Recently, linguists have coined a new term to identify a well-groomed man: The Metrosexual.

Although historically many manly-men have shied away from good self-care practices out of fear of being viewed as “too pretty” or, let’s face it. from just plain laziness; it’s never been easier or more suitable to take care of yourself with good grooming. Take pride in your appearance, guys – you are worthwhile, too!

Men who look good have a tendency to feel better, have more self-confidence, and others respond more warmly to them. If you need a boost in making sales, getting dates, or just feeling better, consider stepping up your self-care routine. A good hair cut and a close shave goes a ways.

The occasional extras – like nose and ear hair trimming, eyebrow pruning, and skin moisturizing – are great additional steps that you can address on an as-needed basis. Though you will not have ever considered going into one of those “salons” with all the crazy chemicals and gorgeous girls, more and more men are getting their grooming needs taken care of (even manicures) at such establishments.

It’s not crazy to go into a salon, it’s crazy to let yourself go. Show the world you care what you look like.

For example, it can be unattractive to let long hairs grow on the back of your neck. Take care of these areas weekly with a simple neck trim.

If you like a close shave, you can never get closer than with a razor, but many men favor the comfort of a cordless electric shaver. This type of shaver is easy and convenient to use at work or in the vehicle and you do not want to use shaving cream to get the task finished. When you are done, you can just rinse the entire unit in the sink. It is a shaver shave, sure, but for many men the comfort and convenience compensate for the extra cost of purchasing the shaver and the time of taking care of it.

As far as eyebrow maintenance goes – did you know that girls sometimes TRIM their eyebrows with small scissors? You can do it, too! Although eyebrow shaping is best left to the professionals (you don’t want to mess up something that is boldly displayed in the middle of your face on your face), you can trim back the wild “crazy professor eyebrows” so they don’t look as if they need mustache wax to hold their shape.

You can also use tweezers to pluck undesired hairs – especially the hairs over the bridge of your nose that make a “unibrow” look. Your eyes may even water from the pain your first time out – but you will not cry because you’re a man! Just think – “If my better half can do this, so can I!” Your eyebrows are so close to your eyes that they are seen every day and are an important part of your facial expression, so take care they look good!

Finally – nose and ear hair. When you’re not sure, less is more… The hairs should stay INSIDE your nose and ears. If hair is growing out your nostrils, or down your earlobes, shed it. You can try a battery powered nose and ear hair trimmer that should do the job nicely.

Although it may not be something your father ever passed on to you, good grooming is a part of dressing for success. Just like a good shave, a pressed shirt, and polished shoes – looking after your skin, your hair, and your beard is all part of good grooming. Use these tips to freshen up your appearance and you’ll be able to spot the difference the following time you are head to head with someone important.