Easy Grooming Tips To Make You Look Like An Instant Right Swipe

By Khanak Mehta 

It’s the season of love! Whether you’ve already got your Valentine’s Day plans sorted or are looking to potentially meet the one soon (no pressure!), you need to look your best. And yes, we’re already saying it – this needs to go beyond your outfit, too.

According to celebrity hairstylist and educator Franco Vallelonga, what you wear is just as important as how you groom yourself—and it has to be a little more than just slicking your hair back with water. Don’t try to deny it, we know you’re guilty of it!

“Putting time into your grooming routine makes you look polished and stylish. It also makes you feel good, which improves a person's self-esteem and confidence—essential for social events,” he says. We’d say going on a date is a pretty important one.

However, just know that this doesn’t have to translate into a day-long grooming session at the barber’s before the big night. Here are some simple yet impactful steps you can add to your routine to look like a total right swipe. 

Your mane act 

Date or no date, Vallelonga suggests getting regular haircuts to keep your hair in a healthy and good condition. A day before your date is the best time to pay your hairstylist a visit; and while you’re there, ask for a blow dry. “Blow drying cuts down on styling time, and adds volume to the hair as well. Your hair will be soft, smooth, and shiny,” he adds.

A close shave 

You can never go wrong with a classic, clean-shaven look for a date – especially if you’re meeting someone new. “It’s best to trim your facial hair and exfoliate your skin a few days before the big date. Shave the evening before, and then again the next morning,” recommends Vallelonga. “Moisturise with a soothing facial oil to prep your skin before a shave,” he adds.

Don’t sweat it 

Between impressing your date with some standout moves on the dance floor and posing for endless selfies, things can get pretty sweaty. Opt for an anti-perspirant instead of a deodorant and invest in a travel-sized bottle for easy reapplication. Oh, and if you deal with oily skin, your face is bound to get shiny – so carry a small pack of blotting paper for a quick mid-evening refresh.