Decades ago, physical self-improvement among men was not given any importance. At all. For society, clothes, hair, and beauty regimen are realms reserved for women and girls. In fact, it is all too common to poke fun at men who fuse over skincare and fashion.
The global men’s personal care market was even valued at $47.5 billion in 2019, said Grand View Research report. It is estimated that the market will increase at a 6 percent annual growth rate from 2020 to 2027.
Thanks to social media influences, men these days no longer shy away from improving their body image, hygiene, and overall physical appearance.
Why Your Appearance Matters a Lot
It is deeply ingrained in us humans to be concerned about our physical appearance. Countless research has even backed up this truth. When searching for a potential mate, attractiveness is one of the top traits we look at.
Studies have also shown that physically attractive individuals tend to enjoy more perks than others. They tend to get what they want easily and get themselves out easily in any compromising situation.
In psychology, it is termed the “halo effect.”
This psychological concept explains the tendency of humans to equate beauty with highly positive traits. Examples of these highly positive traits are altruism, stability, and intelligence.
In the work setting, physically attractive people tend to get employed much easier, get paid higher, and get better loan terms. Criminals who are attractive even get lighter sentences than those who are not so physically well-endowed.
It all sounds superficial, but it is the truth. There is plenty of science to back up the fact that we humans place attractiveness on top of our priorities.
Considering these facts, it is only reasonable why one should strive to work on one’s appearance. Nonetheless, improving one’s looks does not have to be expensive. Perhaps all you need is the right haircut, a few skincare routines, nice clothes, and you are all set.
1. Choose an Appropriate Hairstyle
It is often said that your hair is your crowning glory. How you wear your hair can totally make or break your appearance. The same thing applies to your facial hair. Some men look good in beards and goatees, while others look creepy enough.
Though it can be a little disconcerting to try out a new hairstyle while you are at ease with your usual one, give it a try and discover a whole new you. So the next time you go down to your local barbershop, ask your regular barber to try out a haircut he thinks would suit your face better.
2. Stick to a Skin Care Regimen
For most men, a standard bar of soap and water already constitutes a skincare routine. We all know that indiscriminately using any soap on your face (and body) could lead to long-term skin damage.
A regular soap bar could strip off all the skin’s natural moisture and usually could not remove all the dirt and dead skin cells in your face and body.
Show some love to your skin by giving it a bit of pampering and care.
First, figure out what type of skin you have. It could be anything from oily, normal, sensitive, or a combination of any. Second, once you know your skin type, use products that are well-suited for your skin. Third and lastly, learn to establish a routine around using these products.
Admittedly, it can be tedious. But it is all worth it in the end.
3. Practice Good Hygiene
Good hygiene is essential. No matter how naturally good-looking you are, if you smell bad and look unkempt, people will still see you as unattractive.
If you want to improve your physical appearance, re-examine your hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, trim and clean your nails, pluck out unwanted hair, and shower daily.
Ladies are quite particular when it comes to nails. It is like the “shoe test.” So guys, it is worth it to visit a nail salon once in a while.
4. Workout & Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle
Regular physical exercise has always been a cornerstone of physical attractiveness. Lose that extra flab, tone your muscles, and increase your strength and endurance.
You do not necessarily need to have a body like that of a seasoned bodybuilder, but looking lean and healthy will surely turn some heads in your direction.
Apart from that, try to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Do away with smoking, regulate your alcohol intake, and eat a well-balanced diet.
Looking your best physically is only a key part of transforming into an attractive you. Learn new things, educate yourself, and explore the world. Practice kindness along the way. All these add up in making you a more interesting and sophisticated gentleman.
