Every guy wants to look his best, but sometimes it’s easy to miss the simple stuff. These quick tips from Men’s Health US executive fashion director Brian Boyé will take you less than four minutes total, but can make serious upgrades to your appearance
Four minutes to a better looking you? Who doesn’t have time for that?
1. Trim your sideburns: 1 minute
Your sideburns are the part of your haircut that grows out the fastest. When they start to look unruly, give them a quick trim for a clean-cut look without a trip to the barber, says Boyé. (This refresh only works once between haircuts.)
2. Blot your skin: 15 seconds
Men’s skin is naturally more oily than women’s, says Boyé. The upside is that it keeps you looking younger for longer. The downside? By the end of the day, you’re greased up like a piece of fried chicken.
Keep blotting papers in your desk drawer and give your nose and forehead a quick once-over before heading out for happy hour.
Of course, your gender doesn’t always determine your skin type. If you suffer from unusual dryness, the right moisturizer can help quickly revitalize your appearance, too.
3. Choose a bright shirt: 30 seconds
Your basic white button-up is a classic, but sticking solely to neutrals can make you look dull. For a fresher appearance, step out of your comfort zone and opt for more exciting hues. “A bright orange, red or pink shirt will light up your face and make you stand out in a crowd,” says Boyé. You can go solid or experiment with something patterned.
4. Exfoliate: 1 minute
Give your mug a little attention before you hit the sack tonight. Every day, thousands of tiny skin cells on your face die. Without a good scrub, they can accumulate and produce dry, white flakes around your nose and forehead, says Boyé.
Add face scrub to your nightly routine a few times a week to look smooth and fresh.
5. Polish your shoes: 1 minute
A recent Men’s Health survey found that the two things women are checking out the most are your shoes and your watch. “Scuffed shoes indicate a lack of attention to detail,” says Boyé. They also look crappy.
In a real pinch, try this DIY method: Swipe the inside of a banana peel across your shoe and gently wipe off any excess gunk with a paper towel. The banana has natural oils that will provide a quick shine to your kicks.
