One of the greatest things about Friday is that it doesn't shy away from tackling the big issues. One recurring hot potato is the subject of male grooming.
If we are to take the lead from our fathers I would be at a real disadvantage, because my dad's only concession to this trend was owning a comb. I watched him as a child washing himself at the kitchen sink with soap and a flannel, splashing water over himself like an elephant at a watering hole.
Thankfully times change, and as a very modern man who owns over 22 pairs of shoes, I admit to having a routine. It is quite modest, and the only product I use on a regular basis is a moisturiser to counter the extremities between the outdoor and indoor conditions. However, always being open to the suggestions of my significant other, I recently broke through a real threshold by having a facial. I don't think that I was driven by vanity at the time, or the misplaced belief that it would miraculously take years off the life of my face. I was genuinely curious as to what it was and what it might be like to undergo one and if I would notice any difference to the look and feel of something that I am used to seeing and feeling in its same old way.
My one condition was that my other half did all the talking at the clinic because, quite frankly, I have no clue as to what I should choose or say yes to when prompted. I can't remember exactly what procedure I signed up for but when the deal was struck, I reclined in the seat and surrendered to whatever was about to follow.
With my iPod strapped to my head, I lay there for a journey into the unknown. It started with some sort of crystal scrub which was quite pleasurable and intended to clear away "dead skin". The thought of me wearing dead skin was quite disconcerting so I was happy at the thought of getting rid of it to leave - I guess - a layer of alive skin! Strangely, apart from looking slightly flushed afterwards, I didn't see any real difference.
The next treatment was a mask of some description, which if nothing else, was very nice to experience. It felt like an ice-cold layer of thick molten latex being applied to my face, and it was explained that it would tighten my skin and remove the surface lines. I had explained previously to the therapist that my face is a map of laughter lines caused by all my frivolity over the years. I remember the look she gave me as if to say surely nothing is that funny.
My verdict with all treatments complete is that it is an incredibly enjoyable experience, probably more for the relaxation and the feeling of being pampered, rather than noticeable end results - in my case at least.
I have to ask you just one thing though... please don't share this article with my dad!
Girl-ingly Yours
