With Father's Day just behind us, there's no better time to scrub up on some grooming know-how to put your new grooming products to good use. Capitalise on your mirror time with our sure-fire grooming game plan to get you in and out of the bathroom in record time.

Play 1: Switch the soap

Throw away the soap that's left your skin dehydrated for too long and swap it for a facial wash that actually cleans the skin - you'll be making up for the dryness with double doses of moisturiser anyway, so best target the problem at the source. Start and finish the day by cleansing skin to wash away dirt and excess oils. This will reduce the chance of breakouts, especially in your beard. The key to keeping hair follicles from becoming ingrown hairs is washing your face in a circular motion to stimulate the hairs and stop them from getting "stuck in the mud" in your skin.

Play 2: Exfoliation isn't just for girls

Scaly stubble is not a good look. Exfoliation rids the face of embedded dirt and dead skin cells, leaving the skin looking healthy and clean. It's actually more important for men do this than it is for women, as men have thicker skin than women. Exfoliate once a week, unless you have oily skin, and then incorporate it in twice a week. Good exfoliation will reveal a more even skin tone and softer skin to touch, so keep it in the shower for your weekly dose. The ladies will love you for it.

Play 3: Shaving

Whether you're clean shaven or rocking the stubble, be careful about seeking out a cheap shaving gel or cream - the high alcohol content in these types of products can dry out the skin, and lead to ingrown hairs and the formation of spots.
Shave after a shower when the hair on the face is soft for a much easier shave. Apply cream to the face and leave for a moment to help soften the skin. Don't shave against the grain of your hair, and don't shave over the same area more than twice for a closer shave - unless you like walking around with spots of toilet paper on your face. If you suffer from irritation after shaving or get razor bumps, it's time to give your skin a break or switch to a natural product. If you can go two to three days with shaving, do. If you can't, tea tree oil can work well to heal and sooth sensitive areas.

Play 4: Moisturise

This is an important step, especially after shaving and exfoliating. Moisturising products help retain water in the skin, so you can avoid looking like your face is covered in cracked leather. It will also ease irritation after shaving early in the morning, so you can avoid arriving to work with a suspicious rash. Skipping the moisturiser can not only lead to the formation of wrinkles, flaky skin and redness, but it also means missing out on a therapeutic action that can help to de-stress and stimulate the senses. Consider opting for a moisturiser with SPF if you're an outdoorsy type.

The thought of men indulging themselves in a little TLC is no longer a chink on the masculine radar - your sexuality will not be up for question over beers down at the local pub because, your mates? They're doing it too.