Words: Anna Galbraith
It used to be that the only gentlemen on the planet who had to ensure that they always looked photo-ready were the A-listers contending with hounding paparazzi and regular trips down the red carpet. But it’s 2019 and the times, they are a-changin’. The Dawn of the Selfie (alongside the extraordinary advancement of smartphone cameras) now means that no man may consider himself safe from having his photo snapped in any number of unflattering circumstances.
With this in mind, we called on the groomer relied upon by some of the world’s most handsome (and regularly photographed) gentlemen, to give us her expert advice and top-recommended products for ensuring you stay selfie-ready this summer.
Build the right foundation for your skin
Any good grooming routine starts by laying down a good foundation to build upon. As Kristan explains, the goal when you prepare your skin for facing the day, is to ensure that it stays hydrated, balanced and fresh-looking.
“To achieve each of these, you’ll need to rely on the trio of a cleanser, toner and moisturiser,” says Kristan, “they are absolute essentials for any man’s bathroom cabinet.”
Keep a pack of blotters in your pocket
If the thought of getting your picture snapped in the heat of the summer holiday sun is enough to bring you out in a bead-sweat, then we sympathise. Nobody wants to look back on the trip of a lifetime only to discover you spent the whole time looking incredibly shiny.
Kristan’s solution? Invest in a packet of blotters. “Blotters are a highly misunderstood — and therefore under-appreciated — male grooming tool,” she says. “No other single product refreshes and safeguards your face like this. They work to curtail sweat, humidity and that annoying oily shine, all in one convenient, on-the-go sheet.”
Avoid any flyaways with a reliable hair paste
“In my job, I’ve learnt that even the most precisely-staged photo op can become a laughable, hair-raising moment with a simple gust of wind,” says Kristan. “Regardless of the style, texture, or length of your hair — you need to arm yourself against frizzy fly-aways.”
“I’m not suggesting an impenetrable epoxy spray that’s ready to withstand hurricane winds,” she clarifies, “but instead a range of hair-healthy styling products with the versatility to control annoying flyaway hairs.” For the purpose, she recommends this paste by Anchors Aweigh Hair Co.
Give yourself a hand with a moisturising lotion
Dry, cracked skin on your hands and fingers can be a serious giveaway that your grooming routine needs rejuvenating. As Kristan explains, “a man’s skin is about 25% thicker and has a far tougher texture than a woman’s. They also lack Sebaceous glands, which makes them more prone to drying out.”
This, she explains, means that it is crucial for a man to invest in a moisturiser that’s been specifically designed for the purpose. “A quality hand lotion will not only protect your hands,” she explains, “ but it will also make them softer and properly hydrated.”
Don’t be afraid to invest in a concealer
You might remember that we championed a more progressive approach when it comes to make-up for men a couple of months ago. And, if you suffer with any kind of skin dullness, redness or an unfortunate susceptibility to dark circles after a night of drinking, then a trusty concealer is your new best friend.
If it helps, Kristan recommends that you don’t think of concealer as makeup, but rather “an essential part of male grooming that discreetly covers up imperfections including blemishes, age spots, birthmarks and large pores.” And application couldn’t be easier: “simply dab a small amount directly on the area of concern, and gently rub the product with your fingertip until the concealer blends and colour-corrects the skin for a more uniform appearance.”
If you want to see more of Kristan’s work, take a look at her Instagram page: @serafinosays
Looking for more grooming advice? Scrub up your summer skincare with these expert tips on exfoliation…
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