1. Plan ahead: There's no last minute fix. Plan your look and start following a grooming regime as much in advance as possible. Ten days ahead isn't just ideal, it's highly recommended.

2. Get something new: Go in for a change in your look. A good start would be a new hairstyle. Choose a look that makes you look as less scruffy as possible.

3. Less is more: Time to shave or trim your facial hair. The strongest trend this season: clean is back and here to stay. If you can't lose the beard - trim it down and create neat lines all along the sides. This will make you look smarter and sharper.

What to follow

Break your personal care routine down to daily, monthly, bi-monthly, etc.

Daily

• Use a water-based moisturiser at night, before you sleep. This should always be done on a clean face. Moisturisers don't just nourish the skin, but reduce visible signs of ageing, stretch marks and lighten fine lines. They also condition and revive the skin.
• Apply a heavy-duty lip balm at bedtime. This will soften the lips, prevent flaky dead skin and remove marks and stains.

Once a month or when you start

• Trim the unwanted hair on the ears, nostrils, and brows. For the brows, threading is a must to clean the centre and sides. Cut the few odd long strands of hair that make your brows look bushy.
• Pamper your hands and feet with a manicure and pedicure. Shorten the nails and clean the cuticles so the nail beds look and feel fresh and clean.

Twice a month

• Go for a haircut. On the first appointment, choose a new style or maintain your existing style and desired length. On your second visit, trim the length and remove the new hair growth under the ears, on the neck and all around your head.
• Invest time (and a little money) in a good oil massage. This won't just relax your muscles and soothe your mind, but also nourish and condition the skin.

Once a week

• Apply an effective face masque for deep pore cleaning and to tighten and brighten the skin. This is essential after the monsoon and before the onset of winter.
• Oil your hair with a light and natural oil of your choice. Leave overnight and shampoo in the morning. Follow up with a conditioner

Twice a week

• Use a face scrub to exfoliate, remove dead cells and polish the skin. Avoid sensitive areas and if you have pimples or acne.
• Generously apply a body lotion or moisturiser all over, especially the elbows, knees, ankles and feet.

Thrice a week

• Apply an astringent or toner just before bedtime. This will remove any excessive build up of oil, pollution and grime on the surface of the skin and will leave your skin feeling lighter and cleaner.
• Trim the beard, moustache and any excessive hair that makes your facial hair look out of shape or messy. Shave as and when you can. A clean and well-groomed look is the best gift you can give yourself and others this festive season.
• There are no last minute fixes. Plan your look and follow a regimen now

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