Glow Up for Men During Quarantine: The Complete Guide to Looking Your Best at Home

Estimated reading time: 17 min

Key Takeaways

• Simple, effective men's skincare routines can visibly improve your skin at home during quarantine.
• Strategic grooming, the right haircut, and beard style by face shape can sharpen your look without a barber.
• Healthy habits—hydration, sleep, home workouts—are essential for a sustainable glow up for men during quarantine.
• Style upgrades and confidence-building routines make your transformation last beyond quarantine.
• AI tools like Maxx Report offer personalized glow-up plans based on your unique features.

Table of Contents

• Section 1: The Foundation — Men’s Skincare Routine at Home
• Section 2: Grooming Tips for Men — Facial Hair, Eyebrows, and Nails
• Section 3: Hairstyles and Beard Styles by Face Shape
• Section 4: Fitness, Diet, and Hydration for a Real Glow Up
• Section 5: Hygiene and Presentation — Details That Transform
• Section 6: Style Refresh and Confidence — Beyond the Mirror
• Conclusion
• FAQ

Section 1: The Foundation — Men’s Skincare Routine at Home

Why Men’s Skincare Matters in Quarantine

For many men, quarantine is the first time in years they’ve paused to really look at their skin. Yet, a simple men’s skincare routine is the fastest way to look noticeably fresher, younger, and more attractive. Since you’re not outdoors as much, now’s the perfect time to fix issues like dullness, breakouts, or uneven tone. Plus, good skin makes every other part of your glow up—including hair and style—look even better.

Skin is your body's largest organ, and its health reflects overall wellness. During quarantine, you may notice changes—perhaps more oiliness from stress, or dryness from indoor heating. Addressing these early ensures you don’t develop long-term issues. Men’s skin is typically thicker and oilier than women’s, making it prone to clogged pores and blackheads. Adopting a consistent routine not only improves appearance but also builds discipline—a core aspect of self-improvement.

Step-by-Step Quarantine Skincare Routine

• Cleanser: Use a gentle face wash morning and night. Avoid bar soap, which dries skin. Look for cleansers with ingredients like glycerin or ceramides to lock in moisture, especially if your skin feels tight after washing. Avoid harsh scrubs that can cause microtears.
• Moisturizer: Even oily skin needs hydration. Pick a lightweight gel or cream. Hyaluronic acid moisturizers pull water into the skin and are non-greasy, which is ideal for most men. Apply after every wash—especially important in dry indoor environments.
• Sunscreen: UV rays come through windows. Daily SPF 30+ protects and slows aging. Broad-spectrum SPF blocks both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Choose a matte-finish or oil-free formula if you’re prone to shine. Apply even on cloudy days and reapply if you’re near windows for extended periods.
• Exfoliate: Use a mild scrub or chemical exfoliant twice a week to unclog pores and smooth skin. Chemical exfoliants (like glycolic or salicylic acid pads) are less abrasive and can help with acne and dullness. Don’t over-exfoliate: twice a week is plenty for most men.
• Face Masks: A clay or hydrating mask once a week can give quick, visible results—great for pre-video call boosts. Clay masks draw out oil and impurities, while sheet or gel masks add instant hydration and plumpness. Apply after cleansing and before moisturizer.

Fast Skin Fixes for Men

• Reduce Puffiness: Splash face with cold water in the morning or use refrigerated eye gels. You can also gently massage under your eyes with a cold spoon to minimize under-eye bags.
• Spot Treatments: Dab a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid gel on pimples overnight. These ingredients shrink blemishes quickly. For best results, apply after cleansing but before moisturizer. Don’t pick or squeeze, as this causes scarring.
• Hydration: Drink more water and cut back on alcohol and salty foods to reduce facial swelling. Aim for at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) per day. Herbal teas count toward hydration, but alcohol and coffee can dehydrate—limit intake for optimal skin.

With this foundation, you’ll see a clearer, healthier complexion within a week. For advanced, AI-personalized skincare advice, try scanning your face with Maxx Report for a data-driven analysis and action plan.

Don’t underestimate the power of consistency. Set a daily reminder or pair skincare with brushing your teeth. Within 7–14 days, most men see less redness, fewer breakouts, and a brighter complexion. Take a weekly selfie to track progress—you’ll be surprised at the difference.

Section 2: Grooming Tips for Men — Facial Hair, Eyebrows, and Nails

Facial Hair — Sharpening Your Jawline and Features

Facial hair can make or break your look, especially when barbers are closed. The right style can enhance your jawline, balance facial symmetry, and even camouflage skin issues. Start by considering your face shape (more on this in Section 3).

• Stubble: Universally flattering, easy to maintain, and sharpens most jawlines. Use a trimmer with a 1–3mm guard every 2–3 days. Clean up the neckline and cheek lines for a crisp finish. Stubble can make your face appear more angular and mature.
• Short Beard: Can add structure to a round face or cover a weak chin. Trim weekly using a 3–7mm guard, and define the neckline just above the Adam’s apple. Use beard oil to keep hair soft and prevent itchiness.
• Goatee or Van Dyke: Elongates the face for round or square shapes. Use a fine trimmer to shape the edges, and shave the cheeks clean for contrast. This style draws the eye vertically, making the face look slimmer.

Keep edges clean using a trimmer. Learn more about choosing beard style by face shape for a personalized fit.

Pro tip: Invest in a quality beard trimmer and use a beard brush to train hairs to grow in the desired direction. Wash your facial hair with a mild cleanser—not regular shampoo—to avoid dryness and flaking.

Eyebrow Maintenance — Subtle but Powerful

• Trim long brow hairs with small scissors. Brush brows upward and snip any hairs that extend above the natural line.
• Use tweezers to clean up the unibrow and stray hairs under the arch. Pluck in the direction of hair growth to minimize pain and redness. Focus on symmetry, but avoid over-plucking—fuller brows look masculine.
• Brush brows up and out for a tidy, masculine look. Use a clean toothbrush or a brow brush. Non-greasy beard balm can be used to keep hairs in place if needed.

Strong brows frame your face and make you look more awake and youthful—key to how to look more attractive as a man. Consider taking before-and-after shots to see how even minor tweaks enhance your appearance.

Nail and Hand Care

• Trim nails straight across every week. Use a nail file to smooth rough edges and prevent snags.
• Moisturize hands after washing to prevent dryness. Shea butter or glycerin-based hand creams are effective and absorb quickly.
• Clean under nails daily—details matter in close-up video calls. Use a soft nail brush or the edge of a nail file.

For extra polish, a dab of clear matte nail balm makes hands look clean but not shiny. For more grooming tips for men, check out our in-depth guides.

Don’t overlook cuticles—push them back gently after a shower and apply a little oil. Well-groomed hands signal attention to detail, which can be a subtle confidence booster.

Section 3: Hairstyles and Beard Styles by Face Shape

Understanding Your Face Shape

The right haircut and beard style can completely transform your appearance. During quarantine, many men settle for “just trimming it,” but a strategic choice—based on your face shape—can boost attractiveness instantly. Not sure about your shape? Try our Face Shape Quiz for an AI-powered analysis.

To determine your face shape, stand in front of a mirror and note the widest part of your face (forehead, cheeks, or jaw), the length of your face, and the shape of your jawline. The main types are: oval, square, round, heart, and long (rectangular). Each has distinct characteristics that suggest different style strategies.

Hairstyle for Your Face Shape — Men’s Guide

• Oval: Almost any style works. Textured quiffs, fades, or slick backs look especially good. Try a side part or a messy fringe for variety. Avoid styles that fall heavily over the face, which can obscure your balanced proportions.
• Square: Emphasize strong lines with short sides and some volume on top. Crew cuts, high and tight, or undercut styles enhance the square jaw. Slightly tousled or spiked tops add interest without hiding your structure.
• Round: Add height (pompadour, faux hawk) and keep sides short to lengthen the face. Avoid buzz cuts or full fringes, which make the face appear wider. A side part or angular fringe also helps create definition.
• Heart: Side partings and swept-back looks add balance to a wider forehead. Medium-length styles with volume at the chin level or textured crops are ideal. Facial hair can help add weight to the jaw.
• Long: Longer styles or medium layers soften and balance out face proportions. Avoid extra volume on top. A fringe or layered hair at cheek level helps reduce elongation.

Let your hair rest from heat styling and harsh products during quarantine. Use a nourishing conditioner and air dry when possible.

If you’re cutting your own hair, start with small trims using clippers with guards, and blend gradually. Watch online tutorials for your specific style and face shape. Regularly comb and condition to prevent split ends, especially if you’re growing your hair out.

Beard Style by Face Shape

• Oval: Most beard styles suit you—experiment with stubble, full beard, or goatee. Try changing up your look every few weeks to see what you prefer.
• Square: Keep sides trimmed and let the chin area grow fuller to enhance length. A circle beard or a beard with a defined chin strap works well. Avoid overly thick sideburns.
• Round: Choose a beard that’s fuller at the chin and shorter at the sides to add definition. The “anchor” beard or a pointed goatee lengthens the face visually.
• Rectangular/Long: Avoid lengthening the chin—keep beard shorter at the bottom, fuller at the sides. Mutton chops or a full beard with rounded edges can help widen the jaw.

Check your progress with a selfie or an AI looksmaxxing app like Maxx Report to see which styles flatter your jawline and symmetry. For more on facial harmony, see how the Golden Ratio Face analysis works.

Remember to trim your beard according to your growth rate—most men need touch-ups every 3–5 days. Use beard oil or balm for conditioning, and comb daily to avoid tangles, especially if your beard is medium or long.

Section 4: Fitness, Diet, and Hydration for a Real Glow Up

Home Workouts — Build Muscle and Improve Posture

You don’t need a gym to see visible results. Focus on compound bodyweight exercises:

• Push-ups, pull-ups (or rows), squats, lunges, and planks for overall shape. Aim for 3 sets of 8–15 reps per move, adjusting for your fitness level. If you lack equipment, use sturdy household items for resistance (e.g., a backpack with books for added weight).
• 15-20 minutes daily can boost circulation and muscle tone. Consistency is more important than duration—short, regular sessions build habit and prevent injury.
• Try posture drills: wall slides, band pull-aparts, and daily stretching. These counteract hours spent at a desk and help you look taller, leaner, and more confident.

Improved posture makes you look taller, more confident, and better on camera. Try setting a reminder to stretch for five minutes every hour during the workday.

Track your progress with weekly photos or measurements (waist, chest, arms). Visual improvement often comes before big changes on the scale, motivating you to keep going. For added accountability, join a virtual fitness challenge or use an app to log your workouts.

Diet — Skin-Friendly and Fat-Reducing Choices

• Hydrate: Aim for at least 2 liters of water a day for clearer skin and less bloating. Add lemon or cucumber slices for flavor, which can encourage you to drink more.
• Whole Foods: Focus on lean proteins, leafy greens, berries, and healthy fats. Chicken, fish, eggs, nuts, olive oil, and avocados are great staples. These foods support muscle repair and skin health.
• Reduce: Processed foods, sugary snacks, alcohol, and salty foods (they worsen puffiness and breakouts). Try meal prepping simple dishes like grilled chicken with quinoa and steamed vegetables to avoid temptation.

Try to eat at regular intervals to stabilize energy and avoid bingeing. Aim for three balanced meals and one or two healthy snacks per day. This keeps metabolism steady and prevents late-night cravings. For snacks, opt for Greek yogurt, fruit, or a handful of nuts.

Supplements can help if your diet is lacking—consider a multivitamin or omega-3 capsules, but always consult with a healthcare provider first. Remember, no supplement replaces whole foods and hydration.

Quick Appearance Boosts

• Drink green tea or black coffee (in moderation) to reduce water retention. Both contain antioxidants that may also benefit skin.
• Take a brisk daily walk—sunlight and movement brighten your complexion and mood. Even 20 minutes outdoors increases vitamin D, which supports skin and immune health.
• For a full transformation, some men try a 30-day glow up challenge: combine diet, workouts, and grooming for visible change. Take before-and-after photos and measurements to see progress.

Want more actionable tips? Read our breakdown of AI glow up tips that work for men.

Monitor your sleep as well—rest is essential for recovery, muscle building, and clear skin. Try to keep a consistent bedtime and limit screens an hour before sleep to maximize quality.

Section 5: Hygiene and Presentation — Details That Transform

Shower and Body Care

• Shower daily, focusing on underarms, groin, and feet. These areas harbor bacteria that cause odor.
• Use a gentle, unscented body wash to avoid irritation. Fragrance-free products reduce the risk of rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.
• Exfoliate body with a loofah or scrub once a week to prevent ingrown hairs and dull skin. Pay special attention to elbows, knees, and back of arms, where buildup is common.

Apply deodorant after showering, and consider a subtle fragrance or body spray that suits your style.

For extra freshness, switch to a clean towel every 3–4 days and wash workout clothes after each wear. If you sweat heavily, use an antiperspirant at night for maximum effect.

Oral Hygiene — Crucial for a Glow Up

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Spend at least two minutes each time, using small circular motions.
• Floss at least once a day. This removes plaque and food particles that brushing alone misses, preventing gum disease and bad breath.
• Rinse with mouthwash for extra freshness. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are less drying and still kill bacteria effectively.

White, clean teeth instantly boost attractiveness and confidence on video calls or in person. For stubborn stains, use a whitening toothpaste or consider over-the-counter whitening strips, following instructions carefully. Avoid smoking and limit coffee or red wine, which stain enamel.

The Power of Small Details

• Trim nose and ear hairs weekly. Use dedicated trimmers for safety and precision.
• Keep a lint roller handy for clothes. This makes a big difference if you wear dark fabrics or have pets.
• Iron or steam shirts—even for video calls, wrinkles undermine your presentation. Smooth clothes give a sharp, put-together impression, even if you’re only seen from the waist up.

Mastering these basics sets the stage for the next step: upgrading your style and confidence.

Other overlooked details: check for stray eyebrow or beard hairs before calls, and wipe your glasses or screens to avoid smudges that distract on camera. Attention to these details signals self-respect and professionalism.

Section 6: Style Refresh and Confidence — Beyond the Mirror

Wardrobe Reset for Men

• Pick clothes that fit your current body—tailored, not baggy. Even if you’ve gained or lost weight during quarantine, opt for pieces that skim your shape without clinging.
• Stick to classic basics: fitted t-shirts, dark jeans, clean sneakers, and a sharp button-down. These staples can be mixed and matched for most occasions.
• Try color matching—neutrals plus one accent color elevate your look. Navy, black, grey, and olive work well as a base. Use accessories—like a watch strap or socks—for pops of color.
• Add subtle accessories: a watch, simple chain, or a cap adds personality. Don’t overdo it—a single standout piece per outfit is enough to show style without being flashy.

If you’re unsure what suits your coloring, explore AI fashion consultant tools for instant, personalized suggestions.

Sort your wardrobe by frequency of use. Donate or store pieces you haven’t worn in six months. Try a “capsule wardrobe” of 10–15 versatile items for a clutter-free, stylish rotation. Snap outfit selfies to see what looks best on video calls and in photos.

Confidence and Presentation

• Practice good posture: shoulders back, chin up, feet firmly planted. Imagine a string pulling the crown of your head upward to lengthen your spine.
• Smile more—real smiles light up your eyes and make you more photogenic. Practice in the mirror to see how your expression changes your whole face.
• Adopt open body language in video calls and photos. Avoid folding arms or hunching, which can make you seem insecure or closed off.

Confidence is a habit. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes—and it’s a key part of how to look more attractive as a man.

Try recording yourself during practice calls or conversations to see how you come across. Ask for feedback from a trusted friend. Small tweaks—like speaking more slowly or making more eye contact—can have a big impact.

Mental Reset and Routine

• Prioritize sleep: 7-9 hours per night for skin and mood. Sleep in a cool, dark room, and avoid screens before bed to promote deeper rest.
• Set a loose daily routine: wake up, shower, dress, and eat at regular times. Structure helps keep motivation and mood high, even when working from home.
• Schedule self-care: meditation, journaling, or hobbies boost mental glow up. Even 10 minutes of mindfulness or creative activity can reduce stress and improve focus.

Consistency is the secret. Try a 30-day glow up routine—track your progress and adjust as you go. For a digital, AI-powered plan tailored to your face and goals, check out Maxx Report.

Remember, a true glow up is holistic. It combines visible changes—like clearer skin and improved style—with invisible ones: self-discipline, better mental health, and lasting confidence. Celebrate small wins, like sticking to your routine for a week, and use setbacks as learning opportunities rather than reasons to quit.

Conclusion

Quarantine offers a unique opportunity for men to invest in themselves and emerge looking better than ever. The keys to a true glow up for men during quarantine are simple: master a basic skincare routine, groom facial hair and brows by your face shape, keep up with home fitness and healthy eating, refresh your wardrobe, and build confidence with daily habits. AI tools like Maxx Report can help you target exactly what to work on, so your transformation is faster and more effective. Remember, looking your best isn’t just about surface changes—it’s about building habits that last and staying consistent even when no one’s watching. Start your journey today, and you’ll be surprised at the results in just a few weeks.

Finally, document your progress—weekly selfies, journal entries, or fitness logs help keep you accountable and motivated. Share your journey with friends or on social media if you’re comfortable; community support can make a big difference. And when quarantine ends, you’ll not only look better but feel more resilient, focused, and confident in every area of life. Your glow up is an investment in your present and future self.

FAQ

Q: How can a guy glow up at home during quarantine?

A: Start with a basic skincare routine, groom facial hair and eyebrows, upgrade your haircut to suit your face shape, improve your diet and hydration, exercise regularly, and refresh your style with well-fitting clothes. Consistency and small daily habits make the biggest difference.

Q: What are the fastest glow-up tips for men?

A: Cleanse and moisturize your skin daily, trim facial hair for sharper definition, style your hair based on your face shape, get enough sleep, hydrate, and wear clean, fitted clothes. These quick changes have a high visual impact.

Q: How do men get clear skin without going to a barber or salon?

A: Use a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Exfoliate twice a week, avoid touching your face, drink plenty of water, and eat less processed food. At-home treatments and consistency are key.

Q: What should a guy change first for a glow up: hair, skin, or clothes?

A: Skin is the foundation—improving it makes the biggest difference. Next, choose a hairstyle and facial hair style that suits your face shape, then update your wardrobe to fit better. Each layer enhances the others.

Q: How can a man look better in quarantine on a budget?

A: Focus on free or low-cost basics: daily showering, skincare with drugstore products, bodyweight workouts, drinking more water, and wearing clean, well-fitted clothes. Groom facial hair and brows at home.

Q: What is a 30-day glow up routine for men?

A: Follow a consistent routine: daily skincare, home workouts, healthy meals, proper sleep, and regular grooming. Take weekly progress photos and adjust as needed. After 30 days, most men notice visible improvement in skin, fitness, and confidence.