Grooming Lounge Blog

While we’re not concise enough to concisely outline the entirely awesome “Movember” movement, here’s what we do know:

- During November (Movember) each year, thousands of men around the word sprout mustaches (Mo’s) to raise awareness and funding for men’s health issues, most notably prostate and testicular cancer initiatives.

- Funds raised by the Movember Foundation (and they raise a lot) go toward supporting world-class programs in the areas of education, survivorship and research.

- Once registered at www.movember.com, men start Movember 1st clean shaven. For the rest of the month, these selfless and generous men, known as Mo Bros, groom, trim and wax their way into the annals of fine moustachery.

Anyway, Grooming Lounge wants to help too.  So, in addition to a bunch of us gents here growing Mo’s (that means you Levy and Sallack) — throughout Movember –  we’ll also be donating $1 for every Grooming Lounge Shave Solution purchased to the Movember Foundation. This $1 per GL-crested Shave Product goes for online sales as well as sales through our two Grooming Lounge Barber & Spa locations.

So, please visit Movember stat, sign up and if you need some stuff to shave around that Mo, make it Grooming Lounge and we’ll give some back to the cause.

THE SCOOP ON USING MEN’S FACIAL MASKS

Of course you don’t use a facial mask. Those masks are for that “friend” or that “guy at work.” You know, those gents with the major self confidence and the young-looking, non-oily and energized dermis. Who needs that craziness? Not you. But if you happen to see one of those guys, maybe pass along this article reinforcing what they already know about the major benefits and simplicity of incorporating a mask into a regular skincare regimen.

WHAT DO MASKS DO?

Masks do all the things that cleansers, moisturizers, scrubs and toners often need a little help with, such as…

Getting rid of bad stuff
- Taming oiliness, especially in the “T-Zone” (nose to lower forehead) area by absorbing excess oils
- Tightening up pores that get clogged with dirt and grime, often leading to breakouts and unsightly dermis

Giving Good Stuff
- Infusing moisture and oxygen to promote skin renewal
- Improving blood circulation en route to a healthier-feeling and looking hide

TYPES OF MASKS
There are two “main” types of masks available today:

- Those created to battle oily or acne-prone skin.

- Those targeted toward men with dry, dull dermis.

While oily-type masks are a bit more common, hydrating masks are now uber-popular due to their variety of health benefits. In addition to rejuvenating and refreshing dry skin, these hydrating masks provide mucho anti-aging benefits.

Less we forget about new-fangled dual-masks, those with both hydrating and drying properties that are perfect for guys who want to address both oiliness in the T-zone area and dryness in other regions.

MASK TIPS & MYTHS

Masks can be pretty powerful, so it’s important to follow provided directions (usually right there on the tube, tub or other). Whatever the mask type, starting with a clean face is usually recommended. From there, following are a few more tricks and tips of the masking trade.

Don’t Overdo It: Masks should be part of a solid grooming routine, but not a daily routine. Once to twice a week will do the trick, with oily gents leaning more toward a “double shot.”

Moisturize: Oil-fighting masks can dry out the skin, so it’s critical to moisturize post-making to restore PH balance and keep dermis healthy, vibrant and hydrated.

Be Patient: Most masks require 10-15 minutes of face time to stay on the mug and harden. The skin will and should feel tight as the mask absorbs the excess oil. Don’t rush the treatment, it’s not like a cleanser that you wash on/wash off. So clear your schedule for a bit to make sure you’re not prematurely unmasking.

Get A Facial: If you’ve never had a professional skincare facial, it’s highly recommended. Besides being super-relaxing, professional skincare treatments are fantastic for the mug’s health and feel.

Step 1: Repeat after us: Less is More. Less is More. The idea is for people to appreciate the scent, not be overwhelmed by it. Don’t get fooled into thinking additional volume will make it last longer. That’s nonsense.

Step 2: Fragrances should be put on from bottom to top, with application concentrating on pulse points. The most frequent pulse points for men are behind the ears, neck, armpits and wrists. Hitting all these pulse points is certainly overkill, so pick and choose what’s appropriate.

Step 3: Don’t get overanxious with spraying or such, as a scent needs time to sink in. By applying on pulse points, the fragrance will distribute evenly around the body. Let us repeat… less is more.

Kudos to the marketing oddballs here at Grooming Lounge who created this important and 100% copyright-infringing chart on how fictional characters can up their handsomeness quotient.