Face it. Men are becoming more like women. Not only has menswear grown slimmer—thanks mostly to ‘Saint Laurent Paris’ designer Hedi Slimane’s campaign for the male skinny jean—but men have grown increasingly cognizant of the fact that impressions do indeed have an impact. Appearance affects the mark one leaves behind after that first hello and before that last good-bye. And that by enhancing one’s own natural beauty, one can directly affect their impression on another, in either a positive or negative manner; and therefore either benefit or harm their respective reputation. I like to call it cosmetic manipulation: an art form women have been keen to for centuries, while us men have, more often than not, laid dormant out of fear of compromising our loaded idea of masculinity.

In contemporary times, there is one type of man that does not fear the idea of taking care of himself: the metro-man (often termed metrosexual). The metro-man is a man, heterosexual or homosexual, who exceeds the confines dictating the normative definition of masculinity, and instead defines and expresses himself in a tailored, creative manner. Secure in his sexuality, intuition, and penchant for grooming, style, and fashion, the metrosexual is in essence the modern man. And, of course, the modern man needs grooming accessories in order to maintain such an image: so let’s now cue the cosmetic lights and lift the drapes of preconceived notions, for a short but essential lesson in men’s wellness…

Best Men's Beauty Product List

Youtheory Collagen

As terribly cliché as it may sound, I’ve always been a proponent of the idea that one’s beauty starts within—cosmetic or not. And, because I am firm in and faithful to my beliefs, I personally started taking this supplement a couple days ago after a recommendation from a friend and after reading glowing reviews online. Collagen is the main structural protein of human beings’ connective tissues, and is therefore essential for healthy hair, nails, and, of course, skin. Stay tuned for a personalized update. http://www.youtheory.com/collagen/

Lab Series: Max LS Daily Renewing Cleanser 

Backed by the pioneering Estée Lauder house, "Lab Series: Skincare for Men" is a brand known for its specialty in men’s care products; and, personally, happens to be a bit nostalgic. I’ll always remember the countless times I saw Lab Series products on my father’s marble, bathroom counter. He never went without his LS products. Whether it’s a desire to wash away the morning fog or daily build up, this "Lab Series: Max LS Daily Renewing Cleanser" is a great way to start and end each day.

Clinique for Men: Anti-Age Moisturizer

Another subsidiary backed by the distinguished Estée Lauder, Clinique is a multi-faceted brand specializing in men’s and women’s skincare, cosmetics, toiletries, and fragrances—all of which are normally sold in high-end department stores, such as Nordstrom. The preceding "Clinique for Men: Anti-Age Moisturizer" is in essence an all-day hydrator formulated to combat lines, wrinkles, and dullness for promoting a fresh, youthful-looking skin. Make sure to apply after using your cleanser.

American Crew: Pomade 

After completing one’s face regimen, hair care is the next step towards finalizing the Metro-Man look. American Crew is the quintessential American men’s hair grooming brand, tailored specifically for stylists to use in the exclusivity of their salon. Having personally used "American Crew: Pomade" for the past five years, I can attest to the product’s legitimacy: it’s light but potent; soft yet still holds. Perfect for daily-use. Essential for important affairs.

Aveda: Control Force Hair Spray 

Very often, after smoothing my hair over with "American Crew: Pomade," I find myself using hair spray to solidify the finishing touches of my hairstyle. Hair sprays, such as "Aveda: Control Force,™" help to ensure that one’s desired look remains just that—desirable. This is Aveda’s firmest hold hair spray. It offers long-lasting hold and humidity defense for all hair types and has a net-zero climate impact against the elements. It’s a dependable spray for a defining look.

Yves Saint Laurent: L’Homme Eau de Toilette 

The first and last impression is quite often found caged within the confines of one’s odeur: think of a man’s cologne as the unmarked door to a future dependent upon scent. An ill-suited cologne is not only an insult to propriety but is frankly a turn-off in general; and, in order to avoid disagreeable avoidances, spray on "Yves Saint Laurent: L’Homme" as a final touch after your skin and hair care regimens. The elegant floral and vibrating spicy notes effuse a sense of confidence, not cockiness, and sensual warmth. Take my word for it: I’ve used it every day since Christmas 2013 and have yet to receive a single critique. 

Related Article: Latest Beauty Products for Men