Gone are the days when the extent of a man’s morning routine was a splash of cold water and a quick comb-through. In 2025, grooming is less about vanity and more about harnessing a ritual designed to set the tone for the day. Whether you’re heading to the boardroom, the gym, or your home office, there’s power in starting your morning with intention, precision, and a little self-respect.
We’re not talking about fussy 12-step skincare routines or spending hours in front of the mirror. Formulating a solid morning routine is about craftsmanship. Discipline. A little bit of luxury, and a whole lot of swagger.
Male grooming: What the pros are saying
“I’ve noticed that men are increasingly prioritising self-care and taking pride in their appearance, which boosts their confidence. There’s been a surge in barbershop demand and new businesses catering specifically to male grooming. Self-care is no longer viewed as a feminine trait; it’s recognised as essential for everyone.” – Alvin Mills, founder of Shyne
“All men want to feel clean and fresh and have the best skincare. We want to look our best at all times. Having a morning and nighttime skincare routine really is an opportunity to pamper yourself and take care of the most important organ you have: your skin!” – Babatope Aiku co-founder and CEO of Daba
“More than ever social media has made us image focused. Even though Ashton Hall’s viral morning routine was a bit gimmicky, it gave insight into how men are making grooming a part of their lifestyle.” – Sheldon Edwards, founder of HDCutz
Ashton Hall redefines grind mode
TikTok star and men’s lifestyle content creator Ashton Hall made waves when he posted his “6:03 A.M. Rule”. The part exercise and grooming ritual consisted of some questionable antics i.e. rubbing banana peel on the face and a four minute air dive in to the pool. Nevertheless, with millions of views and thousands of imitators, his mantra says it all: “If I don’t respect my own routine, how can I expect the world to?”
Your arsenal for your male grooming routine refresh
1. Ultimate Eye Vitamins, £49.99
Put the sparkle back in bleary morning eyes with this no-nonsense multivitamin. Designed to relieve dry eye and eye strain from the inside out, it has the sign of approval from Moorfields Eye Hospital doctors too.
We lurve the fact this is created by men for men with melanin-rich skin. The fast-absorbing formula eliminates ashy creases and evokes a 24 hour glow.
3. This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray, £24
Get a great night’s sleep by misting a few spritzes at bedtime to help reduce anxiety and wake up revived for the next day.
4. DCYPHER Blur Balance Primer, £25
Create the perfect shine-free canvas without too much effort. Enriched with pumpkin seed, this mattifying primer controls oil and minimises the appearance of wide-opened pores.
5. Aesop Lucent Facial Refiner, £67
A rinse-off exfoliating mask that simultaneously refines and replenishes. The results? Skin with a more even texture and appearance. Think of this as a mini spa facial to kick start the day.
6. Sunny Isle Jamaican JBCO Beard Oil, from £6.99
Jamaican black castor oil makes hair glisten and appear visibly darker. All the checkpoints for a lush looking beard. Massage in a few drops each morning before heading out the door.
7. Shea Moisture Leave-in Conditioner, £14.99
It’s all about manicured curls—shine definition and hydration. Whether you spend 5 minutes or 60 minutes in front of the mirror, bag an ultra-moisturising leave-in conditioner like this one.
It’s small but mighty and one for the manbag. The balanced blend of butters and oils doesn’t deliver OTT shine, but you can count on lips being conditioned in one swipe.
Feature image c/o Skin Proud
