Photo by Michael Gilman Mike Gilman founded Grooming Lounge nearly 20 years ago and since then, has learned way too much about men's grooming thanks to Grooming Lounge's Expert Staff, testing every product ever sent to us and serving as a Guinea Pig for every service imaginable. Below, he answers some of the most-common grooming and business inquiries sent his way.
Q. Is there really a difference between the shaving products you sell on your site and those I can pick up at the grocery store?
I’m admittedly beyond biased in answering this question, but the truth is higher-end shaving products, when used properly, deliver better results. That’s not to say you can’t find some solid shaving products in a drug store, but anything and everything offered at Grooming Lounge is tested and approved by our Master Barbers and myself. The ingredients and efficacy of our products are top notch. Before starting Grooming Lounge, I suffered from severe razor rash and razor bumps -- and it wasn’t until I started using higher-quality products, the right way, that my shaves became enjoyable instead of a semi nightmare.
Q. My hair is a disaster – meaning I have a good amount up top – but it never looks good. What to do?
I’m just going to run down a quick list of suggestions – there’s more – but this is a good start. 1) Find the right barber/stylist to cut your hair regularly. Someone who cuts with your overall look and lifestyle in mind. 2) Use quality products. While you’ll pay a bit more, solid shampoos, and styling potions will achieve better looks every time. 3) Use a conditioner – don’t skip this. A solid conditioner will keep hair soft and manageable and make it easier to get the desired look. 4) Use your fingers as a comb when you can. Those digits are less stressful to the hair than a brush.
Q. I’m 35, but look like I’m 50. Wrinkles, eye bags and brown spots are getting the best of me. How can I can I slow down the aging process with my skin?
The first thing to do is to make sure you’re wearing a sunscreen every day. 90% of pre-mature skin aging is caused by excess sun exposure. From there, make sure to follow a regular and solid skincare routine. Cleansing, scrubbing and protecting on the regular should do the trick. And finally… eat better and avoid the Marlboro’s.
Q. Where the hell does a guy apply cologne without looking like a complete tool in the process? How should I do it?
We recommend the two spritz method – one on the neck and the other in the center of your shirt. These points are chosen on where a guy is most likely to perspire. And most importantly, remember that with fragrance application, less is always more.
Q. What’s the difference between a deodorant and anti-perspirant?
Put most simply, a deodorant blocks the stench that accumulates due to perspiration, while an anti-perspirant attempts to stop the sweating before it leads to stink. Some, but not all, prefer the deodorant route because some of the ingredients in anti-perspirants have been questions as to how healthy they are?
Q. As a business owner, who is your most important customer/audience?
This might ruffle some customer feathers, but stick with me. I’ve always operated on the theory that our internal team is Grooming Lounge’s most important audience. I know that if our team is treated right, offered kindness and empathy and provided with ongoing education – they’ll in turn treat our end consumer the same way. It’s a win-win.
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