Make 2012 the year you take care of yourself!

It’s the beginning of a new year. A time of resolutions, self-improvement and vows to “manscape” more often.

Yes, you heard that right. According to two local experts, more men than ever will be making improvements to their skin and hair this year.

Vivian Moore, managing vice-president of Mitchell’s Salon and Day Spa, says “Hairstyles for men will reflect the growing trend of a groomed male, in ways that relate to his individual style. The biggest change will be the end of the ‘mowing with clippers in his bathroom mirror,’” she explains. “Instead, his overall appearance needs to show he cares enough to get real haircuts.”

In fact, she says, by growing the top out and keeping the back and sides short, any guy can have a new style in just six to eight weeks. “This doesn’t have to mean an extra 30 minutes each morning,” Moore adds. “With the right products he can towel dry, apply, and go.”

But what about color? Moore says she expects to also see men take advantage of hair color options that can either blend or cover grey, or enhance their haircut – without looking like they accidentally got into their sister’s hair dye. “A few painted-on highlights through the front or an overall conditioning color service to add shine and tone can easily be worn by men without making a long term commitment,” Moore says.

Eyebrow tinting – yes, eyebrow tinting – is another hair-related trend Moore says is on the uptick. “Everyone has them, everyone needs to pay attention to them. The uni-brow isn’t a good look on anyone,” she laughs. “Fifteen minutes with a trained professional every six weeks will make all the difference. But don’t try it at home.”

As for skin, Robin Drake, Esthetic Manager at Mitchell’s Salon and Day Spa says she’s seeing more men coming in for waxing and facial treatments. “Back and chest waxing services have more than tripled over the last few years,” she says. “Men also love a deep cleansing facial with steam and warm towels and a facial masque to hydrate and balance the skin.”

Agreeing with Moore about the new eyebrow trend, she says “brow tweaking” is now a common men’s service. “Most men don’t want the sculpted look on the brow,” she explains, “but they are very concerned with a groomed and more professional look.”

When it comes to men’s skin care, they want simple and uncomplicated, Drake says. “A good deep cleansing product containing salicylic acid is a great choice.” She also recommends a SPF of at least 15 for daytime and a good nighttime treatment containing peptides.

“It was only a few years ago that when a man was booked for a spa service they would seem very uncomfortable sitting in the spa lounge waiting for their service provider,” Drake recalls. “Those days are gone. Now you will see them just kicking back and relaxing.”

Well done, men. This news makes us ladies proud. Now, book your next salon appointment to keep up the good work!