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Articles

1. The press release

2. It's Just Good Spousekeeping

3. Cosmetics not just for women anymore; international market for men's products growing every year

4. Men's cosmetics put a new face on masculinity

5. MensLooks Editorial

6. 49 and holding

7. The arrival of Mr. Binks

8. My first time

9. Mens Vogue

10. To all you amazing and influential women…

11. Online Image

12. FOOD AND WINE — Making You Look Good

13. Toro Magazine

14. Thoughts To Help You Lose Weight

15. Guide to Table Manners

16. Benefits of working with image consultants

17. Arena Magazine - Latest Issue

18. Indoor Rock Climbing for Fitness: It's Not Extreme Anymore

19. Chill Out - Work-Life Balance: More Harmony, Less Stress Finding balance between work and life in today’s fast-pace

20. Ty Howard's Questions and Answers

 1. The press release

 Cosmetics makers say men are a fast growing market segment

Cosmetics, apparently, are not just a woman's obsession anymore. Sales of skin creams and other such products to men rose about 18 percent in 2004, an industry report says. That's compared to a six percent increase among women. All total, men account for about $52 million of the $2 billion annual cosmetics sales. While that is still a tiny amount of the whole pie, men are coming to the market faster than ever, experts say.

Original news summary: (http://www.northjersey.com)

  • Fucci swears by the high-end department store brand, Clinique, which in 1976 became the first cosmetics company to offer a men's grooming line.
  • U.S. sales of men's skin care products accounted for $52 million of a $2 billion total in 2003, according to Shiseido, a Japanese company that employs 200 at its New Jersey facilities.
  • In the first half of 2004, men's skin care sales grew 18 percent, compared with 6 percent for women.
  • Even the macho stalwart Old Spice got into the act last year by copying a trend familiar to women, selling its Red Zone line of body washes, sprays and deodorants with matching scents.
  • "There are still those guys who send their girlfriend into the department store, but they're using the products," said Nancy DiGaimo, assistant editor of Cosmetic World, a New York-based trade magazine.
  • DiSciascio said he thinks cosmetics and beauty care companies should appeal to men by telling them the products will improve their shave.

Article courtesy of news target http://www.newstarget.com




 

  2. It's Just Good Spousekeeping

Why women feel compelled to clean, polish and moisturize their mates.

It's often said that behind every great man there's a great woman. What they don't tell you is that she's there because she's either shaving her partner's back, popping his hard-to-reach zits or exfoliating the dead skin off his sunburn.

Such is the unsavoury but almost universal behaviour of the fairer sex behind closed doors. Just as primates are predisposed to grooming their mates, women feel inexplicably compelled to clean, polish and moisturize our men until their testosterone turns a pale shade of pink.

Ask any guy and he'll admit - perhaps a tad reluctantly - that at least one female in his life has prodded him with tweezers, tugged at a stray eyebrow hair or attacked a pimple on his back as if it were threatening the state of democracy.

Some might call it obsessive.

We prefer to call it good spousekeeping.

To be clear, the goal isn't to turn men into women with these cosmetic rituals. Who then would kill spiders and open jars?

We simply want a guy with the body of Brad Pitt, the grooming of Prince William, the hairlessness of a dolphin, two separate eyebrows and the willingness to buy us tampons on the way home from work.

Really, is that too much to ask?

Because men don't come with warranties, their significant others can't return them to the manufacturer - namely, mommy dearest - when something malfunctions. So it's imperative to perform regular maintenance, which entails everything from monitoring his cholesterol to overseeing his skincare habits and preventing the unholy union of socks with sandals.

Writing in the new issue of T: The New York Times Style Magazine, S.S. Fair issues a clarion call to women who want to further this curious practice.

"It's time we divert those queer eyes from our straight guys and take over decorating and renovating the opposite sex ourselves. It's time for us to rescue the clueless hetero man from being bossed around by anyone but us."

To our credit, we somehow manage to control our compulsive grooming urges at the beginning of a relationship. Much the same way guys control urges to clean the bathroom - their entire lives.

But as a comfort level builds and the bathroom door is less likely to stay closed, a female's desire to bust out the hair clippers and channel Edward Scissorhands becomes too overpowering to ignore.

Of course, straight men would sooner watch a Highway to Heaven marathon with Richard Simmons than submit to the whims of a wannabe spousekeeper. But upon realizing that a woman brandishing tweezers, antiseptic and a safety pin is likely the closest they'll ever get to S & M, most surrender.

Just days ago, a co-worker confessed her husband gamely indulges her need to pluck the wiry black hairs from his neck.

Another revealed a profound sadness that her talon-like nails bar her from attending to her boyfriend's back blemishes. (If he ever needs a tracheotomy, however, she's totally prepared.)

A third woman sheepishly chimed in, exposing her secret penchant for peeling the dead skin off her hubby's arms and shoulders.

Not surprisingly, this type of gritty discourse is lacking around the water cooler, thus leading every man to believe he's alone in being treated like a science project in the bathroom. Each feels that if anyone were to discover why his nose hairs no longer runneth over, Maxim would suspend his subscription and he'd be denied entry at Hooters.

Today, we break the code of silence and recognize those who have suffered physical indignities in the name of female neuroticism. Men, believe it when we say you are not alone.

Just follow the trail of pink testosterone.

The stories of Misty Harris can be found in such high-profile publications as the National Post, the Chicago Sun-Times, Flare magazine, the Montreal Gazette, the Ottawa Citizen, the Vancouver Sun and the Edmonton Journal, among others. Misty lives in Edmonton, where she is currently plotting how to finance her next Chanel handbag.

  Misty Harris
   
 

By Misty Harris
Canwest News Service
Published October 2005
Courtesy www.menessentials.com

  3. Cosmetics not just for women anymore; international market for men's products growing every year

More and more men across the world are using cosmetics these days, and they're apparently not embarrassed to admit it, new reports conclude. New skin care brands such as Biotherm Hommes and Clarins Mens have had good care brands such as Biotherm Hommes and Clarins Mens have had good success with their products intended for men, and a recent industry poll showed that 77 percent of men agreed that coloring hair is a "masculine" thing to do..'

Original news summary: (http://www.thecosmeticsite.com/1230177.html)

  • Men are increasingly seeking cosmetics and coloring their hair...
  • Men are increasingly seeking cosmetics, according to a report featured by the Daily Star.
  • The trend was said to begin a few years ago but it recently began to increase as a growing number of cosmetics and skin care brands introduced lines for men.
  • One beauty expert said male customers are more regularly looking for manicure and pedicure sessions.
  • The international market for male cosmetics grows larger every year - whereas in the beginning it only encompassed hygiene products.
  • Brands such as Biotherm Hommes and Clarins Men continue to expand their product lines to meet the increasing demand.
  • In a related story, a new hair color survey revealed more men color their gray A recently-released Just For Men survey, conducted on behalf of Combe Incorporated, found that most men are not afraid of others knowing they color their gray hair.
  • The report, as featured by PR Newswire, was a national Internet survey conducted by Target Research Group and Decision Analysts that asked 225 men ages 18 to 64 if they would be embarrassed if others knew they colored their hair; and if they thought coloring their gray hair was a "femine" thing to do.
  • Of the respondents, 43 percent said that they would not be embarrassed if others knew they colored their hair and more than three quarters (77 percent) of respondents agreed that coloring their hair is a masculine thing to do.

care brands such as Biotherm Hommes and Clarins Mens have had good success with their products intended for men, and a recent industry poll showed that 77 percent of men agreed that coloring hair is a "masculine" thing to do.'

Article courtesy of news target http://www.newstarget.com

  4. Men's cosmetics put a new face on masculinity

By DANIEL J. VARGAS
Copyright 2004 Houston Chronicle

Blake Smith is a modern man, and in this manicure-pedicure, metrosexual era he feels comfortable using eye gel to reduce puffiness and dark circles, and a face scrub to exfoliate dead skin cells, as part of his morning regimen. Occasionally the pop singer, who was raised in Houston, dabs a little concealer to hide blemishes and pats some anti-shine powder on his face when he's preparing for a live performance.

See rest of the article at……

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/features/2651682

 

Courtesy of askmen.com, the worlds largest portal for men.

For all your dating, sex, divorce, relationship questions we highly recommend visiting the largest portal for men. You can find all this information at…

www.askmen.com.

Mayo Clinic Health Information's award-winning consumer Web site offers health information, and self-improvement and disease management tools. MayoClinic.com's medical experts and editorial professionals bring you access to the knowledge and experience of Mayo Clinic for all of your consumer health information needs, from cancer, diabetes and heart disease to nutrition, exercise and pregnancy.

The Mayo clinic has several articles on skin care, sunscreens, skin cancer. Use these search words and find their current articles. The Mayo clinic changes their articles so go back every so often to see any new articles.

See their site www.mayoclinic.com

Email us at info@menslooks.com with any comments or suggestions for Future articles.

Disclaimer:
The men's skin care and other advice on this web site are also intended for education and entertainment only. It does not replace the advice of a physician/specialist. Seek the advice of a physician/specialist if your skin condition warrants medical attention. Menslooks does not have control nor warrant content and information found on other sites it may suggest or link to. The findings and opinion of authors expressed herein are those of the author and do not state or reflect those of menslooks.com

Guys, we need to start caring about our looks, skin care and overall presentation!

There are great on line sites providing solid advice on relationships, divorce and dating, - judging by the number of monthly hits on these sites, we really need help!!! That said, it’s only part of the picture – part of feeling good about yourself is feeling confident about how you look. We need to develop an overall healthy approach to our lives.

Menslooks.com encourages men to take care of their skin and their looks. Women have known all along, that taking care of your skin can make you look younger and feel great. With today’s men’s skin care, cosmetic lines and cosmetic options, how you choose to take care of your skin and your looks has never been easier. We have found that the most consistent advice in the industry is to protect your self from sun damage. Men’s skin care and cosmetics is a rapidly growing industry as men have more courage and knowledge about skin protection and enhancement. Men’s skin care and cosmetic manufacturers have introduced products created specifically for men. At the same time, every manufacturer of leading women’s cosmetic lines has developed a men’s line, using years of research and experience. Hair care for men, after shave and fragrances have all developed at a ferocious pace in the past few years. Cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non surgical, are available for men and growth in this area has been exponential.

General lifestyle changes are also very important for maintaining a youthful look and sex appeal: a focus on exercise, diet, avoiding cigarettes and reducing stress are some of the positive ways to achieve this. Our world has become very demanding, it’s important to keep our vitality, positive outlook, feel good about ourselves and the way that the rest of the world sees us. We trust you will find this site helpful, not only for those who want to remain competitive and stay on top of fashion and pop culture trends,, but also for those who are looking to recapture their more youthful looks once again.

We’ll show you how and where to purchase men’s skin care products, cosmetics and fragrances. The site will feature articles from some of the most influential sites on men’s health, fitness and advice relating to men’s looks. We also ask men to consider the effects of over exposure to the sun on their children, to help them develop good sun protection habits at an early age.

Life today, has us taking stock of how we look. Recently a survey in Europe of teen age school boys reported that over 70% were not happy with their looks. While this is unfortunate in some respects, it does indicate that the shift of males paying attention to how they look, has occurred. Our competitive work force demands us to remain young and be change agents. With so many divorces, many men reenter the dating scene in their 40’s and 50’s, (and things are a bit different from the last time they dated)! The line: “Men age like good wine” doesn’t cut it any more. We think the ad for L’Oreal’s new men’s skin care line, Expertise sums it up perfectly: “You think lines add character, she thinks lines add years. L’Oreal, because you’re worth it.” Well, aren’t you?

We’ve noticed an increase in services catering to men’s health and looks: Magazines, Spas for men and even Barbershops are now offering specialized services and products.

We will be coordinating national events to promote men’s cosmetics, fragrances, travel, spas and image building.

Now is the time to start looking as good as you feel…..

Editor
Michael j hollis

49 AND HOLDING!!!!

By the time I was closing in on 50, I started to notice quite a few things changing, and they weren’t for the better! It was slow at first, but telling signs started to surface one by one.

My clothes just didn’t seem to feel as comfortable, despite the fact I was obsessed with running and walking anywhere and everywhere. The scale lied and said, “Hey, you’re looking pretty good for your age, but the reflection in the store windows didn’t lie. Who was that middle aged, rather “rounded looking individual – certainly, it could not be me! I have to admit, though, that despite my shock and horror, I was still able to out eat my teen age sons! Now what is THAT all about?!( I have to admit I have a sweet tooth - deserts are to be enjoyed,right?

The next trauma came when our main shareholder where I was working at the time made the innocent (right!) comment; “This project is turning Sean Grey”. Later that month, things got even worse! During a fishing trip, I was advised by a contemporary that I should wear a hat to keep my thinning scalp from burning. What thinning hair, had my hair stylist kept something from me? Oh, the shame!

The ladies at the office were very helpful, giving me advice on how to look a bit trendier with my clothes if I was going to play the nights!!! ( I still don’t understand what was wrong with that blue shirt – it was one of my favourites!

Hmm, well if nothing else, I was certainly getting a lot more respect from the younger generation of females; they readily addressed me as “Sir”. If anything is a reality check, that is!

Cruising the bars was not my scene, nor was it working – took me a while to realize that the attractive brunette sitting at the bar at 2 am with her umpteenth cocktail was not likely to be my “one and only”!! It was also quite evident to me that hangovers were not something brag about (or live through) at this age!

Even my car was looking tired - an inheritance from the last big break up.

One night, we were all talking about our favorite subject: “women”, when the topic of online dating came up. “Do you mean you could just specify the age, city, height, hair color personality, lifestyles and search for your true love? Well, that was all I needed to put the late night bars behind me. Online I went; there were several recommended sites to choose from.

I had to fill in my profile, not a problem for this part time racing driver, astronaut and now retired top tennis pro (yah, right!). Hmm - now to age. I am sure I can drop a few years with a stroke of the keyboard - everyone says I look younger than my age. I am told that most people keep their real age to them selves. The site says pictures will more than double your hits and responses and it is true!

So, I ask my son to take a few pictures. Well, after repeated complaints against the lighting, his poor timing and his inability to capture my “youthful” image, I realize the mirror is the biggest liar of them all. I was shocked by the bland hair color, the fuller face, dark circles, the middle aged, suburban hair cut - not to mention that and I am heavier than I ever realized. That can’t be me! “Wow, I really DO look my age, or older”, I could hear my self say. We gradually get used to seeing ourselves and living in the denial that we “don’t look so bad “for our age, ignoring the effects that over exposure to the sun, aging, stress and life style has had on our appearance. Thanks to the beauty digital photography, I was finally presented with the truth. GREAT!

I was not in a good place. I do not want to look my age. Simple as that!!!!

Reading the latest men’s magazines, I sought sage advice and then put my master plan into effect.

Need to drop a few pounds; cut out deserts and bad carbs, watch the processed foods,get more sleep, exercise at least 4 -5 days a week, get a new hair style and finally get the courage to ask for augmentation to the color of my hair.

Off I went, to the men’s clothes shop; now, even my boys borrow my shirts - so I was obviously on the money with my choices.

I decided to get a facial; the last one was a gift certificate some years back. My specialist was very informative on all the crèmes, serums and cleansers, especially helpful with recommendations for my dark circles and crowsfeet.

You know, I started to feel better; look better, I even spent some money on the car.
Call it mid life crisis, I call it reality: I do not want to look my age, so, I wanted to do something about it. Judging from the growth in men’s skin care and cosmetics, it would appear that I am NOT alone!

Robert Marshall
Free lance writer
Toronto

 

 7. The arrival of Mr. Binks


THE ARRIVAL OF MR. BINXS.

Fall was upon us once again. Coming home at the end of the day, I always felt like I was entering my own special retreat. Living on one of the most beautiful properties on the water, is so tranquil. I was getting settled into a very comfortable routine after raising my two boys and seeing them leave home. Rituals could now be enjoyed with privacy. Like many others, I had downsized into a manageable place once the family had left.

Time on the internet was all mine. I could blast my stereo with music I actually loved; no high fat snack foods or sodas in the house; walking around in the raw, workouts in briefs, a choice that was all mine. My clothes, hair care and skin care products were finally safe I could entertain with all the freedom and indiscretion my heart (or body) desired! Finally my place looked great and should I say, neat and organized.

Then, the call came; "Dad, can I move back home for about 3-4 months before I leave the country?" Well of course, the answer was automatically yes - it has been a while since he was home and besides, it means that he still needs me! In some respects, I really treasured the opportunity to bond with my son once more before he left the country, possibly for good. I felt that the dynamics of living under the same roof again would be somewhat different than when I was a single parent, trying to raise a family on my own. My boys are both single, so fortunately, there was no “baggage”. Well, so to speak of, except for Mr. Binx, my son’s one year old, ginger tabby. I have made a conscious effort to not have any pets at home since the dog left town a few years ago along with my ex.

Once my son moved in, I could recognized a distinct maturity level since he left home four years ago- it was quite a rewarding feeling, knowing that could see that I had done a really good job in raising him. I look back on my days of "motivation", ( discipline if you could call it) - sleepless nights, waiting up till all hours, cooking, laundry, housekeeping, school, Saturday soccer and shall we say, dealing with their "friends" and everything associated with that!

My 24 yr old son and I (the quintessential baby boomer) have many common interests. We now both have a bond with Mr. Binxs, love to play loud music, like the internet, TV, food, like to wear stylish clothes, and our taste in magazines is very similar – the only difference is the issue of smoking – DON’T get me started on that one! You would think that this generation would have learned a thing or two!

I knew things had truly changed, when my son offered to cook dinner, a BBQ delight. It was a great help having him assist me with all my music downloads for my i-pod. He’d studied graphic design, web design so having him as a resource was invaluable, given that I am working on a few online businesses.

Well, as is always true with life, there are things that we must endure with great patience. Turns out my son’s music taste is not compatible with mine- as a former musician, I like to keep current as I can. I am a big alternative music fan. My son, however, is into hip hop, rap, reggae and a limited amount of alternative.

Our TV habits are also completely different. Magazines: While I like to read my Coastal Living, Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness and Details, we both have an appetite for Maxim. While I greatly appreciated my son’ thoughtfulness with the surprise lunch that he brought home this weekend, (delicious, huge sausage sub, dry roasted peanuts and a pop) it didn’t quite fit my recommended Mediterranean diet requirements.

Back to the cat - by now, I could tell Mr. Binxs was settling in quite comfortably. Why not? I believe that in this new environment, he was getting more attention, not to mention regular food and water. I am sure my son’s long hours at work, late nights out and staying over night at friends may have left Mr. Binxs alone and lonely many nights. Having said that, I am quite taken by the bond between my son and Mr. Binx. This cat hangs on his every word, watches his every movement and comes instantly when my son calls him. It is very heartwarming, indeed.

Of course, we clash over the domination of my laptop. My son’s computer had crashed – he was now living with me and my brand new laptop, so why buy a new one just yet?!

On the subject of wardrobe, it was quite interesting; my jackets, shoes and jeans where more than acceptable for him to “borrow”. Well, I do have good taste for an old guy - DKNY, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Liz Claiborne. However, shirts were another issue altogether. (I think that’s a good thing!)

Most interestingly, was the amount of cosmetics we both had. My son, while still having very youthful looks, did have crèmes with sun protection, as he spent a considerable amount of time outdoors these days, he took particular care in choosing shaving crèmes and lotions. He has sensitive skin, so specialized shaving crèmes are a must. He also has good quality shampoo, conditioner, face scrubs and aftershave/fragrance. I have to say that I have learned a lot from his collection and realize how the new generation of men have bucked the “stigma” of men’s usage of cosmetics…and that’s a good thing!

While we had very similar toiletries and cosmetics, mine focused more on a very different “life stage”; read: “anti aging”. My products focus on skin repair, wrinkle and line management and most importantly eye repair cosmetics which incomprehensible to my son in his selection of products.

One of the most notable differences was that my son was drawn to large, multi-national brands found in high end pharmacies and department stores while I am interested in the new “boutique” lines which focus solely on men’s skin care.

I am sure over the next few months; we will no doubt try each others cosmetics and continue to learn from each other.

One thing that I can definitely predict about this experience is that I will truly miss my son when he leaves, after connecting with him again in such a special way. To Mr.Binxs, I can only say that I am grateful to have had the pleasure to have enjoyed and bonded with such a wonderful guest. He too, will be greatly missed.


Michael j Hollis
President and CEO
Menslooks.com

 

I knew as soon as I woke up: this was going to be one of those days! The night before was pretty rough on my body. Used to be, that all it took was a quick shower, a bit of the hair of the dog, a few aspirins, a lot of water and I was ready to start all over again...

In about 4 hours I would have a lunch date with that elusive female I had been chasing. I have this great opportunity thanks to the evolution of on-line dating, so I am doing everything possible to make myself look like my photos and not the 10 years older that I look this morning! Ok, let’s see; dark circles to go along with those puffy, blood shot eyes – great!

I guess the flights, air-conditioning and alcohol added the finishing touches to my skin to make it look this dry. Desperate times call for desperate moves!!! Years ago I am sure I would have snuck into one of my date’s cosmetic bag for something to save this face—come on, guys, we know we’ve all done it!!! I asked the concierge for the nearest department store and off I sped.

There I was, faced with a sea of cosmetic counters, a million choices and about 20 female staff, not a guy in site. This should prove interesting! “Good morning do you have anything for black circles and puffy eyes…uh …for me?! Then the worst happened; I have a trainee who promptly calls (I swear), half the cosmetic consultants over to assist me. Of course, the store has just opened and here I am the first customer - the one time I could have done without such ‘attention’ to service. Well, I have to say, they were most helpful in explaining all the products they have for the eyes and what each one does. I almost forgot that I was at a women’s counter buying cosmetics, until I notice this gorgeous woman who happens to be standing next to me, also shopping for cosmetics. Now, the macho side kicked in: let’s see, perhaps if I were to say “Could you gift wrap this?” or something, it would not too look so obvious. But no, having killed a brain cell or two last night, before I could speak, our helpful trainee suggests exfoliating my skin before applying any lotion. “Is this the men’s line of cosmetics?”, I ask (trying to be clever). “No, sir, they don’t have a men’s line but this will be very good for your skin and we do have many men who use it”. I knew now, that it was time to lick my wounds, focus on the mission on hand, get the goods and get out of Dodge! With a thank you and paying more for the product than I had on my partying the night before (which had put me in this position), I plodded back to the hotel.

I the privacy of my hotel room, I laid out my new purchases and followed the directions with careful precision. I drank tons of water, put my feet up and just chilled. Later that morning, before leaving for my big ‘date’, I started to read the newspaper and came upon a most enlightening article.

There, in black and white, I find someone describing me as a ‘metro sexual’. What have I done to deserve this? What have I become, overnight? Will it be obvious to her when we meet?! Reading on, I realized that this is a description of guys, like me, who take great interest in their looks, hot trends and fashion. Well, the date went well. “You look just like your photo”, I am sure I heard her say!

We’ve had such a growth in men’s cosmetics in the last 12 months and it is evolving daily. Specialty spas, salons, barbershops, drugstores and department stores have introduced men’s cosmetic lines, hiring experienced professionals to help in the selection process. Top international cosmetic companies, famous for women’s products have recognized the need and the desire by men for products suited specifically to mens’ needs and skin types. For those who prefer to shop online, manufacturers and other sites also offer that option with great expertise.

Times have changed; you can look as good as you feel…

Jim Mayer
Free lance writer Miami


 

MENS VOGUE

If this doesn’t indicate the enormous shift to men’s interest in looking good, nothing will! The first thing we noticed is the prestigious, powerful appearance, similar to their iconic magazine for women. We found the advertisements to be very polished and classy. The magazine is uncluttered, which we found very refreshing and enjoyable to read. We were glad to see several men’s cosmetic lines featured and advertised in the magazine. Most men’s magazines seem focused on jamming in as much news, articles, gossip, females and advertisements in as small a space as possible.

George Clooney is most certainly an interesting and appropriate choice for the cover of the Men’s Vogue launch issue. The target for the magazine is clearly a more sophisticated, mature reader than many men’s magazines (it certainly appealed to this writer!). Articles were cleverly chosen to reflect the upscale image of the magazine. We would like to see, however, more of a focus on articles about health and skin care. It appears to us that their target is the sophisticated male boomer who has a keen interest in health and skin care issues. Very wise, as this is the target with the greatest desire and means for maintaining a youthful and healthy appearance.

Vogue, well done, we think you have set your self apart from the competition.

Editorial Staff.
Toronto

 

 10. To all you amazing and influential women…

To all you amazing and influential women…
How to get your man to take care of his skin….you have the power!


Ah yes, we all know the resistance/fear/stubbornness faced with broaching this subject; man, if I were to suggest to any of my female connections they should do something about their make up or cosmetic choices it would be curtains for me. Fortunately, for us men, most women are far more diligent about taking care of their looks than we males have ever been!

Women, for centuries have enjoyed the pleasure associated with pampering themselves and their skin.

So how do you get your man to indulge himself? Despite all that macho stuff we like to project, we men love to be pampered. Here’s an idea – take a trip to the cosmetics department, or order the men’s cosmetic products you will need for a night of pampering: Perhaps a specially formulated shampoo for his hair type, exfoliating scrub, masque, shaving cream, after-shave lotion, moisturizer, eye cream, emollient body lotion, massage oil, and bath oil. Purchase a new razor, if your man uses those throw away blades. Buy some teeth whitening. Ask for help in making your choices, you will find most department stores and men’s websites are very knowledgeable and helpful. You’ll probably also find the prices to be more reasonable than women’s cosmetics.

Book a special evening with your man and prepare to set the stage. Tell him you are going to pamper him all evening: Light some candles, line up his favorite relaxing tunes, some wine and tell him you are going to give him a very sensual bath. When he sees that French lingerie you will be wearing, he will do exactly what he’s told to do! During the bath you will “maintain your focus” on the mission at hand. Let him shave himself by holding a mirror for him. Show him the men’s products you you’ll be using and then begin the relaxing facial, applying the cleansers, masque, moisturizers and creams.
Remark how great he looks. Then comes that awesome massage with the lotions and oils. (Trust me, he doesn’t need you to be an expert just your touch is enough for us men!)

After you rub any excess oils off in whichever way you deem appropriate, you can now take care of the finishing touches. That sensual fragrance you bought at the counter for him smells even better now when you apply it.

Let him know how sexy and relaxed he looks. Trust me, he will feel good - very good. Any man who would turn down that night doesn’t know what he’s missing! Chances are, he’ll love the results and will most likely continue to use those products afterwards.

If you think your man’s hair needs a bit brightening or intensifying you might suggest that he would be even more irresistible with a little less gray, a little richer hair color or a few brightening highlights in his hair. After so many years of knowing about haircolor, you’ll be able to explain the different ways his color can be enhanced. In the mood he’ll be in after his evening of indulgence, he’ll listen!

Mission accomplished! Best of all, in addition to introducing your man to the benefits of pampering himself a little, as a bonus – You’ve enjoyed a romantic and intimate evening together!

Robert Marshall
Free lance writer
Toronto

 11. Online Image

The phone rang; I think it was around 10.30 pm, I'd just finished updating my profile one more time. Every time I looked at it, I couldn't help thinking something was missing. Only 10 responses this week, hmmm… better make some adjustments.These latest changes to my profile have got to improve my response rate!

Hi, is this Mike?
Yes -(hmmm great voice she has)
Mike, the former astronaut, racing car driver, musician, navy seal and jet pilot?
Ah sure, who is this?
Oh, your profile came up in my searches and I find you so interesting!
Thank you, who is this again?
The girl of your dreams Mike. Love your picture, is that your jet?
Had to sell it this year.
What I like about your profile Mike, is that you seem so caring, very witty, trustworthy, intelligent and nice.
That, I am.
What really turns me on though, is that you are comfortable in jeans or a tuxedo - can have fun living in a tent, or at the Ritz. Your adventurous side is really something - did you really paddle up the Amazon for 8 weeks by yourself?
That's me!
You look so young for 40, what is your secret Mike?
I take good care of myself.
I see you that you like to salsa, so do I! It's nice to find someone who also loves to dance - you must have learned that on some of your covert missions to South America that you mentioned.
That was a while ago, I am afraid.
You know, Mike I really would like to meet you, perhaps for coffee; I'd love to hear all your stories. Mike, honesty is so important to me and I am glad you wrote that it is important for you too.
That's great, I am out of the country on assignment now and will not be back for awhile, I'll let you know when, thanks for calling.

Let's get real here guys. Make it simple, upbeat, and most importantly, honest. You will have to meet eventually, so just be yourself! A few recent photos along with your profile are what is needed. For you guys who don't post a picture, don't be surprised if your success rate is much lower. More and more people are meeting on line; it is the place to meet women. Read a few profiles of others to see the different styles that people use, then make it your own. Your on line personals service usually provides tips, so give them a read. A short profile will not generate as much interest as a more detailed one. Share your interests, your passions and most importantly be real about who you are! Stay open - don't restrict yourself by putting to many demands on the type of person you want. Remember that in the end, you want to attract someone who is going to like you for who you are. Happy hunting...

Menslooks editorial

 12. FOOD AND WINE — Making You Look Good


Imagine yourself…You - the confident and comfortable entertainer both at home and in restaurants. Talking intelligently about food and cooking, demonstrating your keen sense and appreciation of wines helps you to exude the confidence everyone loves to be around.

How impressive would it feel to be able to choose a good wine at a restaurant without hesitation (or intimidation)? Cooking a meal for family, friends or that hot date? Well, we have the perfect resource for you. Food411 offers great shopping, recipe and ingredient tips. And for you guys who can’t boil an egg, or forget your lady was coming over for dinner, Food411 provides you with terrific last minute ideas. Take a look through their site. Knowing your food is powerful and this is one great resource.

When it comes to wine appreciation and knowledge, there is no better resource to help you with your “education” than Wine Spectator. The world’s greatest experts can help you select the perfect wine at the right price for any occasion. Impress your guests as you coolly select the most appropriate wine for the meal. Wine Spectator has endless resources for the beginner (“help me to avoid embarrassment”) or the consummate oenophile.

Improving your knowledge of wine and food you will give you a new confidence and appreciation of the finer things in life. We cannot promise that you will get more women, but sure will impress the ones you are with!!!

Food411.com is the ultimate food resource for everything on the Web related to online food shopping opportunities; gourmet foods, ingredients, recipes, cooking, and dining, food blogs, unique gift ideas, meals delivered--each and every listing has been carefully reviewed and hand-selected. An invaluable resource, whether you're looking for specialty food ingredients, unusual kitchen tools, a memorable food gift, and meal ideas.

Visit their site at www. food411.com.

 

Visit their site at www.winespectator.com.

 

 13. Toro: Canada's Magazine for Men


While men in the United States and England have had upscale magazines such as GQ and Esquire published in their countries for years, Canadian men have never had a magazine to call their own. In April 2003, Toro set out to change that. Combining the intelligence of the best American men's magazines with the wit and irreverence of Britain's "lad" magazines, Toro charged into the Canadian marketplace, garnering an impressive number of accolades for its unique vision and style.

Presenting a compelling range of topics, including sports, entertainment, health, fashion, food, travel, grooming, gear, and, of course, women, Toro quickly established itself as the ultimate destination for the discerning Canadian male.

After just two issues, Toro received both platinum and gold Folio Awards in New York City for its highly original design. Toro also improved upon the four National Magazine Awards it won in 2004 with six awards in June 2005, including gold for investigative journalism and fashion photography, a category the magazine has dominated since its launch. Now in its third year, Toro continues to offer an enriching experience to sophisticated males across the country.

Visit their site at www.toromagazine.ca


 14. Thoughts To Help You Lose Weight


Everyone knows that the benefits to being fit are numerous; now, sure, we'd all love to have that perfect washboard six pack, but you don't need that to be fit to look good. Eating a healthy diet and regular work outs will make you feel so much better. Never underestimate the power of endorphins!

Having trouble losing weight? Peter Liu examines the problems we face when trying to shed unwanted pounds and gives you tips on how to lose weight successfully.

Weight loss seems to be everyone’s favourite and least favourite topic. We are inundated with reports on the obesity epidemic plaguing North America, but the scales aren’t changing. The reason? It takes a lot more than talk to get rid of excess weight. And it’s not easy! We’ve all got a lot on our plates – literally. Our hectic lifestyles aside, there is a lot of unhealthy food out there and portion size is getting out of control.

Good news though – it’s not hopeless. Many people are becoming more health-conscious and want to make a serious effort to eat right and exercise. However, this doesn’t mean that weight loss is easy and many people end up frustrated. So what can you do? Let me give you a few ways to lose weight without losing your mind.

Get Your Mind in Shape

We’ve all heard of the battle of the bulge but that’s nothing compared to the wars you can have with your mind. If your mindset isn’t in the right place, then you might as well stop right now.

You know you have to improve your overall health with the proper foods and exercises, but if you let little problems get you down you’ll never be able to keep the weight off. If you’re looking for progress, remember that it’s a process that takes some time – weight loss doesn’t occur overnight. Cravings for sweets can be killer, and if you find yourself reaching for the Krispy Kremes, you’re just proving to yourself that you are willing to fail.

A positive attitude is the key here; learn to love your body, even the flabby parts.

Be Flexible

To make your body more flexible and fit, you’re going to need a flexible routine as well! Incorporating healthy choices into your lifestyle may require changing your schedule, your habits, and your life.

People have set routines that they adhere to and it’s hard to change that. However, to lose weight properly requires a serious commitment to your goals. That means you’ll have to change your routine and follow the new one just as stringently! Change your eating habits and your daily schedule. Set aside time to make food, buy healthy groceries, and exercise several times a week.

No More Excuses!

Do you use your busy life as an excuse to avoid exercising? You’re late for something and you haven’t eaten yet, so you grab something greasy and fattening to tide you over?

Getting lazy and using excuses will never help you lose weight, because it’s clear that you haven’t made a real commitment. People are always looking to lose weight as fast as possible, but I’m sorry to tell you, there is no magical secret. If there were, we’d all be at our ideal weights, right? Buckle in and get ready for a long process that you will actually benefit from. Don’t use the excuse that you don’t have time. Make the time.

If you’re sitting for most of the day, remember that weight gain occurs when you eat more calories than you use. Try to exercise whenever you have time – just don’t let people catch you doing Tai-Bo in the office! Fit in some time for working out and you’ll be fitting into those skinny jeans in no time.

Be Patient

As I stated above, there is no healthy method for rapid weight loss. Losing weight and keeping it off is a slow and gradual process. Many people expect immediate changes, and when they don’t get them, they give up. It’s best to aim for small