I used to overthink grooming — products lined up on the sink like a science experiment, half of them barely used. Living in New York cured me of that. Between early subway rides and late nights, I needed something that worked without eating up time or counter space. What I have now is simple, practical, and just enough to keep me feeling put-together.
This is my everyday grooming routine — the small habits that help me look and feel good without turning it into a full-time job.
Morning Routine: Quick but Intentional
I start with a cold splash of water. It wakes me up faster than any coffee, especially in winter. I use a gentle cleanser (currently CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser) because NYC air can be brutal — between humidity, dust, and subway grime, the skin takes a beating. A light moisturizer follows; I’ve learned it’s non-negotiable, even if I’m staying in.
If I’m heading out, I apply sunscreen — usually something with SPF 30 that doesn’t feel greasy. It’s one of those adult lessons you don’t appreciate until you see how much sun damage you’ve already collected from years of walking around the city unprotected.
Beard Care (or Lack Thereof)
I’m not a fan of high-maintenance facial hair. I keep it trimmed close — neat but not too sharp. Every few days, I use a trimmer with a short guard and clean the edges around my neck and cheeks.
I’ve tried beard oils, but honestly, most were too scented or greasy. Instead, I use a drop of unscented facial oil after trimming, which keeps things soft without turning my face into a mirror.
Hair Routine: Keep It Consistent
My hair doesn’t need much — a simple shampoo every other day (currently Head & Shoulders Clean) and a lightweight conditioner once or twice a week. I towel dry it and use a matte clay to shape things quickly. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s to look like I made an effort without looking like I tried too hard.
Every month or so, I get a clean-up trim. My barber in the East Village knows exactly how much to take off, and I stick with him — loyalty to a good barber is underrated.
Skincare: The 3-Step Rule
After years of testing, I’ve landed on three steps that actually make a difference:
- Cleanse gently (morning and night)
- Moisturize lightly
- Protect with sunscreen
At night, I sometimes use a retinol serum — nothing fancy, just enough to keep things even. The trick is consistency, not complication. I used to chase “instant results,” but now I care more about how my skin feels than how it looks under bright bathroom light.
Scent: Subtle and Personal
Fragrance is the quiet part of grooming that people notice only when it’s done right. I rotate between two scents — one clean and woody for daily wear, and one darker for evenings. I apply once, on pulse points, never a cloud around me. NYC elevators have taught me that subtlety is kindness.
Hands, Nails, and Details
This might be the most underrated part of grooming. I keep my nails short and clean, moisturize my hands before bed, and make sure my breath is always fresh (mint gum and a travel toothbrush help). Small things add up — clean hands and fresh breath leave a stronger impression than cologne ever will.
Minimal Tools, Maximum Use
Here’s what actually lives in my bathroom drawer:
- Electric trimmer
- Nail clipper set
- Toothbrush & floss picks
- Cleanser + moisturizer
- SPF
- Hair clay
- Two fragrances
That’s it. No fifteen-step skincare routines or fancy serums. Everything I use earns its space by working reliably, day after day.
How I Keep It Consistent
The biggest secret? Routine over motivation. I set everything up so it’s easy — towel within reach, trimmer charged, moisturizer visible. Once the system’s in place, grooming stops feeling like a chore and becomes just another rhythm of the day.
My Verdict
Keeping my grooming routine simple has made it sustainable. I spend less time deciding what to use and more time actually living. It’s not about perfection — it’s about showing up looking like I respect myself, even on days when I’m running late for the train.
In a city that never stops moving, simplicity is what keeps me grounded.
Written and tested by Chi Tran for 123Review.net.
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