Many men are attracted to trim, muscular physiques. However, others prefer skinny or burly bodies. Don’t feel pressured to conform to a certain standard of beauty.
Fatigue directly impacts your looks by showing in your face as signs like dark circles under your eyes. Chronic sleeplessness can also make weight easier to gain and harder to lose over time. [7] X Research source
Men ages 18 through 49 should have a preventive health visit every 2 years. [8] X Research source Men who are 50 years or older should have a physical exam annually. [9] X Research source
Wear deodorant. Some men are lucky enough to have fewer sweat glands and may not need to use deodorant on a daily basis. However, most do. Reapply deodorant as needed, especially in warm weather or after exercise. Shower at least once a day. Use soap and water to rinse away dirt, dead skin, and bacterial buildup. Some people with fine or oily hair may need to shampoo daily, but most only need to wash their hair a few times a week or even less. Just don’t go more than 14 days without a shampoo. [10] X Research source Keep your nails clean and free from dirt. Your nails can be any length, shape, or color you prefer. If your nails are longer, buff out breaks with a nail file to keep them from snagging on hair and clothing.
Even if you sport a full beard, you will need to shape it to look sharp. Shave or pluck away stray hairs on your face or below your neckline. While stubble is currently popular, avoid growing it out too far to avoid looking unkempt.
Moisturize after you shower. Hydrated skin reduces the appearance of wrinkles. [11] X Research source Protect your skin from the sun. Sun damage can cause premature aging in your skin. Wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or above. [12] X Research source
For more formal occasions like a job interview or wedding, stick to a dark matching suit. Your dress shirt and tie can be colorful as long as they don’t clash or look tacky. Business casual is a happy medium for when you want to look sharp without overdoing it. Wear a collared shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. Pair with a blazer for a smarter look or a sweater. Ties are optional. This is a good look for networking events, evening parties, and first dates. [14] X Research source Casual wear covers just about everything else, such as the classic T-shirt and jeans look. This can be your day-to-day style. Cities with warmer climates may be more lax with dress codes. Nobody wants to wear a dark suit and jacket in extreme weather. If you aren’t sure what to wear to an event, ask other men who will be there what they plan on wearing. If you’re going to a restaurant or venue, try figuring out what’s expected by looking up photos of the establishment online.
Learn how to sew to be able to make minor repairs on the fly. If you really can’t stitch, have someone who can mend minor damage before it becomes major. Iron your dress shirts. Wrinkles make you look sloppy. Find a good local cleaner. Some types of clothing you shouldn’t do yourself. A professional will know how to remove tough stains and get your clothes looking great again. [15] X Research source Avoid wearing clothes with stains and holes in them.
Good posture conveys poise and confidence. Even when you don’t feel confident, projecting confidence to the world makes you more attractive. Some studies show that good posture can act as a positive feedback loop when it comes to confidence. Maintaining good posture can actually boost your mood and build confidence on its own. [16] X Research source
When you’re speaking with someone one-on-one, make eye contact for 7-10 seconds before looking elsewhere. If you’re in a group, this should be 3-5 seconds. [17] X Research source When breaking contact, look to the side or up slightly to appear confident and self-assured. Looking down at your shoes makes you seem anxious or submissive. [18] X Research source Don’t make eye contact for too long. When you “stare,” you can come off as intimidating or creepy. [19] X Research source
Exercise mindfulness and positive self-talk. This can be as simple as telling yourself a few affirmations every morning in the mirror. Avoid admonishing yourself when you make a mistake and instead simply resolve to do better next time. [20] X Research source Write down a list of things you like about yourself. Read it every time you need to cheer up. Set realistic goals. Pick things that you know you can do with some effort. (For example, “learn how to mountain climb” rather than “climb Mount Everest. “) Celebrate each step on your way to fulfill that goal.
