Not for women only: a grooming guide for Black men

IN this era when it's not uncommon to see Black men purchasing moisturizers, skin creams, shower gels and other personal grooming products, it's clear that more men are taking steps to look and feel their best so that they can be their best.

For years, the spotlight has been on the grooming habits of women, but with the stigma associated with men and grooming rapidly disappearing, more men are taking a big grooming step--to the point of visiting nail salons and, if necessary, getting their eyebrows plucked.

Now that we're in the midst of skin-revealing summer days, this is a great time for men to adhere to some effective grooming tips that can lead to maximum appeal.

For many Black men, the primary focus is on skin and hair care. For nearly 11 million African-American men, pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps) is an unwanted byproduct of shaving. The problem results when hair from a growing beard curls over and grows back into the skin, causing inflammation and, in some cases, keloidal scarring.

The best way to deal with razor bumps and ingrown hairs is to develop a before-and-after shaving system. Many new gels and moisturizers soften the hair follicles before shaving while new technologically improved razors and blades produce smoother and less-irritating shaves.

Chicago dermatologist Rene Martin Earles, M.D., who has treated many African-American patients with mild to severe razor bumps, ache and other skin problems, recommends a combination of topical antibiotics and shaving procedures that make inflamed and unsightly bumps less of a problem. Depilatories, which are creams or powders mixed with water to remove facial hair, may also be a solution.

Looking your best also implies treating the rest of your skin properly. Identify your skin type--oily, dry, combination or normal--and adopt a basic skin-care regimen that is right for you. Begin by cleansing with soaps that won't dry the skin, then exfoliate your entire body with scrubs to remove dead skin cells and prevent blocked pores that can cause blemishes.

If your skin is dry, dermatologists recommend vitamin-enriched moisturizing creams and lotions, which make skin supple and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. And if you're going to be in the sun, don't forget the sunscreen. Contrary to popular belief, Black skin is susceptible to sun damage that can lead to premature aging, wrinkling, skin cancer and uneven skin tone.

Additionally, the well-groomed man doesn't forget his nails. Keep them clean and even. Purchase a manicure kit and use it! Take the time to scrub underneath nails, trim cuticles, file and shape nails. Be sure to buff all 10 nail beds for a natural finish. And what was an uncommon sight a few years ago, more men now are pampering themselves with professional pedicures to slough off calluses and to soften rough feet.

There are many elements to good grooming, and a well-groomed man is never too busy to get a regular haircut and get rid of protruding hair from his ears and nose. Another good hygiene tip is to freshen breath and brush teeth at least twice daily. Keep breath mints in your pocket and travel-size bottles of mouthwash, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and a wash cloth packed away at your desk or in the car's glove compartment, just in case.

Flawless grooming and hygiene are always attractive. A little attention to your body goes a long way toward heightening a man's appeal.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning