Keys Products For Men’s Grooming

Last week was a really busy week in the Nashville Country Music scene. Not only was it the CMT Awards, but it was also CMA Fest which is full of performances, meet and greets, shoots and all of the things that encompass country music. From my standpoint as a men’s groomer and stylist, the week was incredibly full. I feel so blessed to get to work with the amazing, kind and cool men that I do and also to get to share some of that with you guys. Whether you are a hair and makeup artist who focuses on men’s grooming or wants to learn or just a regular dude who wants some product tips, here are my fave products for men’s grooming when it comes to hot temps, long nights and still looking good.

Summer Grooming Necessities:

A good dry shampoo:
One thing I’ve learned about men, especially musicians, is that they like a little grit in their hair and do not necessarily shampoo every day. I always make sure to have a good dry shampoo in my kit just in case it’s been a minute since they washed. I like this one by Khlorane because it is completely plant based and doesn’t leave a heavy residue feeling in hair, while still cutting down oil.

Fast working eye cream:
This eye cream cuts bags within 20 min. Just enough time for getting ready.

Styling paste or cream:
Depending on the type of hair your client (or you) have, these pastes and creams cover pretty much all of your needs. I keep my kit stocked with these three and they travel with me to most sets.

Brandon from LANCO for CMT Crossroads

Mineral Powder:
I don’t like tons of makeup on guys. I usually cover under eye circles and problem areas with a light concealer and maybe use a CC Cream if they have skin discoloration. I follow that with a light powder to cut shine. I like this Mineralize Skin Finish by MAC for men because the finish just looks like really good skin vrs. the cakey powdery finish other powders can leave.

Hair Powder:

To me, guys hair looks best with a good cut and minimal amounts of products. However, you still need to use something that will hold hair in place or give it some grit. I love using this hair powder on short hair when I want a little more volume. Sprinkle in the root and use fingers to set.

Bobby Bones for CMA Fest- photo Zack Massey

Grey Coverage:
If your clients (or you) are getting some greys, this product makes it easy to cover without having to color your hair. I usually notice greys in men’s beards first. I personally like a little salt and pepper, but sometimes it can also look weird or spotty on camera. I spray this Retouch Me in a matching color to hair onto an eyebrow brush and brush it into beard for coverage.

Thinning Hair:
Another thing with men is fine or thinning hair. This product is a game changer and adds an immediate thickness to hair.

Finishing Face Spray:

Bobby Bones for CMA Fest – photo Zack Massey

I use this most every time I do someone’s makeup, but especially in summer heat. It helps makeup to last all day and I am convinced cuts down on sweat.

Eyebrow and Nose Trimmer:
No man is going to let you pluck away at his eyebrows for hours. This tool makes removing unwanted hairs easy and also has different heads for getting those tricky nose hairs too.