GROOMING TIPS FOR THE MODERN MAN

Keeping up a fresh appearance is not just for the overtly metrosexual men of the world with their pampered baby faces and fancy designer duds. Even the rugged, good ol’ boys shouldn’t shy away from at least keeping a nicely trimmed beard, lest you want to conjure up images of Grizzly Adams. Therefore, Healthy Living shares five tips that will get you looking good and feeling even better.

SHAVE IT OFF: While many men may feel like nothing screams machismo like a full-on beard, I’m sure many women will agree there’s nothing attractive about a man walking around looking like a singer from ZZ Top. And while some stubble can be a chick magnet, to gain that sexy fuzz you have to first start with a nice, clean shave.

To shave properly, men should first thoroughly wet the beard. Then, make sure to shave in the direction that the hairs lie and avoid repeating strokes. Most importantly, keep the skin relaxed and moisturize afterward. Also, don’t forget to trim those nose hairs and eyebrows.

A KISSABLE KISSER: No one wants to make out with a raisin, which is why lip care is so important, even for men. Because lips do not contain oil glands, they tend to dry out very easily. For some, the dryness can be worse during certain seasons or if the person is a frequent lip licker. To curb chapped lips, try keeping the air moist in your home or office with a humidifier. Also, avoid wetting your lips and use lip balm that contains sunscreen.

FUNKY FEET: Just because they stay hidden in socks and shoes most of the time doesn’t mean your feet should be neglected. In addition to warding off tinea fungus that can cause athlete’s foot and nail fungus, make it a priority to add pedicures (and manicures) to your grooming routine. And no, running some water over your feet and trimming your toenails with scissors won’t cut it. Make an appointment at a nail salon. You might think it’s girly, but your wife will gladly thank you for it.

A HAIRY SITUATION: While some body hair is acceptable, excessive body hair is a big no-no. Waxing and shaving are great options to tame unruly hair on places like your back, chest, and even armpits. But if keeping up with a weekly maintenance routine is proving to be a bear, laser hair removal can also be an option, albeit a pricier one.

FACE TIME: How do you think George Clooney still manages to turn heads at 52? More than likely, he has a great skin care routine for his face. The first step to keeping a youthful appearance is having a cleanser perfect for your skin type. (And please, don’t use the soap you use to wash your body to wash your face.) Follow up with a toner to clean and tighten pores and a moisturizing cream with sunscreen and you will be ready for your own paparazzi.

When bad snacks go good

As you sit back cheering on your favorite team, you may not realize that between the pizza, chips, and beer, you are consuming calories faster than your team can score. Put down the bag of Doritos and try these healthy alternatives. And with any luck, you will come out more victorious than the other team.

• As tasty as it is, a traditional seven-layer dip could contain as much as 700 calories. Make it healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, Laughing Cow cheese in place of cream cheese, black beans instead of refried beans, and homemade guacamole over storebought brands. Also use freshly chopped lettuce, vegetables, and 1/3 cup of reducedfat shredded cheddar cheese on top.

• You know those fried buffalo wings you ordered? One pack has nearly 1,700 calories. Instead, bake boneless chicken breast strips. Also, use low-fat ranch dressing instead of full-fat blue cheese dressing. Six strips will be less than 300 calories.

• Instead of a plate of greasy 500-calorie french fries, try getting your fry fix by using sweet potatoes. Also, bake them instead of frying them. Just drizzle your fries with olive oil and pepper and toss in the oven until they are crispy.