FACT: Filipino men are becoming more and more vain.
If it werent for the fact that guys could stand while peeing, the mens room would probably have a queue just like the ladies restroom.
There was a time when you can actually count the guys that even wash their hands, but now besides brushing their teeth or restyling their hair, there are dudes who bring along a toiletry kit complete with facial wash (foam, acne control), moisturizers, lotions and even toners and lip balm when they “retouch”
Blame it on the expectations of women who constantly subject us to their “pogi point system, because unless you look like one of those dudes from One Direction or those cover models who keep on stealing my abs– good looks wont take you past the first date.
When it comes to male grooming, times have truly shifted and millennials all over the world are embracing this wonderful change. More of them are realizing the importance of being presentable and more appealing, something that women know all along to look good and feel better. A man can now spend as much time fussing about his face and prepping his appearance as much as it takes a woman to decide what to wear—without shame, without scorn and without stigma.
To help men find the right grooming products easily Watsons held the “Mandated” event exclusively for gents. Hosted by Janeena Chan, the event aims to promote a new section of their stores that is entirely devoted to its growing number of male shoppers.
Radio DJ and events Host Gino Quillamor, says he doesnt mind being called vain.
“I don’t see anything wrong with it. In the same way that you can say women who take care of themselves, we’re all about equality nowadays, so if there are things that women should do so why can’t ment do it also,” Quillamor told reporters at a recent Watsons Men event held at the Podium.
The Morning Rush host says his morning grooming routine may be rushed but he makes time for it after the show. “I wake up at around 5 am and have to be at the station by 6am for our show so everything is rushed. I just brush my teeth, wash my face and take a shower—the taking care of myself comes after the show, where I have a bit more time before my next commitment. Gino adds he isn’t into all that “scientific content” or “organic” labels, instead he sticks with the brands that work for him. “Among my essentials are deodorant spray, sunblock/ sunscreen since I am out a lot especially on weekends.”
Also spotted at the shopping event were actors Victor Basa, AJ Dee and celebrity style bloggers Patrick Sugui, Mikyle Quizon who were able to fill their shopping baskets quickly since all the items they need are now located in one area.
Men usually only buy grooming and hygiene items they deem necessary, including shampoo, deodorant, shaver, shaving cream, aftershave, cologne and hairstyling products. But grooming doesn’t start and end with bathing and shaving.
Watsons understands the changing habits of male grooming too well that’s why it has created a special area in its stores dedicated to men. It encourages customers, especially the professional kind who must look his dashing best, to look for products that will step up their grooming-maintenance regimen.
“The male shopping behavior is such that they don’t go around the store to explore or shop. They directly go to the area where they can get what they want. They want a quick and easy shopping experience,” explains Karen Fabres, Watsons Group Marketing Manager.
For example, if he is using a disposable razor, then he must switch to a system razor. Or if he is using soap to wash his face, he must opt for a facial wash instead. And if he usually uses different brands for his hair and body, he might want to try a 2-in-one product to save on cost and shelf space.
Asia’s leading health and beauty retailer also carries a wide range of items such as Ponds Men, Axe, Old Spice, Vaseline Men, Master, Adidas, Rexona, Nivea, Safeguard and Gillette. There are also available Watsons Label products stamped with the reliable Watsons name, such as twin and triple blades; extra comfort cotton disposables, five-blade razors with cartridges; men shaving gel; men shaving foam; nose pore strips; deep cleansing facial wash, oil control facial wash; and water gloss hair setting lotion.
As part of its 175th anniversary celebration, Watsons is also giving back to its loyal customers by offering discounts of up to 50% on the following grooming essentials: Nivea Men Whitening Acne Oil Control Facial Scrub 50G, Safeguard Men Sports Energy 2 in 1 Hair + Body Wash 400 ML and Gillette Mach 3 with Nano – Thin Blades Razor. The promo runs until June 22.
Grooming has never been more de rigeur. After all, a well-maintained appearance goes exceeding well with any stylish outfit, be it in the boardroom, Snapchat or Instagram.
For updates on the latest men’s products and occasional promos, like Watsons Philippines’ official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/WatsonsPH.