Duckie Brown Embraces "The English Boy Look"

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to go to the Duckie Brown showroom to watch the designers, Daniel Silver and Steven Cox, prep for fashion week. (See post here.)  Today was their big show at Industria Studios and for both events I partnered with Conair to host behind the scenes videos.

Backstage was incredibly calm.  I'm not sure if it's because it was the first day of fashion week and things were a little slow or if it's because there were more men backstage than woman and they're more of a relaxed species all together.

Cox explained his inspiration came from his recent travels to England and wanted all of the men to look like men, but like English boys.  In America, I guess you can say they looked like private school boys.  The Conair stylist used their i-Stubble to make sure any facial hair was well groomed, sideburns were trimmed and the back of the guys necks were cleaned up.

Tinted moisturizer was all the men needed on their faces.  "It gives the boys super clean skin," Lottie, the lead makeup artist from Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics.  To make it appear extremely sheer, she applied it with a brush and kept thinning it out on the models' faces.

Tom Ford Dishes Why He (and All Men) Look Better with Age

One of my favorite blogs, 5th at 58th, the Bergdorf Goodman blog, recently posted an interview with one of the sexiest men alive, creative mastermind and top designer, Tom Ford. Besides discussing fashion (obvi) he also spoke about the extension of his beauty and skincare line and how he stays so damn hot. "I don’t look in the mirror and say, “Wow, I look great.” I look in the mirror and see all the things that need to be corrected, all the latest developments of aging," Ford comments.  "Whether you’re a man or a woman, you have to take care of yourself."

By taking care of himself, Ford admits to never drinking alcohol, smoking and steering clear of all sweeteners.  He's also maintained the same weight since he was in his 30's. Living on water and being somewhat of a health nut, has certainly paid off.  Looking at his lifestyle from an outside perspective, it's a little extreme (hey, we have to live), but why not look out for ourselves and strive to be our healthiest now and later?  I feel way too many people let themselves go after a certain age and comfort level in their lives.

The interviewer, long time friend and photographer, Lisa Eisner, discusses with him the fact that men typically age well.  I completely agree.  George Clooney anyone?  I think men age much better than woman, but are faced with the same societal pressures.  I really Ford's outlook on cosmetic surgery.

"Having cosmetic surgery doesn’t necessarily make you look younger or better. It does trim off that little piece of extra skin hanging around, so if that bothers you, fine. But I don’t think it tricks anyone into thinking you’re younger or in better shape or health."

To read more of the interview visit 5th at 58th.

How To Get Him To Upgrade His Grooming Loot

As anyone who reads this blog knows, we're the type of girls who sometimes purchase products just for their packaging (OK maybe more often than not), spend the extra $5 to get the gift with purchase and really do care how our perfumes look displayed on our bathroom counters.  It matters!  Now think about your man, if he had the same habits as you it could be considered a turn off (does the term metro-sexual even exist anymore?). However, when thinking about grooming compared to primping, if your man has the appropriate tools to manscape, and cared about his loot as much as you did yours, you'll benefit from the results.  Follow? Therefore, the best thing to do is to gift your boyfriend "just because" with manly products that he understands, but wouldn't necessarily buy for himself.

Example: The Art of Shaving 4 Elements to A Perfect Shave Kit, $100

For one, your man's not going to splurge on this for himself when he can use his one drugstore product to rid hair.  Slip this into being part of his birthday gift and tell him you thought he'd love the experience of getting the "barbershop shave" at-home.  Not his birthday?  Sometimes instead of purchasing another new cocktail ring or fall perfume for yourself think about him instead.  This is the first step to getting him to upgrade all of his products and the way he thinks about grooming.  It may be so worth it!

The Art of Shaving Kit comes with pre-shave oil (to soften the hair for a closer shave), shaving cream, after shave balm (super moisturizing) and a shaving brush.  His skin will feel as soft as a baby's bottom and his side of the medicine cabinet will look almost as nice as yours.  I mean, if I were a guy I'd totally want that little brush thing.

Eye Candy: Rafael Nadal for Armani

Ladies, meet Rafael Nadal.  For those of you who aren't tennis fans, he's a two-time Wimbledon champion and Giorgio Armani's latest muse.  Beginning in September, you'll be seeing this fine gentleman in ad campaigns alongside Megan Fox for Emporio Armani underwear and Armani Jeans.  Thank you Armani for always looking out for a woman's best interests. More pics after the jump.

Man of the Moment: Salvador

Meet Salvador, a stylist from LA who lists happy hour as one of his main hobbies.  I think if I lived in LA, we'd be good friends.  Check out his site, FashionSalvation.com and read on to find out more about his grooming habits and guiltiest pleasures. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

I can’t live without L’Oreal’s men expert Hydra-Energetic eye roller; it’s like a miracle stick for your eyes! I love love love it!  I also utilize L’Oreal’s go 360 clean, it’s perfect for the gym and keeps you fresh faced.  I have to confess I am a repeat offender when it comes to washing my face I also use Kiehl’s facial fuel and it’s the perfect boost I need every morning.  The secret to this product is that it’s made with coffee beans or at least that’s was the sales rep told me.

My latest grooming obsessions’ include “is Clinical’s” SPF 25 Sunscreen and Hydra-cool serum these products protect me from the sun while giving me the feeling of an instant moisturizing face-lift.

To top it off I use Dove’s ultimate beauty care anti-perspirant, Nick Chavez’s hair product “soft flocker” and Bliss spa’s body moisturizer.

What product can’t you live without and why?

My signature fragrance is Marc Jacobs Bang.  It makes me feel masuliane, sexy, and confident!  I<3 Marc!

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Intensive, good and well worth the results!

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

She would probably like them but think… it’s a lot.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do?

Ross Mathews (Chelsea Lately/The Tonight Show) he’s funny, sweet, and genuine.  Oh, wait I spend every night with him because he’s my better half.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Her sense of style, if she has a fully evolved sense of style then I feel she has a fully evolve sense of who she is as an indiviual.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Seriously, beauty products!  No lie, I just love them!  But I guess I made that obvious.

Also I’m addicted to tweeting and I LOVE Twitter!  I LOVE tweeting, I Love re-tweeting, and I love reading people’s tweets.  I just can’t get enough of that little blue twitter bird!  You can follow me on twitter @FSALVATION!

Behind the Scenes: Conair Collaborates with Duckie Brown for NYFW

"It's about a man being comfortable in his own skin," Designer, Steven Cox explained about the grooming inspiration for the Duckie Brown Spring/Summer 2012 runway show that's about to take place in just a few weeks.  "No harsh lines, well groomed, yet, not over done." This is where Conair comes in.  The brand partnered with Duckie Brown and will be grooming all 24 models backstage during New York Fashion Week this September. I got a sneak peek at the behind the scenes prep at the Duckie Brown Show room in the Meat Packing District and let me tell you, groomed or not, these men wore those clothes well!

The models were all there being styled and fit by the designers walking back and forth as if they were walking the runway making sure the movement of the clothes was just right.  Even though they were stripping down left and right, all eyes were on the grooming station.  Each one came scruffy for the job and a Conair stylist tested out their new i-Stubble trimmer.

Most of the models confessed they never shave bare to the face due to fear of irritation and breakouts so facial hair is their off-the-runway look as well. Everyone was impressed by the i-Stubble for two reasons – it has a floating head that allows for easy contouring around every face shape and there's no need to change the blades, which allows for convenience.

I hosted videos for yesterday's event on behalf of Conair and will be hosting more backstage during NYFW too.  I'll share the full video as soon as I get it.  Ladies, you won't want to miss this!

Man of the Moment: Sean

Ladies, meet Sean, a 29-year-old financial advisor who just moved out of NYC to PA and seems to have a really good sense of humor!  Besides sports (duh) he lists literature and music as some of his favorite things.  Sweet.  Read on to find out more about how he preps before dates, what he thinks of his grooming routine and more. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

You mean besides incredibly life-like hair dolls from all of the girls I have dated? I have a lot of Nivea products.  There is really no reason for that.  I mean, it’s not like I set out one day and said, “Sean, Nivea is the right product for you.”  It just kinda happened.  I’m talking Nivea shaving cream (or is it gel? Maybe foam? Not entirely sure), after shave, and body/face wash.  I use Garnier shampoo, because once in college this super hot chick told me my hair smelled nice and, well, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? I was also turned on to Tom’s toothpaste.  I used to stick to Colgate toothpaste, since I went to college at Colgate at all, but I think that Tom’s Wintergreen toothpaste is just the bees knees and brand loyalty only goes so far for me.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Air is definitely one product I cannot live without.  I mean, I could live without it for like, 37 seconds maybe, but after that things start to get pretty dicey.  I also think toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and other stuff that will prevent me from looking and smelling like I live under the Queensborough Bridge are pretty important.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Three words: Consistent, thorough, animated.  Merciless.  Insatiable.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Literally just asked this random chick sitting beside me in Starbucks.  She gave me a disgusted look, got up, and walked away.  I’ll take that as a tacit endorsement of my grooming habits.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Inflate the doll, dress her up in a real cute dress or appropriate seasonal attire, and try to make sure she stays away from all sharp objects until we reach our destination.  Oh, and I also like to make sure my breath smells good, my facial hair has been properly groomed, and I like to make sure my hair is comfortably styled somewhere between “I was at an Animal Collective concert at BAM last night I just got out of bed even though it’s 7pm” and “I’m a soulless Goldman Sachs drone”

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Clooney.  And I would do whatever leftover chick he didn’t sleep with that night.  Seriously.  I mean, Do you think George Clooney ever sits up at night and worries about what is going to happen to him in his next life? I mean Christ! How can anybody have this awesome of an existence? Oh I just dumped Elisabetta Canalis so now I’m just going to plow Stacy Keibler for a couple months for fun. No biggie. Nothing serious. Just a little flingy poo. He must have signed a deal with the devil or something. No other way to explain it. Here is a question for you: If somebody told you that you could have George Clooney’s life but you’d die at age 40 would you do it? I’d do it in a heartbeat. All I need is 29 years of his life and I’d happily call it a day.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Personality.  Ha, no, but seriously, I’m not really a “tits” man or an “ass” man or one of those weird fetish guys who like feet or hair or anything like that.  I like the whole package and I don’t discriminate against race, creed, or height.  Equal opportunity: It’s not just a hiring practice at McDonald’s, it’s also my dating philosophy.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Besides the 9 year old Filipino boy tied up in my basement?  I guess I’d have to say that being a die-hard fan of the Emmy award winning (note: I have done no actual research to determine if any Emmy awards were in fact won by this franchise, but I have to assume that many were) television series The Bachelor and, it’s ugly step-sister, The Bachelorette.

The Scent of Sexy, It's Simpler Than We Thought

After exploring countless medicine cabinets of men world wide and interviewing men and women on what they think smells sexiest on a man I've come to an ultimate conclusion on the number one scent that exemplifies sexiness, and it's not surprisingly not that complicated. The theory – Men just want to smell fresh. Freshness gives them confidence and women find confidence sexy.

Now one can argue that they're attracted to men who wear sensuous colognes with spicy notes or perhaps muskier, manly scents.  I'm not going to argue with you, in fact my favorite cologne is John Varvatos Vintage, and yes it does have that turn-me-on effect.

At the end of the day the question is: Do we want to be turned onto the man or the scent?  Of course a scent can help any situation, but confidence is key.  Everything starts with freshness.

Man of the Moment: Justin

Ladies, meet Justin, a 30 year old from LA who's a Co-Owner of SmokeStik (the company that makes electric cigs, gotta love smoking alternatives).  Naturally a Lakers fan, he's quite the athlete himself and enjoys surfing, boxing, running and hiking. Check out what he has to say about his grooming habits and guilty pleasures. What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Cor face soap (I am addicted to it), Neutrogena shaving gel, Neutrogena after shave lotion, Cor eye cream, Visine, and Perry Ellis Night cologne.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Cor face soap is magic for your face.  All of my guy friends are addicted to it.  Your face feels so smooth and clean and I swear I look younger every time I use it.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I am very need and clean cut.  I don’t like a lot of body hair.  I usually shower twice a day just because I hate feeling dirty.  I usually have scruff on my face but I keep it neat.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

I think any women would describe me as an neat freak (or even anal).  Besides my personal grooming I keep my room, car, and kitchen spotless.  My bathroom sink area is the only thing I have difficulty with.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Apply Cor face cream, use mouth wash, and a put on some Perry Ellis Night (not too much just enough to smell good).

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Well I love blondes but my go to celebrity has always been Rachel Bilson.  She has great style, a quirky personality, and a cute petite body.  I think she is so cute and would be a very fun date.  Not to mention very sexy!  One of my new favorite date spots is The Malibu Winery off Kanan Cyn in Malibu.  You can bring your own picnic and they have live music on the weekends.  The scenery is out of this world…and wine by the bottle.  There are picnic tables or you can set up your own area on the grass.  I think Rachel and I could have a very romantic time here.  Do I need to say more?!

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

I love blondes so usually the hair.  Up close I love beautiful eyes.  I can stare into gorgeous eyes all night and not get tired of it.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Red Wine…it’s the Italian in me.  I love it so much!  I am really trying to cut back…I really am but a great glass of pinot noir makes me love the world.

Kyoku Sake Infused Shave Creme for Him

This Japanese skincare company seems to know a thing or two about marketing to men – just add alcohol.  Kyoku, a men's skincare line made out of all natural ingredients from Japan, highlights sake as a key moisturizing ingredient in their shaving cream. Of course, I had Joe (the BF) put it to the test against his stubble.  He was an immediate fan of the cooling feeling and familiar menthol-like scent, but the directions annoyed him.  "Apply to wet skin with fingertips and let rest for two minutes."  Since he shaves daily, Joe's not the type of guy who has an extra two minutes to add onto his grooming routine. If your mans into really pampering himself, this stuff is essential.

A combination of silicones and yes, pure sake are to thank for the smooth shave. Available in normal and sensitive skin formulas for $34.  You can find it at Barneys or online.

The Men's Grooming Low Down: Yes, You Can Get Him to Change His Look

Known for creating the "look" for Diddy's posse at his annual White Party and making Perez Hilton's face feel as smooth as a baby's bottom (so I've heard), Craig the Barber gave me the 411 on men's grooming. Pay attention ladies – there's advice on how to change your guys look!  (Come on, you know you've at least thought about it!)

I love your article on "The Guide to Face Shapes and Grooming." Do men often ask to be groomed according to face shape or is it something you work with without telling them?

Thank you, it’s good to hear that you can see the benefits of my Face Shape article! Most men that sit in my chair initially do not ask. However, there is never a client that  leaves my chair without knowing their face shape and why their hair and or beard was cut and styled this way. And with that being said, I have quickly come to realize that once that seed has been planted, most return to inquire in greater detail about their face shape, and so do their referrals!

What's the best advice you can give to a woman who wants her man to change his grooming habits?

The best advice is to take it slow - the last thing a man wants is a woman that is determined to change them. Also, it can be overwhelming to adapt a new routine, so I always suggest starting with the basic essentials. Two of the easiest grooming items to introduce to a man is a face wash and a face moisturizer. Why? Because it shows the quickest and most obvious results!

To play it safe, try to stick with the same brand that he is currently using to shave with. That way it remains familiar and, in turn, is easily adaptable. Once he becomes comfortable with these steps, his mind will be open to more changes in his grooming routine.

As an expert in men’s grooming, what are your favorite products to use and why?

Wow, that really is a tough one! Because there are so many individual great products within so many lines, going through and listing each individual one would be tough. However, there are not many grooming lines that cover all the grooming needs for a man across the board successfully. One that I know, that can do this well is Lab Series Skincare for Men.  The brand has long understood that men require products formulated specifically for them and offer education to help men understand exactly how to address their skincare needs.  In fact, Lab Series is partnering with me on a series of consumer events across the country. We will be offering one-on-one skincare consultations and complimentary services, and answering any questions men may have about grooming.

Out of all of the celebrities you groom, what was one of the best "makeovers" you've ever done?

While I would love to answer this directly (trust me, I would!) I always err on the side of discretion when it comes to my celebrity clientele (although I consider all my clients  stars!). But in a general sense I can say that they have been quite mild. Simply because once a person has reached true celebrity status they have already created a "look” that is marketable for them. They generally don't want to risk that by making any dramatic changes. Therefore, as far as makeovers are concerned they are much more subtle, in order to avoid too much attention.

Man of the Moment: Benjamin

Ladies meet Benjamin, a 26 year old New Yorker who works as an editor at a publishing house.  Read on and you'll see he's quite the character!  And every time I feature a new Man of the Moment someone always asks, "Is he single?"  So yes, he is! What’s in your medicine cabinet?

Probably a lock of hair from the girl who last slept over, a picture of my mother, and my emergency stash of Alizé. Actually, though? Looks like some Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and deodorant, some type of hair gel for curly haired people (currently it appears to be made by Garnier Fructis), Kiehl’s face lotion, Vaseline for Men body lotion. Oh, and I hate cologne. It’s for people with crispy hair who use the word “classy.”

What product can’t you live without and why?

Hmmm is whisky a product? Because I’m pretty should that would be hard to live without. Also, I have a miniature Biggie Smalls figure that sits on my bookshelf, and he would be hard to part with. Can’t live without? I don’t know… soap? Toothpaste? Can anyone now live without that?

How would you describe your grooming habits?

“Grooming habits?” Am I cat? That brings me to a more important issue. Cats are awful. I’m a dog person. Particularly lazy, fat, all-white English Bulldogs.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

She’d probably say that I’m eerily similar to the Old Spice guy. In both looks and scent.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Brush my teeth, shower, and make sure I’ve queued up enough Taio Cruz, Waka Flocka Flame, and Usher feat. Pitbull for a late night DP at my apartment, which I try to always keep stocked with a variety of drinks…you never know. [Note: DP = DanceParty.]

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why? More importantly, what would you do?

Myself. Next question. No, but this is so tricky because who knows how shallow and awful they’d actually be. I’m basing my choice of Mila Kunis off of how down to earth she seems in Forgetting Sarah Marshall. But then what if she turns out to drug me and drive me to kill myself like poor Natalie Portman. Okay, so scratch that. Let’s do a dead celebrity. I’m thinking Teddy Roosevelt. That guy took a bullet straight to his chest, didn’t flinch, then stood up and gave an hour long speech. Plus I heard he could do a sick Dougie.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

It may sound crazy, but I always notice girls shoes. A sweet pair goes a long way. Doesn’t have to be heels, but just make sure they’re dope. Old Uggs in public make it look like you have two broken ankles. I get it, I know they’re super comfortable. But I don’t wear my old ass slippers out of the house. You shouldn’t either.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

I don’t really have a type, but ambition (both intellectually and physically), humor, and adaptation are key. The last one may seem strange, but here’s what I mean: you should be able to schmooze at some cocktail party with me, and, say, Mike Bloomberg, one second, then be in high-top sneaks, rocking out to Lil Weezy the next.

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Undateable: The Grooming Edition

There are so many things that make a man undatable.  I'm sure you can create an indepth list, but take it from me, a girl who finally found love after being single in NYC for years.  Ladies let me tell you, it all begins with grooming. Here's my list of what makes a guy undateable from head to toe and yes, everywhere in between if you know what I mean. If the subject has a uni-brow or brows waxed to perfection he is undateable. There is no excuse for a uni-brow. If there was a woman in his life at some point, she would have helped him take care of this situation. So chances are, he looks stupid and has no clue about dating to begin with. Or maybe he actually likes it. Don't barbers normally do something about those? And Guido brows... don't get me started.  They're a strict no, no. This normally signifies that he'll always be more prim and proper than you are in every way. Undateable.

If the subject has dirty fingernails he is undateable. Dirt underneath the nails, bitten cuticles and uneven (ouch) bitten nails equals unsanitary conditions. I'm not saying all men should be lining up for weekly manicures, but the way they take care of their hands often signifies how they like to represent themselves.  And he wants to touch you?  Forget about it.

If the subject takes longer than you to get ready he is undateable. Ladies, do you really want to sit around and wait to go out while Romeo primps? Ew, no. Undateable. Shit, shower and shave.  After all, he is a man.

If the subject doesn't understand how to maintain the land down under he is undateable. You know what I'm talking about. Trim? Shave? They need to do what they have to do, but neatness is necessary. This is 2011 and you know you're keeping it up so why shouldn't he?  No one wants to get lost in the forest while trying to find the goods.

If the subject wears a "wool sweater" year long (or ever) he is undateable. Yes, they're out there... men with hairy chests, shoulders and backs. Their body surrenders to the hair and they accept it! Not OK. There is no excuse for anyone to be that hairy or close to it. Men, I'm not saying to go wax your body, but severe maintenance is necessary. Do you really think a girl wants to run her hand on your chest and get tangles in your nappy hair?

If the subject's toe nails scratch you between the sheets he is undateable. It's as simple as a toe nail clipper. Please.

So ladies, watch out for these types of men. For some you may be able to tell if they're undateable right away. Others may surprise you as you get more intimate, but hey, it's all part of the dating game.  Right?

What other grooming habits make men undateable?

Men Are Like Black and White Cookies

How many times have you over analyzed a text, conversation or relationship? Reading a message over and over, replaying the way he said "good night" or how he kissed you... sound familiar? We're guilty of it, but enough is enough. Wasting your time over analyzing men is one of the biggest mistakes we make.  Why? Because they're really not that difficult to read.

In all honesty ladies, men are like black and white cookies. If they want to see you, they'll see you.  If they want to call you, they'll call.  And if they want to commit, they will.  Plain and simple, men are black and white.

Think about the wasted energy you put into over analyzing and how you can utilize it elsewhere.  Chances are if he's not calling, making plans with you or committing, he's just not that into you.  So if you're still doing the above, don't waste another second of your time trying to make it seem like he is and you'll end up with someone who's worth your time.

More Men Seeking Plastic Surgery

When I hear people talking about someone getting plastic surgery nine times out of ten I automatically assume they're talking about a woman.  A nip and tuck here and there is so common these days it's almost like going for a cut and color.  Almost... However, it's not so safe to assume all of the nips and tucks are being done on women.  According to recent statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgery, facelifts for men increased a whopping 14% in 2010. Liposuction, too, is on the rise with men, increasing a respectable 7%.

Reason for the spike?  Competition in the workplace.  So it's not just us women who have to look the part to play the part.  Interesting.  Instead of focusing on their youth and detailing every line and wrinkle, men have been looking to their jawlines for a quick fix.

Man of the Moment, Jeremy

Hi BeautySweetSpot readers!  I have a new 'Man of the Moment' for you this week, Jeremy, 33, from  Boston but lives in NYC.  He's in Digital Marketing and loves to swim, fish, boat and lift weights... yes, he's single.  He's the type of guy who chooses Angelina Jolie over Jennifer Aniston, but if he were to take any celeb out on a date he'd choose Teresa Palmer.  Check him out: What's in your medicine cabinet?

A wide assortment of Chanel men’s products: Platinum Egoiste deodorant, Platinum Egoiste bath and shower gel, Allure Homme Sport hair and body wash, Pour Monsieur after shave moisturizer, Men’s Lab products: Mulit-action face wash, Invigorating face scrub, Power wash, Power protector SPF 50, and Tend Skin.

I’ve been a big Chanel products fan since receiving a gift set in college for the holidays. As a guy, I get told I smell often, so it’s worth it. Men’s Lab makes quality products; I especially like using the face scrub before shaving and use the Power protector w/SPF 50 daily including as a sunscreen during the summer.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Chanel Platinum Egoiste deodorant. I have these hidden away all over the place (gym bag, bedroom, medicine cabinet. etc) and buy several at one time. I’ve used this product for so long I can’t imagine not having it. I’m a creature of habit.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

Despite the long list of fancy metro sexual products, I consider myself to be a low maintenance guy. On a typical day, I jump in the shower, slather myself up with one of the body wash’s from head to toe, floss, brush my teeth, rub some moisturizer on my face and I’m off 5 min later.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

Kind of impressed. I’ve had some help along the way from past girlfriends. The Chanel products seem to be a crowd pleaser.

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

Shave, mouthwash, and get a little more diligent with the body wash.

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Teresa Palmer. She’s incredibly beautiful, she has an Australian accent, and in the trailer for “I am Number 4” she’s kicking ass in a black leather jump suit and walking away from explosions without looking behind. I would spend a day with her on Cape Cod, boating to the Vineyard, biking around the island, eating lobster rolls, and lying on the beach until the sun went down.

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

Am I seeing her for the first time from the back or front? Nothing trumps a pretty face.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

Good skin and toned arms.

AXE is Tempting Me Again with Excite, Plus A Giveaway

You all know I'm a huge fan of AXE scents and it just so happens that my boyfriend, Joe, is too. Therefore, when I first heard that they were coming out with a new scent called Excite, he was the first person I called and we put the new collection to the test. Being a dedicated user of AXE in Leather, Joe's open to experimenting with new products from brands that are familiar to him.  I'm a lucky girl! So were the results as dramatic as the commercials?  Did he spritz it and find me running over to him from the other room to tackle him?  No, but as AXE says, it did "make the nice girl sin when tempted."

This new collection is more woody than the rest and blends notes of coconut, hazelnut and caramel.  It's not out on drugstore shelves until June, but I'm giving away 3 sets of the collection to 3 BeautySweetSpot readers!  Read on for deets on how to win:

Comment below by telling me what tempts you about your man and RT the givewaway on Twitter.  My handle is @BeautySweetSpot.

I'll announce the winner under the comments section here on April 30th.  Good Luck!

*Note: This is a sponsored post, but my actions and opinions are true.

Introducing the Man-i-Cure

Last week I received a press release for a Man-i-cure from the first OPI Concept Salon called the Rob|B Salon in Studio City, CA.  It caught my attention not only because I love writing about men and grooming, but because I've been wanting my boyfriend, Joe to get a man-i-cure and pedi with me for quite some time and he wants nothing to do with it. The man-i-cure break down:

• Cleansing – the first step to any manicure (male or female) is soaking and cleaning the nails. This is important because dirt, bacteria and illness causing germs can live underneath the nail and this is a great way to rid your fingers of this.
• Shaping – ideal for keeping each nail looking uniform and a great way to rid the nails of rough edges, hangnails, rips and tears.  A must have step for men who want their nails to look even.
• Cuticle work – cuticle care and maintenance help build the overall health of the fingers and nails but is very often overlooked by men. The cuticle needs to be hydrated and properly nourished so that it can promote a healthy nail bed.
• Hand care – exfoliation treatments such as sugar scrubs are an effective and easy way to get rid of rough skin leaving behind a much smoother hand.  Hydrating lotions are also applied to moisturize the hands so that they become much softer.
• Nail Buffing – designed to completely smooth out the nail and offer a low shine, this step leaves the nail looking extremely healthy.

I think it's important for men to keep up their hands!  What do you think of men getting manis?

Man of the Moment: Tim

Ladies, meet Tim, a 27 year old cutie from Hoboken, NJ.  He's a VP Portfolio Manager and loves to play ice hockey, go to the gym and snowboard.  And yes – he's single! What’s in your medicine cabinet?

1. Gillette Mach 3 Razor- no cuts, no crying, smooth every time…. Just like me, lol.
2. Neutrogena After Shave Balm
3. Neutrogena Face Lotion with SPF 15- Look Young, Live YOUNG!
4. Degree for Men Deodorant- keeps you cool in the hottest of situations
5. John Varvatos Cologne- My little secret (not so much anymore I guess) but remember smell is the #1 sense tied to memory… the ladies love it and they always come back for more.

What product can’t you live without and why?

Most products I can go without, but a toothbrush is a must have. Your breath can turn south at any moment  (food, coffee, morning breath, etc.) and who knows when your lady wants to get intimate or if you are going to meet your next big client. The last thing you need is your breath barking something nasty.

How would you describe your grooming habits?

I’m a clean cut guy… clean shave, clean cut hair and well dressed (clean those shoes). A shape up (haircut) normally happens every 2-3 weeks and I try for a straight razor shave (if you can find a barber in NJ with the license). Keep those lines tight, just like your game.

My people at The Hoboken Man (www.hobokenman.com) take care of the basics for me, even a clean up between haircuts. I think the ladies appreciate and see effort in a well-kept man. It shows discipline and self-worth.

Now be honest, how would a woman describe your grooming habits?

All the ladies in my life, past and present, I think would agree, that I always smell good and I keep it fresh!

When prepping to go out on a date what are the three things you make sure you do?

1. Shower up!

2. The secret weapon- a dash of cologne--- A little Johnnie V. to get lucky!

3. A RESERVATION- you need to have a good game plan. Don’t even tell her, make it a surprise, but make it good and make it count!

If you could have one night with any celebrity who would it be and why?  More importantly, what would you do?

Male Celeb: Some guys may think Tom Brady, because lets be honest, he is the man (Super Bowls and Supermodels), but I would like to spend a day with Leo DeCaprio. The lady-killer himself, hasn’t had a boring day in his life. We’d probably just hop on a jet to some crazy island party and rock out… Talk about a wingman, this dude nails down the women in his sleep haha.

Female Celeb: Mila Kunis….for obvious reasons. This woman is a complete smoke show. I’d like to shop-hop with this one. Close down a few stores and let her get her fashion on. Seriously, what chick wouldn’t like that? She seems like she is a good time no matter what. Later on our date, we would get those endorphins and adrenaline pumping at the gun range (www.westsidepistolrange.com), Now that’s something to get her excited in all sorts of ways! Now that the momentum has been built the night is only going to get better from there…  Hopefully she sees this and I get a call next week to implement the plan!

What’s the first thing you notice about a woman?

I’m going to be honest. I look at 4 things right off the bat. Top to bottom-

1. Eyes- The gateway to the soul. Evil or Angel?

2. Smile- I’m a funny guy so the smile comes out a lot.

3. Boobs- Big isn’t always better, but no one is going to complain about some big bombs.

4. Bootie- A girl’s bootie can tell me a lot. Good in bed, yes or no? Healthy, yes or no? Athletic, yes or no? That’s why boobs aren’t such a big item in my book.

When it comes to a woman’s beauty what’s your sweet spot?

All women are beautiful in their own way, but it’s a combination of book and streets smarts that hits my sweetspot. Intelligent, confident and ambitious women are what I look for. I know one day she is going to manage her own business or even our awesome family.

Oscars 2011, Russell Brand

I love seeing men in tuxedos, but especially loved how Russell Brand wore black with navy at this years Oscars. His tux wasn't all my favorite (at all!), but the color pairing was on par.

The English comedian was there to present the award for Best Foreign Language Film.  Of course you're probably expecting he brought his wifey Katie Perry, but since she's on tour, he brought his mom!  So sweet!

What do you think? Do you mix black with navy?

Rumor has it Russell told E!'s Ryan Seacrest how handsome he looked and leaned over and planted a kiss on his cheek!  Ryan actually kissed him back!  Hmmm, when Katy's away Russell will play?  Probably not, but Ryan on the other hand... that one leaves me wondering.