Personal grooming may seem like a matter of individual preference, but how you present yourself can have a significant impact on your life. Whether you are interested in attracting a romantic partner or making a good impression in the workforce, good personal grooming is essential.

Personal grooming is the act of taking care of your body through proper cleanliness and self-care. Personal grooming not only affects the way others see you, but it also affects how you feel about yourself. When you look and feel your best, you are able to present yourself confidently with others.

Your physical appearance is the first impression people have of you. Choosing to ignore common personal grooming habits may indicate to those around you that you are not detail oriented, that you do not take pride in your work because you don't take pride in your appearance, or that you are not someone who wants to be taken seriously. Just as curb appeal is important in marketing a home for sale, your image is what helps "sell" you to potential employers and other groups of people you come in contact with. Poor grooming can indicate to others that you lack self-esteem. In turn, presenting yourself at less-than-your-best contributes to further declines in how you feel about yourself, creating a vicious cycle of poor self-image and discomfort in social settings.

Shower or bathe frequently, either daily or every other day. Shampoo and condition your hair and use deodorant each day after showering to cut down on body odor. For men, shave or trim your facial hair neatly every day or two. Trim nose and ear hair monthly if needed. For women, shave your armpits and leg hair a couple of times a week. Keep your hair trimmed for a healthy appearance and avoid hairstyles or hair colors that are shocking or unprofessional in the workplace such as a mohawk or bright unnatural colors. Keep your hands and fingernails clean and trimmed. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. Have your teeth cleaned professionally once every six months. Limit your use of perfume or cologne so as not to overpower those around you. Do not attempt to use fragrance to cover body odor caused by lack of hygiene.