Male grooming is a growing market. Brands and businesses alike have been embracing this change in the beauty industry for over a decade. The beauty industry has evolved and is no longer a market solely for women. The market is being overcome by men’s burning desire to stay young.
For generations men were not supposed to be interested in skin care, fragrances, plastic surgery, and of most recently Botox. Shaving and a basic haircut or trim was all men were concerned about. Times have changed. Men, especially gay men, are huge consumers of products like age-defying facials, high-end shaving products, and luxury fragrances. These have become rituals in the lives of the modern male of today.
Once a trend, male grooming is now a profitable market and will continue to grow. Whether you admit it or not, gay men grossly invest in products because they are obsessed with looking good. Male grooming is a daily practice within the gay community and a characteristic carried over into the heterosexual world; just think of the term metrosexual.
As gay men, we’ve mastered male grooming from shaving with the best products to smelling manly with the most luxurious scents, but often I wonder if we’re as knowledgeable with the length of time we should keep certain grooming products.
In my lifetime, I’ve come across a handful of men who from the outside appear to have it all together but behind closed doors lack in the area of proper grooming practices. Whether you have deep pockets or are pitching pennies, it’s important to remember your products have a shelf-life; a shelf life and expiration date that applies even when you’re at home.
When it comes to grooming and good hygiene here are a few items to remember to replace or throw away:
Toothbrush: It’s good practice to replace your toothbrush every 3 months to help prevent against harmful bacteria that can lead to gingivitis and tooth decay.
Bath Towels: If you use your bath towel every day it’s recommended to wash it every week. You can extend the wash time by alternating between two towels. Then be sure to wash them both after 10 days. Replace your bath towels every 2 years.
Bath Sponge: It’s suggested that bath sponges should be trashed and replaced with a new one every 6 weeks. In my research I learned that the sponge is great to use. The sponge traps the bacteria and holds it but obviously after 6 weeks, the sponge weakens releasing the trapped bacteria.
Washcloths: Bathing or showering with a washcloth is essential but it’s also important not to use the same wash cloth that you use for your body on your face. It’s also recommended to switch out your wash cloth after 7 to 10 days. If you wash more than once per day, you should change your washcloth sooner.
Disposable Razors: Surprisingly there is no set time frame for replacing your disposable razor, however, I believe after 10 to 20 shaves it’s time for a new one. Although, if you’re someone like me who shaves every other day, you may stretch the life of the razor. However, don’t push it; whenever in doubt change it.
“You are your greatest asset. Put your time, effort and money into training, grooming, and encouraging your greatest asset.” – Unknown
