Grooming 101 Tips for Guys Everywhere

The political season is upon us and good-natured (for now) ribbing is the order of the day when the office staff discusses the viability of candidates for president of the United States.

“Amy Klobuchar? How can you support someone who eats salad with a comb?” asked one colleague.

My response, “You’d be appalled at what I’ve eaten and with what I’ve eaten it with over the years.”

Same goes for grooming habits. Before Rodman Media sprang for individual rooms on business trips, I’ve shared many a living space with guys whose ideas of a grooming routine is a 15 second tooth brushing and, maybe, a splash of water on their faces before hitting the sack. Us media types aren’t alone. According to results of an AcuPoll survey, 33% of guys don’t wash their face on a daily basis. I’d like to think they’re just protecting their microbiome, but the truth is, guys are pigs. That’s the bad news; the good news is, think of the surge in personal cleanser sales when men finally decide to do some personal cleansing!

At a time when coronavirus (covid-19) has health officials scrambling to develop a vaccine. A little more personal hygiene can go a long way in keeping men (and women and children) healthier.

Here’s some more good news; despite consumer confusion surrounding UV protection, sales of sun care products rose more than 3% last year. What’s more, the category is a breeding ground for entrepreneurs with new ideas on sun protection.

Also, this month, we report on the struggling color cosmetics sector, where sales fell in mass and prestige channels. Results may not make formulators and suppliers happy, but it does bode well for the US economy—if Leonard Lauder’s right about that Lipstick Index. Finally, our annual look at the OTC category finds most consumers have a DIY attitude when it comes to minor personal care issues.

And don’t you know, with business travel in full swing, I am forever grateful that Rodman Media changed its business travel policy years ago! If coronavirus doesn't halt my travel plans, I'll see you at In-Cosmetics Global, Barcelona; HCPA Midyear Meeting, Washington DC; and NYSCC Suppliers’ Day, New York, NY to name just a few!

Tom Branna
Editorial Director
tbranna@rodmanmedia.com