Unlike the sculptural wigs and avant-garde hairstyles he is known for, Keith Ong’s own grooming routine is refreshingly uncomplicated. After more than two decades working across fashion editorials, campaigns and backstage beauty, the hairstylist has come to value consistency over complexity. The biggest lesson wasn’t discovering another miracle product. It was realising that more products don’t necessarily lead to better skin.
“I used to think I needed more products and more expensive skincare to get better skin,” he says. “In reality, it only created more problems.”
That mindset runs through every one of his Grooming Awards picks. There are no complicated routines or miracle fixes here. Just products that do their job, habits that are easy to stick with and one reminder you’ll probably roll your eyes at: drink more water.
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Learnt the hard way?
I used to think more products meant better skin. Turns out, I was only irritating it. Simplicity wins.
First things first?
With a good cleanser. I’d start with the Goteskin Gentle Jelly Cleanser. It cleans without stripping the skin. Start simple, then build from there.
Always in rotation?
The Goteskin Hydrating Moisturiser. It’s lightweight, fuss-free and easy to stick with. That’s all I really ask for.
A hill you’ll die on?
Sunscreen. Every single day. I’ve been reaching for The Ordinary UV Filters SPF 45 Serum because I’ll actually wear it. The best SPF is the one you’ll actually use.
So… less is more?
Absolutely. More products don’t mean better skin. I’d rather have a few that work than a shelf full of bottles I barely touch.
Biggest mistake?
Fighting your natural hair. Work with your texture, not against it.
Be honest… what’s the secret sauce?
Water. Seriously. Drink more of it.
One last thing going in your starter pack?
Water. Just drink plenty of water.
Finish this sentence: Good grooming is…
Always worth the effort.
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