How men are maintaining their grooming routines in lockdown

What are men really doing with their hair and skin during lockdown? While the temptation to revert to woolly wilderness has been strong, the team at Irish online male grooming company 4men.ie have seen some surprising changes among Irish men

We have been looking through the trends over the last year with a fine-tooth comb.

Comfort in clothing has always been a given, but what about men’s grooming? Despite what you might think, ‘manly’ bars of soaps and combs have been some of the bestselling items in lockdown.

It’s no surprise that beard products are on the up again. Beards and moustaches have been the biggest trends for men so far this century. However, very large beards and fantastic moustaches are fast becoming a thing of the past. We are certainly seeing more sculpted and subtle facial hair now, which have their own care needs. Beard balms are number one best-sellers, followed by beard oils. These are essential for a healthy beard, keeping it nourished and vibrant. This allows facial hair to sit far more neatly on the face, while giving it manly fragrance. The free time during lockdown has obviously given many men an appreciation for their own style.

One effect of lockdown is that men are not shaving as much. However, when they are, they have taken to using more sustainable old-fashioned safety razors, just like the ones grandpa used.

Why the increase in popularity for these old razors? There are many reasons to choose the safety razor. Firstly, they are far more eco-friendly. The only part to be recycled regularly is a small strip of metal, after all. The razors are also all metal and can last a lifetime if looked after.

Secondly, it is very cost-effective. Once the razor is bought, the blades can cost as little as €10 a year.

Thirdly, with that little bit more time on their hands right now, men can take the time to learn the true art of shaving: something that you cannot rush. It takes practice, but once mastered, will make you look and feel great.

It’s no surprise that beard products are on the up again. Beards and moustaches have been the biggest trends for men so far this century

Finally, safety razors just give a fantastic close shave.

If you are new to safety razors, a starter pack is a good place to begin; giving both the beginner and the master all the essentials for their shaving needs. Starter kits have allowed men to learn the best way of taking care of their beards. Sales of shaving foams have gone down during lockdown, replaced in part by more sustainable solid shaving soap and brush. These products feel far better and are more effective than any shaving foam, giving the best shave possible.

For many men, especially when done every day, shaving causes skin irritation. This is a combination of the physical scraping of regular close shaving and the dehydrating effect of the detergents used. No surprise then that products to help with shaving irritation are popular with both men and women. Tendskin and alum blocks are fantastic products that greatly calm razor burn and leave your skin feeling fresh. They are hypoallergenic and skin-friendly, guaranteeing a smooth feel for any shave.

One thing that lockdown hasn’t changed is men’s skincare routines, with many continuing to spend a little more to ensure that they have smooth and clean skin.

Remote working aside, there is still plenty of interest in hair products. The big new sellers are boost powders and the sea salt sprays that give hair lift, thickness and a matte finish. These provide a natural look and help tame any head’s wildness. Along with the everessential comb’s help, these products are the secret to giving any man’s head a sophisticated style.

The downtime lockdown forces on men allows them to appreciate themselves and can boost their confidence at a time when so many people are taking a hit to their self-esteem.

That has been one of the few silver linings of lockdown – an opportunity to work on discovering the best versions of ourselves and learning the methods to let style and looks shine through. 4men.ie