Self-care is necessary for everybody; however, men are often left out of mainstream conversations about the importance of self-care and grooming. Carlton Rose is working to change that through content creation.
“I started making content to share my journey and help other guys who might be struggling with their hair care,” Rose said. “It’s been awesome to see so many men embracing their curls because of it.”
Rose’s social media content about hair care and grooming for men has helped him gain nearly 185K followers on his Instagram and TikTok platforms. After learning to care for his hair by trial and error, Rose realized there was a lack of resources for men with curls and decided to bridge the gap.
“I always joke with my community — I watched all the lady’s hair tutorials on YouTube, so you don’t have to,” Rose said.
Image Source: @carlton.rose
His decision to embrace his curls and show curly-haired men that they don’t have to subscribe to traditional grooming standards has helped create a safe space for men to experiment with different hairstyles and grooming practices.
Making self-care a habitual part of life is daunting for anybody when they first start. Here’s a deep dive into why and how men can start their grooming journey from Carlton Rose:
Why is it important for men to practice self-care?
It’s important for men to practice self-care because it helps with both physical and mental health. Self-care isn’t just for women; it’s crucial for everyone. When men take care of themselves, they can handle stress better, feel more focused, and stay healthier overall.
Can you explain why grooming is an important part of self-care for men?
Grooming is an important part of self-care because it’s a way to take care of yourself and feel good. It’s not just about looking good, but also about boosting your confidence. Taking time to groom yourself also gives you a chance to slow down and focus on yourself.
Image Source: @carlton.rose
In your opinion, what does implementing a grooming routine look like for the modern man? What are some core steps men should consider?
A grooming routine should be simple and consistent. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Key steps include cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin and hair. For hair, that means regular washing, conditioning, and using products that suit your hair type. For skin, it’s about finding a good cleanser, moisturizing daily, and using SPF during the day. The main thing is to stick with it—consistency makes the difference.
What does your typical wash day look like? Describe your current hair care regimen.
On wash day, I start with a sulfate-free shampoo to clean my hair without drying it out. Then, I use a deep conditioner and leave it in for about 20-30 minutes to make my curls soft and hydrated. After rinsing, I apply a mousse or hair cream to define my curls and keep them moisturized. I finish with a gel to smooth everything in and eliminate frizz. I like to let my hair air dry, but I’ll use a diffuser on low heat if I’m short on time.
Image Source: @carlton.rose
What are some of your go-to tools and products to use when styling your hair? (Name at least 3)
1. Twist Gimmie It All: This product is amazing. It leaves my hair super conditioned and moisturized, which really helps my curls to pop and look more defined.
2. Mousse & Hair Gel: These help to hold my curls in place while still keeping them soft. They give me that definition and hold. The key is you need to find the right gel without the crunch!
3. Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer: I use this with the diffuser attachment to dry my hair quickly and evenly without causing frizz. It’s perfect for getting my curls to look their best in a short amount of time.
How do you manage product build-up in your curls as an on-the-go creative?
Managing product build-up can be tough, especially when you’re busy. I use a clarifying shampoo once a month to eliminate any build-up. It helps clean my hair without stripping it of natural oils. If I need to reapply products throughout the week, I’ll stick with lighter ones. Sprays and mists to refresh my curls.
What is one hair care tool or product you couldn’t live without? Why?
The one product I can’t live without is Twist Gimme It All. I’m telling you, this stuff is amazing! It can untangle the toughest knots and keep my hair super hydrated. It works great for curly and coily hair textures. It’s my go-to product, and I recommend it to anyone with curls like mine.
Aside from your haircare, how else do you practice self-care as a creator?
Outside of hair and skin, self-care also includes staying active. I make time for exercise, whether that’s going to the gym or just doing some push-ups in my living room. It helps clear my mind and gives me more energy. I try my best to get enough sleep and stay hydrated—those are key to feeling good.
What three tips would you give men trying to start their self-care journey?
1. Start Small. Don’t feel like you have to do everything at once; there’s no need for an overhaul. Start with simple things like drinking more water or setting up a basic skincare & hair care routine.
2. Be Consistent. The most important thing is to be consistent. Even small habits can make a big difference if you stick with them.
3. Know Yourself. Pay attention to what works for you. Everyone’s different, so find what makes you feel your best and go with that.