Ask The Expert: Fashion model shares his insider tips on male grooming

A simple skincare routine works best according to this Malaysian model. Photo: Lee Hinn Zze

Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

This time, Malaysian model Lee Hinn Zze shares his insider tips about male grooming.

Can you share your skincare routine? I want the flawless complexion that models have. – Zed, Kuantan

My routine’s super simple, I just wash my face with a gentle cleanser, moisturise, and use a serum, especially for dark undereye circles.

If my skin feels off – like when I see signs of a breakout about to happen, I’ll throw on a mask before bed. That’s about it.

I believe you don’t have to have a complicated regime to get a good complexion. Keeping it simple works best for me.

What’s a hairstyle that looks good yet is easy to maintain? I’m too lazy to spend an hour each day to style my hair. – Nelson, Melaka

For shoots or shows, clients usually pick the hairstyle that works for their concept.

On regular days though, I prefer to keep it short and clean.

Personally, I always feel that a nice fade on the sides is a must.

It’s easy to maintain and really brings out your facial features. I think it will work well for most guys.

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Models seem to be able to stay acne-free even though their skin gets covered with makeup all the time. What gives? – Wing, JB

Honestly, getting enough rest and drinking loads of water helps a ton.

I also exercise often, it’s good for sweating out toxins.

My biggest tip? Always remove everything on your face at the end of the day.

Should a guy get his eyebrows shaped? My girlfriend says my bushy brows are an embarrassment, but I don’t want to get it plucked in case it looks too feminine. – Raj, Shah Alam

I do get my eyebrows shaped. Shaped brows make your features look cleaner and sharper.

They also make you appear fresh and neat – and no, I don’t think shaping your eyebrows is something feminine, if done right.

Fun fact: my girlfriend actually shapes them for me at home.

I read that what you eat can affect your skin. I’m curious whether models stick to a special diet as they have such good skin. – Hafiz, PJ

I’m lucky that I don’t have to avoid any food. I just make sure to drink lots of water and get vitamins from fruits – especially watermelon and kiwi, which are really helpful for the skin.

I think if you ask any male model, they’ll tell you that having a routine that’s easy is important.

If it feels like a chore, you will eventually abandon it. When it comes to food, it’s more about balance, rather than having to cut stuff out.

How does a person maintain such perfectly white teeth? Is there some secret to how models take care of their smile? Do I have to avoid certain foods or beverages? – Arumugam, Bangsar

I use purple toothpaste (a type of toothpaste, the colour of which is believed to be able to counteract the yellow tinge of teeth). I can’t say that it works for everyone, but it certainly does for me.

Also, don’t just brush, flossing is key. I rinse my mouth every time after eating, plus I avoid acidic food close to bedtime to protect my teeth.

Read more: Ask The Expert: Advice from a top fashion model on how to elevate your look

My wife wants me to use chapsticks. She thinks it’ll make my lips look less dry. I’m not comfortable with this, and I think my mates will make fun of me. Is there any way to moisturise my lips without putting on something that will make it so glossy? – Eric, Subang

I can’t stand chapped lips, so I use petroleum jelly throughout the day.

It keeps them moisturised without looking too shiny.

If that’s still too glossy, my advice is to just use a lip mask before bed.

I think this will be enough to help the skin of your lips stay hydrated, and lessen problems like cracking or flaking.

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