Key Takeaways: Men’s grooming routines are an underrated aspect of men’s health. Establishing a routine that cares for your unique skin, hair, facial hair, lifestyle, and more can help your clients look, feel, and be better.
While some men may have a “rub some dirt on it” attitude when it comes to their skincare, the truth is that men can benefit from a thoughtful, intentional grooming routine. Their skin, hair, facial hair, and overall appearance and well-being can all improve with the right grooming guidance.
From need-to-know basics to summer trends, adopting a men’s grooming routine this year can help your clients feel (and look) more confident. So, whether it's a routine that needs to be refreshed or you’re starting from scratch, you’ll want to check out the guide below.
Barber's Guide to Men’s Grooming Routines
It All Starts with Your Skin
Skin is the foundation of any grooming routine. Healthy skin promotes healthy hair, boosts confidence, reduces signs of aging, and otherwise helps set the tone for your appearance and well-rounded approach to grooming.
With that in mind, it is important to emphasize skincare in any men’s grooming routine.
Focus on Areas of Concern
Men’s skin is unique because it is thicker and more rugged than most women’s skin. It’s the reason why some men can wash their faces with dish soap and seem perfectly fine. But is their skin actually fine?
However, men are also more prone to showing signs of aging in areas of expression. Furrowed brows and smile lines around their eyes are great examples of this.
Your grooming routine should account for these areas of concern by addressing them directly. Barbers: you should be able to guide your clients through the best routine for their needs, as well as recommend the right products or techniques to keep those untimely wrinkles from developing.
"Men's skin is unique because it's thicker and more rugged than most women's skin – that's why some men can wash their face with dish soap and seem perfectly fine. But is their skin actually fine?"
Stay Clean and Exfoliate
Removing dirt and grime with a gentle cleanser helps keep the face clean and prepares it for the rest of your men's skincare routine. Even if your client is someone who has historically used a generic, off-the-shelf facewash or body wash, they could still benefit from investing in cleansing products that address the exact needs of their unique skin.
For example, men with dry skin would benefit from a gentle cleanser that also promotes hydration. While the main goal is to get clean and prep skin for the rest of the routine, choosing a cleanser that helps skin thrive rather than simply stripping it of dirt is the best path forward.
Following the cleansing phase, it is important to use a gentle exfoliant that removes dead skin cells and helps thoroughly clean the skin on a deeper level.
Moisturize
Hydrated skin is happy skin, so this step in a man’s grooming routine is among the most vital. Not only does moisturizing improve the appearance of skin (helping it look younger and more supple), but it also boosts skin health.
Opt for a moisturizer that isn’t overly heavy and absorbs quickly. Recommend that your clients apply it twice a day–once before beginning the day, and again before going to bed. Just like cleanser, finding a moisturizer that suits their individual skin is essential.
If your clients have facial hair, a quality beard oil can also be used. This is used to moisturize the skin beneath the beard, helping to avoid dryness and itchiness while nourishing the hair follicles and encouraging healthy growth.
Protect
Sunscreen is a must to keep skin healthy after you’ve put in the work to get it that way in the first place. SPF 30 or higher is recommended, and it should be uses every day–even when it’s overcast or the summer sunshine is long gone.
Protecting your skin from sun damage and premature aging can go a long way toward preserving a healthy, youthful appearance. Do your research (and ask an expert) to determine what type of sunscreen is right.
Men's Haircare (Even if You Have None)
Ditch Dandruff
We don’t want to gross you out, but dandruff is the result of more than just dry skin; it’s caused by a fungus that leads to symptoms we all know–itching, flaking, irritation, and more.
Regular washing with a gentle shampoo can help eliminate mild dandruff, though a specialized shampoo might be more effective, especially if your client's dandruff is significant. Staying consistent is key!
Opt-Out of Oil
The days of oily hair are over. The greasy look may have been popular in the past, but those times are gone. Now, it’s all about cleansing hair of oily build-up and avoiding hair products that could make it worse.
Consistently washing hair with an oil-clarifying shampoo is typically all that’s necessary to begin an oil-free hair journey. Just make sure it doesn’t have any harsh sulfates in it.
Balding Isn’t Bad
Many men experience balding and struggle with their self-confidence as a result. In truth, there’s nothing bad about balding. In fact, you can help your client's embrace their evolution and make the most of it.
The same principle applies to thinning hair. Opting for a shaved head can help them regain confidence, especially if their scalp is well cared for. Keep it clean, shaved, and moisturized, just like you would a full head of hair or a freshly shaved face.
Beard Care: Don't Just Grow it – Groom It
Beards are back in a big way (were they ever really gone?), but not all beards are created equal—and definitely not all are well groomed. A healthy, groomed beard can elevate a man’s look, while a dry, scraggly one can do the opposite. That’s why beard care deserves a solid spot in your grooming routine—or your clients’.
Here’s how to keep facial hair looking fresh, healthy, and intentional.
Cleanse Your Beard (Yes, It Gets Dirty)
Beards trap dirt, sweat, food, and oil like nobody’s business. A good beard wash –one that’s gentler than regular shampoo but still effective – is essential. It helps keep the skin underneath healthy while preventing breakouts, dryness, or that dreaded beard itch.
Condition & Soften
After cleansing, a beard conditioner or hydrating beard balm helps soften the hair and make it more manageable. This is especially important for longer or coarse beards, which can become wiry and unruly without the right moisture.
Oil Up for Skin & Shine
A lightweight beard oil is your go-to for taming frizz, adding shine, and—most importantly—moisturizing the skin beneath the beard. Many men skip this step, but it’s the secret to avoiding beard dandruff (aka “beardruff”) and that tight, itchy feeling.
Bonus: The right oil can also enhance natural growth and leave your beard smelling amazing.
Shape & Style with Intention
Regular trims are non-negotiable for a clean, well-defined look. Even if your client is growing their beard out, trimming flyaways and shaping the neckline keeps it looking purposeful–not patchy. You can help create a beard shape that flatters their face and gives a polished edge.
Don’t Forget the (Beard) Tools
A quality beard comb or brush can make a huge difference. Combing helps distribute oils, detangle hairs, and train growth in the right direction. It's also a great way to give a beard that quick refresh between washes.
Helping your clients establish a healthy men’s grooming routine can absolutely transform their appearance, confidence, and health. It’s a topic that many men are unfamiliar with, so offering some pointers and well-intentioned guidance can go a long way.
For more barbering tips, tricks, trends, and insights, be sure to subscribe to National Barbers Insurance and visit our blog!
