dirt and bacteria. Finally, pick up a body trimmer and a nose, ear, and eyebrow trimmer to keep those other hairy regions under control.

Michael Strahan Daily Defense Clear Shaving Lotion

$12 at CVS

Loved01 Shave Cream

$10 at CVS

Harry's Men's Craft' Handle Razor

$17 at CVS

Philips Norelco OneBlade Face + Body Electric Trimmer

$58 at CVS

Scotch Porter Moisturizing Beard Wash

$12 at CVS

ConairMan Nose, Ear & Eyebrow Trimmer

$30 at CVS

Body

The skin on your face isn’t the only one that matters. Areas of your body can break out (hello, bacne!), chafe, and experience sensitivity. Luckily, there are many products specifically designed for all different skin types—and areas. For example, if you’re prone to getting body acne, try a spray-on defendant that allows you to proactively guard any part of your body (yes, even your back) against breakouts. Or, if you tend to experience redness and irritation when using lotions or washes, choose one specifically formulated for sensitive skin. To take your scent to the next level, consider purchasing a fragrance set—just be careful not to overapply. Pro tip: purchase a groin deodorant and toenail clippers. Taking care of these parts of your body will not go unnoticed, especially with the warm weather approaching.