Let me tell you. Nothing beats a man who smells good, but taking care of yourself isn’t just about attracting a significant other. It’s about feeling confident, staying healthy, and presenting the best version of yourself to the world.
See, us ladies have been on the “self-care” train for a while now and we know just how impactful our beauty routines can be for our overall well being. And no, I’m not suggesting you run to Sephora for a 7-step skin care routine! Good hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but it does require consistency.
Here’s a simple yet effective guide to keeping yourself fresh, clean, and well-groomed every day.
Shower Daily
I once knew a guy whose sense of smell was permanently damaged from COVID. As a result, he didn’t know when he was smelling funky. Because he couldn’t smell himself, he just didn’t take a daily shower. It might seem obvious, but showering daily (or at least every other day) is essential to washing away dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Level it up by using a washcloth and a body wash with salicylic acid to truly destroy bacteria causing odor, not just mask it.
Being squeaky clean not only welcomes people into your physical space, but it helps you to feel good about yourself. There’s a strong psychological link to feeling productive and pulled together when you’re clean. Take advantage of it!
Use Deodorant (and Maybe Cologne, Too)
On that same note, make sure you’re applying a liberal amount of antiperspirant daily. I have been known to outright exclaim, “Dang, you smell so good!” after hugging a man wearing the Dove Men+Care 72-Hour Dry Spray Antiperspirant & Deodorant in Clean Comfort. I’m going to let you in on a little secret – men who smell good gain at least two more levels of attractiveness. And if you really want to level up, try an additional scent like the highly rated Kenneth Cole body spray. If you’re a man who likes to shop, treat yourself to Bath and Body Works and sample their men’s fragrances. Have some fun finding your signature scent! Choose accents like cedarwood or bergamot that will make your future wife think, “Oh, this smell reminds me of John…”.
How much should you wear daily? A couple of spritzes on your neck and wrists is enough!
Oral Hygiene: More Than Just Brushing
Bad breath is right up there with body odor as a totally avoidable misfortune—but it can sully an otherwise good date, workplace reputation, or elevator ride with a stranger just as easily. There’s been lots of times where a man will approach me after I speak at a conference and my fight or flight kicks in because of his breath. Don’t let this be you! And don’t skimp on flossing – no, your dentist didn’t pay me to say that. Make it extra easy for yourself and purchase disposable flossers – it’ll become a nightly habit before you know it. Did you know that you’re supposed to use mouthwash before you brush your teeth? Mouthwash is the big bad bacteria killer (a.k.a., what causes bad breath) while toothpaste cleans and protects your gums. Try an alcohol free mouthwash like TheraBreath’s Deep Clean and top it off with the classic Crest 3D White toothpaste.
Lastly – and I can’t stress this enough. Make sure you’re brushing your tongue. Most of the odor causing bacteria in your mouth is on your tongue – so if you don’t brush it, your breath will still stink. Serious about your oral hygiene? Try a tongue scraper. Trust me guys, you’re 10x more likely to win over a girl if your breath doesn’t smell.
Nail Care Matters
Keep the nails short! Long, dirty fingernails and toenails on men is an instant turnoff for women. Trimmed, clean, and free of dirt is the best practice – which means you should be cutting them at least every two weeks. Well-groomed hands and feet show that you take the time to care for yourself.
Keep Your Hair (and Beard) Well-Groomed
Whether you rock a full beard, stubble, or a clean-shaven look, keeping it tidy is key. Trim your beard regularly, and if you’re clean-shaven, make sure to use a sharp razor and shaving cream to avoid irritation. You can’t go wrong with Gillette. If you have a beard, treat yourself to a beard balm! Did you know that there’s actually a Catholic Balm company that sells beard balms that smell like chrism (a.k.a, the best smell in the world?). How’s that for super masculine self-care?
Skincare
Everybody deserves nice skin! If you’re someone who struggles with acne or dry skin – this will be particularly helpful. If you have acne or blackheads, you want to use a face wash that has salicylic acid in it to exfoliate and remove bacteria and oil build up. Complete the routine with a gentle moisturizer. If you have dry skin try a hydrating wash face and a heavier duty moisturizer. CereVe is an affordable, dermatologist recommended option. Level up your face washing routine by using a simple washcloth to gently scrub away dead skin, oil, and debris that accumulates over the day (especially if you work out!).
Final Thoughts
Good hygiene isn’t about being perfect—it’s about building simple habits that make you feel and look your best. When you take care of yourself, you’ll not only feel more confident, but people around you will notice and appreciate the effort. It’s an easy way to show respect for yourself and others. Lastly, remember that you deserve to take care of yourself.
You deserve to take time every day, caring for your body – you’ll be surprised at how it positively affects your mind as well.
