Shave, Skin, Scent: Rafael Valdez's Three Steps

Rafael Valdez is an acclaimed tattoo artist with client list made up of international superstars, celebrities and notable personalities. Born in Guadalajara Jalisco, Mexico, at nine years old he migrated with his family to the US. Not knowing English, he expressed himself through the art of the tattoo, and today, he is recognized as an inspiration to the Latin community as an immigrant who overcame adversity. Rafael’s talent and work ethic has been celebrated by TMZ, Univision on "Primer Impacto," Hollywood Life TV, TV Azteca and other media throughout the US and Latin America.

Good grooming is a celebration of yourself — your look, your face, even your tattoos. A routine that enhances and elevates you and your sense of self is exactly what every man needs, regardless of who they are or what they do.

Truefitt & Hill's mantra, grooming for greatness, really does say it all.

When I shave, it's a ritual that prepares me for the challenges and wins that my everyday brings. As a starting point, I use Truefitt & Hill’s Almond Shaving Bowl. I love the quality of the shaving cream, as it is gentle on my skin, but I am also a fan of the packaging; the product looks beautiful in my bathroom. After I shave, I trim my moustache and chin with some clippers and finally, once my hair and face looks on point, I apply Truefitt & Hill's Advanced Facial Moisturizer. I find that my skin stays moisturized and hydrated for the entire day without needing to reapply. 

I'm meticulous about my look and my biggest pet peeve is dry skin. Being a tattoo artist, skin truly is my canvas and it is no different with my own skin. For most men with a busy schedule, one of the most important things is to moisturize your skin, both face and body. Having healthy, hydrated skin is noticeable and elevates your personal presentation.

Once my face and body is moisturized, I spray my entire body with cologne. If you look good, you want to smell good too.

That's it. For me at least, everybody is different. I will say one thing — good grooming is attainable, even for minimalists like myself.