In the hustle and bustle of daily life, grooming tends to be an afterthought for many Nigerian men. However, investing in some essential grooming products can make a big difference in your appearance and confidence. This article explores our handpicked essential grooming essentials that you need.
In a society where first impressions matter, personal hygiene plays an important role in how you present yourself to the world. Seemingly mundane things like a neat hairstyle, smooth/clear skin, are often overlooked. Grooming isn’t just about looking good, It also means feeling good.
For men, grooming should not be just a daily routine, but an expression of masculine pride and personal identity. Whether you’re going to a business meeting, a social gathering, or just going about your daily life, taking care of your appearance is a form of self-esteem and confidence
Hair care
Shampoo
Regular hair washing is essential to maintain clean and healthy hair, especially in Nigeria’s humid climate. To achieve effective cleansing without stripping natural oils, it is important to choose the right shampoo for your hair type. Look for shampoos specifically tailored to your hair texture, whether it’s curly, straight, or something in between. In addition, choose shampoos that contain natural ingredients that nourish the scalp and promote hair growth.
Conditioner
Conditioner is an essential part of your hair care routine as it moisturises and softens your hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage. Using conditioner after shampooing restores the moisture lost during washing, leaving your hair smooth, shiny, and easy to style. If you suffer from having dry and coarse hair, moisturising conditioners rich in ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil are super effective.
Hair oil
In general haircare, hair oil plays an important role in the care and strengthening of hair. Natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, and argan oil are common treatments to promote hair health and prevent dryness and breakage. Massaging a few drops of oil into your scalp and hair strands will help moisturise your hair follicles, improve blood circulation, and increase shine. Incorporating hair oil into your daily care can contribute to healthier, more bouncy hair over time.
Hair styling products
Whether you prefer a polished, well-groomed look or a more relaxed, messy style, the right hair styling products can improve your grooming experience. Pomades, hair gels, and styling creams are the most commonly used products for shaping and modelling hair.
The pomade provides medium to strong hold and a glossy finish, making it perfect for classic hairstyles. Hair gel provides maximum hold and definition, perfect for a sharp, textured look. Try out different styling products to find one that suits your hair type and desired style.
Skincare
Cleansers
Cleansing is the cornerstone of an effective skincare routine, especially for Nigerian men who are exposed to dust, pollution, and moisture on a daily basis. A gentle cleanser helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Look for a face wash that suits your skin type, whether it’s oily, dry, or sensitive. Foaming cleansers are best for oily skin types, while cream or gel cleansers are better for dry or combination skin. Incorporating a cleanser into your skin care routine will keep your skin clean, fresh, and remove impurities.
Moisturise
Skin hydration is essential to maintain healthy skin, especially in Nigeria’s hot and humid climate. Moisturisers replenish lost moisture, relieve irritation, and improve skin elasticity. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that won’t clog your pores or leave your skin feeling greasy. Look for a moisturiser rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera to keep your skin soft, supple, and well-hydrated all day long. Incorporating a moisturiser into your daily skin care routine can help prevent dryness, flaking, and premature skin ageing.
Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is critical to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Sunscreen protects against sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin ageing caused by UV rays. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply liberally to all exposed skin areas, including your face, neck, arms, and hands. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or play in the water. Regardless of the weather or season, it is important to incorporate sunscreen into your daily skin care routine.
Lip balm
Don’t forget the importance of lip care in your skin care routine, especially in Nigeria’s dry and dusty climate. Lip Balms prevent dry and chapped lips by locking in moisture and protecting against environmental damage. Look for lip balms with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E to moisturise and soften your lips. Apply lip balm throughout the day, especially before bed or before exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Oral care
Toothpaste
Choosing the right toothpaste is important to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities, so look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride that is recommended by dental associations. Depending on your specific dental needs, choose a toothpaste with additional benefits such as whitening, tartar control, and sensitivity reduction. Brush your teeth twice a day, preferably after meals, using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
Toothbrushes
Investing in a high-quality toothbrush and using proper brushing techniques are critical to optimising your oral health. Choose a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles that won’t damage your gums or tooth enamel. Electric toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque and reducing gum inflammation, but manual toothbrushes can also provide excellent results if used correctly. Gently brush your teeth in small circular motions, moving the bristles toward the gum line to remove plaque and debris. Replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Mouthwash
Incorporating mouthwash into your oral care routine provides added benefits for maintaining fresh breath and fighting bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash with antibacterial ingredients such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride to kill bacteria without causing dryness or irritation. After brushing your teeth, use mouthwash to rinse for 30 seconds, even in areas of your mouth that are difficult to brush with a toothbrush. To maintain optimal oral hygiene and a clean, healthy mouth, use mouthwash as directed, usually once or twice a day.
Dental floss
Dental floss is an essential part of oral care and helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth and along the gum line where toothbrushes can’t reach. Choose the dental floss that suits your preferences: waxed, unwaxed, flavored, or suitable for sensitive gums. Hold the floss firmly between your fingers and move it slowly back and forth between your teeth to remove debris and plaque. Be sure to floss both sides of each tooth and wrap the floss around the base of each tooth to clean below the gum line. Flossing once a day, preferably before bed, prevents tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Scent
Cologne/perfume
Choosing the perfect scent is a personal and effective care decision that can leave a lasting impression. When choosing a cologne or perfume, consider your personal taste, personality, and occasion for wearing it. Explore different scent families including citrus, wood, floral, and oriental to find the scent that’s right for you. Test different scents on your skin to see how scents interact with your body’s chemistry and change over time. Once you’ve found your signature scent, apply it sparingly to pulse points such as your wrists, neck, and chest to maximise its longevity and effectiveness. When it comes to scents, remember that less is often more when it comes to scents, as strong scents can be unpleasant. Invest in a high-quality cologne or perfume that matches your style and enhance your overall skincare routine.
