Top Self-Help Books For Men

News – McKenna Caskey

3 Top Hygiene Practices For Men

As the saying goes…”The way to a girl's heart is by keeping good personal hygiene.” Just kidding. We all know that’s not a real saying, but it really should be. Because trust us when we say personal hygiene and a solid grooming routine is one big green flag to all the girls out there. If you think your routine needs a little updating or you just don’t know where to begin, let us help you out. Here's the basic steps to staying clean and fresh all day long, and keeping the ladies headed your way.    1. Make time in your schedule  It sounds a little obvious, but if you don’t carve out an exact time to perform your hygiene and grooming routine both day and night it probably won’t happen, or at least not consistently. Make self-care a priority. Whether that’s waking up a little earlier before work, or shutting off the video games a little sooner before bed. Good hygiene comes with consistency, and we really hope you're performing it every day. For your grooming routine, it changes from man to man. Some prefer to shave everyday or every other day and so on. So first decide that, then make sure you add that to your schedule as well.    2. More is NOT Better  In the world of grooming, hygiene, and skincare more is not always better, especially if you're crunched for time. If you use the right products, you’ll end up with less steps. Find shortcuts and products that maybe combine two steps. Take the time to explore what works best for you now, and your future self will thank you. And if you need some inspiration on where to start for your skincare routine specifically, might we recommend Insanely Clean? Only two steps, quick, simple, and made for men.    3. Look, feel, and smell handsome  Now in case some guys out there need a little more of specific direction in terms of what steps they should take in their hygiene routine, this list is for you:  Brush Teeth  Grooming Routine (to each their own with this step)  Cleanser  Moisturizer  Deodorant Cologne  This is your starting point, and at no means should you stop here. But before getting into the deep world of men’s hygiene and grooming, we recommend starting with the basics. If you smell your best, and feel your best, you will also look your best. So start with these steps and you'll be on your way to greeting every girl you meet with a giant green flag. 

News – McKenna Caskey

Men's Mental Health: Seasonal Depression

Seasonal Depression is real. So let’s talk about it.  First, what is seasonal depression?  The scientific definition: a type of depression that follows the same seasonal pattern each year.  Basically, depression comes and goes as certain seasons come and go. Most people, not just men, experience seasonal depression during the seasons of less sunlight. Often feelings of sadness, fatigue and isolation are symptoms of this.  Our bodies are wired to make more melatonin when it is darker outside, so it makes complete sense that when there is less sun and our days are shorter that we feel more tired, therefore adding fatigue and possibly sadness.  So now you know what seasonal depression is. How do you get through it?  There's no cure. Just steps to make the hard seasons a little less hard.  1. Try talking about it  Our society is slowly breaking down gender stereotypes, but one that is still heavily prevalent is that men are supposed to be “tough” and not show emotion. This can lead to an even deeper dark hole of depression. So, if you realize your sadness grows as the days get darker, share that with someone. A friend, a family member, maybe even a therapist. Expressing your feelings is the first step in overcoming them.  2. Try taking Vitamin D  You receive Vitamin D from the sun, but if there are only cloudy days coming your way, then maybe supplementing with a vitamin during the winter season is a good idea. Vitamin D is essential for bundling strong bones. Signs of not having enough of this “sunshine” vitamin is fatigue and feelings of sadness. Sound familiar? Same symptoms of having seasonal depression. Now taking a vitamin might not cure everything and make you superhuman, but it can definitely send you in the right direction of feeling better.  3. Light therapy  Sounds fancy, but it's actually pretty simple. Light therapy is just the idea of introducing a device that can mimic natural sunlight. An easy way to incorporate this into your life is simply using a sunrise alarm clock. Each morning it wakes you up with a soft light to start your day off a little brighter. We even did the work and found some options for you!

News – McKenna Caskey

The Best Sneakers For Men

Sneakers are a popular and versatile shoe option for men, and there are many great options on the market today. Here are some of the best sneakers for men currently available and where to purchase them Classics: Nike Air Max 270 Adidas Ultraboost 21 Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Vans Old Skool New Balance 990v5 Collab Sneakers: These are just a few examples of recent sneaker collaborations, and there are many more out there. Keep an eye out for new releases and collaborations from your favorite brands and designers. Nike x Sacai Blazer Low: This collaboration features a unique double design with two sets of laces and two swooshes. Adidas x Pharrell Williams NMD HU: This collaboration includes colorful sneakers with embroidered designs inspired by human diversity. Converse x Tyler, The Creator: This collaboration features a range of vibrant and playful sneakers with graphics and floral prints. Reebok x Cardi B: This collaboration includes sneakers with a platform sole and metallic details. New Balance x Aime Leon Dore: This collaboration features retro-style sneakers with suede and mesh panels and a color-blocked design. Where to shop: GOAT: GOAT is a popular platform for buying and selling authenticated sneakers, with a wide selection of men's styles. Flight Club: Flight Club is a consignment shop that sells authenticated sneakers, with a focus on rare and hard-to-find styles. Stadium Goods: Stadium Goods is a sneaker consignment shop that sells authenticated sneakers, including exclusive collaborations and limited releases. KLEKT: KLEKT is a European-based platform that allows users to buy and sell authenticated sneakers, including men's styles from various brands. Sneaker Con: Sneaker Con is a popular sneaker marketplace that hosts events and also has an online platform for buying and selling authenticated sneakers, including men's styles. StockX: StockX is a popular platform for buying and selling sneakers, including authenticated men's styles. Kixify: Kixify is a marketplace for buying and selling sneakers, including men's styles from various brands. BUMP: BUMP is a peer-to-peer marketplace for buying and selling authenticated sneakers, including men's styles. Sole Supremacy: Sole Supremacy is a sneaker consignment shop that sells authenticated sneakers, including exclusive collaborations and rare men's styles. Grailed: Grailed is a marketplace for buying and selling men's fashion, including sneakers from various brands. It features a curated selection of high-end and designer sneakers.

News – McKenna Caskey

Top 6 Hair Loss Remedies For Men

Hair loss can be a frustrating and concerning issue for men, but there are many remedies available that can help slow down or even reverse hair loss. Here are some of the best remedies for men's hair loss: 1. Finasteride Finasteride is an FDA-approved medication that is used to treat male pattern baldness. It works by blocking the hormone that causes hair loss, and has been shown to be effective in clinical trials. Finasteride is available in pill form and is typically taken once a day. 2. Minoxidil Minoxidil is a topical treatment that is applied directly to the scalp. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, which can help promote hair growth. Minoxidil is available over-the-counter and is typically applied twice a day. 3. Laser Therapy Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth. It works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles and promoting cellular activity. Laser therapy can be done at home with a handheld device or in-office with a specialized device. 4. Hair Transplant Surgery Hair transplant surgery is a surgical procedure that involves taking hair from one area of the scalp and transplanting it to the balding area. This procedure is typically reserved for more advanced cases of hair loss and can be expensive. 5. Scalp Micropigmentation Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that involves tattooing the scalp to mimic the appearance of hair follicles. It is a less invasive and less expensive alternative to hair transplant surgery, and can provide a natural-looking result. 6. Healthy Lifestyle Changes In addition to medical treatments, making healthy lifestyle changes can also help promote hair growth. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, getting regular exercise, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These are just a few of the best remedies for men's hair loss. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, and to be patient as hair regrowth can take several months to become noticeable. With the right treatment plan, many men are able to successfully slow down or even reverse their hair loss.

News – McKenna Caskey

Top Workouts for Men

It’s the beginning of May now, which means summertime is right around the corner. If you want the perfect summer bod, here’s 6 exercises to get you started! So where do you start? Let’s break it down…  To make it simple let's start with the upper body:    Preacher Curls: using a preacher bench allows you to focus more tension/isolation on your bicep which is how you work to get arms like Dwyane “The Rock” Johnson   Incline Bench Press: this can be done on an incline bench, or if you're without a spot, just hop on the Smith Machine. Incline Bench Press will help form a more full looking chest, by building those upper pectoral muscles, preparing you for those future beach days  Here’s some exercises to target the legs:  Hack Squat: a little different from just your average squat, targeting the quads and core more. Just a few sets of these, and you'll have legs for days!  Deadlift: This exercise not only targets your legs, but actually targets your back and core too. In a rush at the gym, grab a barbell, put some plates on there, and you can easily workout your entire body with only one exercise.  *These exercises feel too easy, or just want a little extra push? Try adding a 3 second hold to each exercise, which will build your muscle faster, and bigger.  Now, here’s some exercises to get Ryan Gosling Level Abs:  Plank: A classic. Simple, quick and you can do it anywhere. This workout targets your core and upper body. Challenge yourself with this one and see how long you can do it!  Hanging Leg Raises: Using a pull up bar, just let your body hang, and then raise your legs up in a pike position. This works not only your lower core, but leg muscles too. Complete all these exercises, for 8-12 reps each, for 3 rounds. After this workout, you'll be ready to join the cast of Magic Mike! 

News – McKenna Caskey

Best First Date Ideas

First dates can be nerve-wracking, but choosing the right activity can make all the difference. Here are some of the best first date ideas for men to take girls on: 1. Outdoor Activities Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or a picnic in the park are great options for a first date. Not only do they provide a chance to get some fresh air and exercise, but they also allow for easy conversation and a relaxed atmosphere. 2. Mini Golf Mini golf is a fun and lighthearted activity that can help break the ice and create a playful atmosphere. Plus, it's a great opportunity for a little friendly competition and can bring out a person's sense of humor. 3. Art or Science Museum Going to an art or science museum is a great way to learn something new while enjoying each other's company. It can also provide plenty of opportunities for conversation and discussion, as well as a chance to showcase one's knowledge and interests. 4. Cooking Class A cooking class is a fun and interactive first date idea that can be a great way to bond over a shared love of food. Plus, learning how to cook a new dish together can be a fun and unique experience that you'll both remember. 5. Wine Tasting Wine tastings can be a great way to explore new tastes and learn about different wines. They also provide a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere that can set the stage for a memorable first date. 6. Live Music Event Going to a live music event, such as a concert or a local music festival, is a great way to enjoy some entertainment and see if you share a similar taste in music. It can also provide plenty of opportunities for dancing and getting to know each other better. These are just a few of the best first date ideas for men. Whether you're looking for a fun and lighthearted activity or something more sophisticated and romantic, there's sure to be a great option out there for you. The key is to choose an activity that reflects your personality and interests, and to be open to trying new things with your date.

News – McKenna Caskey

Best Men's Grooming Kits

Men's grooming and shaving have come a long way from the days of simple razors and aftershave. Today, there are numerous brands and products available that cater to men's specific grooming needs. Here, we'll take a look at some of the top men's grooming and shaving brands, as well as their most popular products. Gillette: As one of the oldest and most well-known men's grooming brands, Gillette offers a range of products that cater to different needs. The Fusion5 ProGlide Razor is one of their most popular products, known for its precision and smooth shave. Gillette also offers a range of shaving creams, gels and aftershaves to complement their razors. Harry's: Harry's is a newer player in the men's grooming space, but they've quickly made a name for themselves. Their Truman Razor is a popular choice among men, known for its sleek design and close shave. Harry's also offers a range of shaving creams and gels, as well as skincare products like face washes and moisturizers. The Art of Shaving: This luxury grooming brand offers a range of products that are designed to provide a premium shaving experience. Their Sandalwood Shaving Cream is a customer favorite, known for its rich lather and soothing scent. The brand also offers a range of aftershaves, pre-shave oils, and shaving brushes. Baxter of California: This men's grooming brand has been around since the 1960s and offers a range of products designed to meet the needs of modern men. Their Super Shape Skin Recharge Cream is a popular choice, known for its ability to hydrate and brighten skin. Baxter of California also offers a range of shaving creams, aftershaves and beard care products. Dollar Shave Club: This subscription-based grooming brand offers a range of affordable products that are designed to meet men's grooming needs. Their Executive Razor is a popular choice, known for its precision and smooth shave. Dollar Shave Club also offers a range of shaving creams, aftershaves and skincare products. Bulldog Skincare: This men's grooming brand offers a range of products that are designed to be natural and effective. Their Original Shave Gel is a popular choice, known for its ability to provide a smooth and close shave. Bulldog Skincare also offers a range of skincare products, including face washes and moisturizers. L'Oreal Men Expert: This men's grooming brand offers a range of products that are designed to be effective and affordable. Their Hydra Energetic Eye Roll-On is a popular choice, known for its ability to reduce puffiness and dark circles. L'Oreal Men Expert also offers a range of shaving creams, aftershaves and skincare products. Proraso: This Italian men's grooming brand has been around since 1908 and offers a range of products that are designed to provide a traditional shaving experience. Their Shaving Cream in a Tube is a popular choice, known for its rich lather and refreshing scent.

News – McKenna Caskey

Best Men’s Advice Podcasts

Whether driving on the way to work, working out, on a walk you can make it a time to gain knowledge and learn how to be a better man. Here’s 5 podcasts to help you achieve that: 1. The Art of Manliness Combining both classic and modern ideology of what it means to be a man, and helping you become the man you've always wanted to be 2. Art of Charm Need a little extra help in the dating world? The Art of Charm podcast helps you gain confidence not only in relationships but in all aspects of your life. 3. HBR Ideacast   For those who want to be the next Elon Musk, you gotta start somewhere. We recommend listening to this podcast as that first step. Learn from some of the leading business entrepreneurs to help you get started on your future enterprises. 4. The Men’s Self Help Podcast It's literally in the title, simple as that. Self-help skills specially for men! Deep dive into the issues you don’t always want to talk about, but after you come out better. 5. Mindset Mentor Podcast Last but not least a podcast on how to stay proactive in order to achieve your goals. You have all these great ideas and goals but don’t know where to start? Well, you start here.

News – McKenna Caskey

Benefits of becoming a male social media influencer

When people hear the word social media influencer, most people think of women. From beauty bloggers and fashionistas to fitness gurus and parenting influencers, it seems that female creators have dominated the influencer market on social media. The topic of men in the influencer world seems to be much less covered than women in the industry. But why is this? The simple answer… Many men are not aware of the benefits and opportunities that being an influencer can have on their careers. Becoming a social media influencer can offer numerous benefits for men,, including increased visibility, access to a wider audience and potential financial gains. As a male influencer, you can leverage your social media presence to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field, gain credibility and build a strong personal brand. Connecting with an online community of like minded people brings new opportunities and connections that one can add to their portfolio.  One of the biggest benefits of being a male social media influencer is the opportunity to connect with a diverse and engaged audience. By creating high-quality content that resonates with your followers, you can build a loyal community that supports your work and helps to amplify your message. This can lead to exciting opportunities for collaborations, partnerships and sponsorships with brands looking to tap into your influence and reach.  In addition to these benefits, being a male social media influencer can also provide a platform to raise awareness and advocate for social issues that are important to you. By using your voice and influence to promote positive change, you can make a real difference in the world and inspire others to do the same. Overall, becoming a social media influencer as a male can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience with a multitude of personal and professional benefits.

News – McKenna Caskey

When Should Men Start Using Skincare?

Spot the true statement:  Men can only use skincare when they are having skin issues.  The only men who use skincare are teenagers.   Trick Question! Actually both statements are false.  Skincare is not just for young teen boys who are having acne flare ups. Skincare is meant to be used not just as a problem solver, but as a maintenance to stop those problems from happening in the first place. You should be using skincare on a regular basis so your skin stays healthy, youthful, and protected against breakouts. There is no exact moment when men “should start using skincare products”. However, if you feel your skin is dry or acne ridden, then use that as a sign to start exploring some skincare products. Most people may think teenage males mostly use skincare products because they are in their acne prone phase and constantly worried about their appearance. While it is true young boys are obsessed with how they look, many studies show how the popular age of men using skincare is actually 18-34. So if you're in that age range now, and aren't using skincare, maybe take a second to try some new products out.  Now you know that you should probably be using skincare products, where do you start? Well, first you need to know: men usually have thicker skin than women. Which means you can be more prone to acne and clogged pores. That’s why we recommend products specially formulated for men’s skin.  Here’s our advice:  Two main steps in a solid skin care routine include a cleanser and moisturizer. Luckily, with Insanely Clean you get both! The procuts are simple and easy for anyone to navigate, no matter your skincare knowledge. All you need to know is that you can use the products anytime of day, for any skin type. The Day ‘N’ Nite Face Wash, followed by the Instant Moisturizing Mist, will complete your new skincare routine. It’s that simple!