7 Men’s Grooming Tips for Better Hair, Scalp Care, and Shaving

If your idea of a grooming routine is Patrick Bateman’s meticulous layered ritual in American Psycho, then it’s time to retire that idea. Because although the ice pack goggles and sheet mask make for memorable cinematic moments, a good everyday routine doesn’t have to be nearly as excessive.

Sometimes, the biggest changes can come from simple upgrades. From how you shave and maintain your scalp, making these adjustments to your everyday habits can help you look sharper and more polished without adding unnecessary steps or spending to your routine.

To find out practical tips to elevate your grooming routine, Allure Philippines spoke with physician Rika Javier, PTRP, MD, and barber Jaime Chavez of Tasa Barbershop in White Plains, Quezon City during the Clear Dermatologists x Barber Takeover: Clear Scalp-To-Style Experience event.

Pick a haircut that suits your face and head shape

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They say a haircut is the equivalent of men’s makeup because of how much it can change a guy’s appearance. But before you show up to your haircut appointment with a peg you saw online, Chavez, who has been a barber for over 26 years, explains that some hairstyles suit specific face shapes. 

“I analyze it first. I look at the shape of the hair. Then I look at the shape of the face,” he shares of his process as a barber.  He considers this because a reference photo might not exactly look the same way on you.

His quick advice? If you have a round face, think of shorter sides for your next haircut. Meanwhile, if you have a square face or a stronger jaw, low fade haircuts and side parts are great options. Yes, you can still show reference photos, but don’t be shy to ask your barber how the style can be best adapted to you.

Choose hair styling products based on your hair texture

With the dizzying hairstyling options available, from gels and pomades to hairsprays, Chavez recommends checking what the product does and what your natural hair texture is. For example, “If your hair is naturally voluminous, you don’t need a volumizing product,” he says. 

Be mindful of how much you apply your styling products, too. Chavez advises that a little goes a long way for your wax and pomades. “You don’t need a lot,” he emphasizes. His tip is to scoop only half a thumb of wax, then work it through your hair before adding more for additional hold or definition.

Use the right comb or hairbrush to style your hair

The right comb or brush can help you better achieve your preferred hairstyle. For example, a roller brush can work best if you have a pompadour. “So you can give volume to the pompadour,” Chavez says. 

On one hand, if you want to tame fine hair, he recommends a fine-tooth comb as an option. If you have curly hair and prefer to detangle stubborn knots, he recommends using a paddle brush. “If your hair is curled and it’s a bit messy, use [a paddle brush].” He also shares how a paddle brush comes in handy for mature clients who want a sleek, polished hairstyle.

You don’t have to buy every grooming tool available. Choose only those that can help you achieve the hairstyle you regularly wear.

Wash your hair after working out

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There’s much ado about how often you should wash your hair. But according to Dr. Javier, if you exercise regularly or sweat heavily, you need to wash your hair and scalp immediately. “After you work out, after a long day, you can actually wash your hair,” she says. You don’t have to wait for a designated wash dayWash DayA dedicated routine of cleansing, conditioning, and treating the hair, especially common among those with curly, coily, or textured hair. Setting aside time for detangling, deep conditioning, and gentle dryingGo to Wash Day Glossary to shampoo your hair. 

Dr. Javier notes how grooming advice popular in Western countries may not always apply to Filipinos because of differences in climate and hair needs. “It’s very, very different here, especially because our weather is super humid and dry at the same time,” she says. Adjust your washing frequency according to your scalp’s needs, how much you sweat, and the products you use.

Remove hairstyling products after the day

Wax, pomades, or gel can help you achieve your preferred hairstyle, but remember to remove them at the end of the day. “Anything that’s really thick, and you don’t wash it—well, over time, it can attract bacteria. And of course, fungal infection,” Dr. Javier explains. “[Product buildup] causes an imbalance in the normal microbiome of your hair.”

If you’re wondering how to remove wax from your hair. Chavez shares, “Don’t rinse it with water. Get a shampoo. Massage your hair with the shampoo [directly].” He also advises that you can lessen product buildup by not waxing your hair every single day. “Let [the hair] rest,” he advises.

Put shaving oil or balm before using a razor

A comfortable shave starts with preparing your facial hair and skin. Chavez recommends applying shaving oil or balm and massaging it into the area before shaving, explaining that “you massage the shaving oil first so that the hair softens,” he says. For a more gentle shaving routine, he advises to “follow the [direction of growth] of the hair.” Avoid dry shaving, take your time, and use gentle strokes, especially around areas with uneven contours.

Apply aftercare after shaving

Your shaving routine should not end when you put the razor down. Dr. Javier advises considering the integrity of the skin, explaining, “When you shave, there’s always a layer of the skin [being removed.] So, you have to put an aftercare solution or serumSerumA lightweight, concentrated treatment applied after cleansing and before moisturizer to target specific concerns, such as dark spots, dehydration, or fine lines. Because serums are potent, introducing one at aGo to Serum Glossary on the areas where you shave.” This helps replenish moisture and support the skin after shaving, when the skin may be more vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and razor burns.