Asian woman with a backpack holds her phone at a train station.

Are you one of those people who join the morning rush to get to work or school? Whether it’s a long drive or a crowded MRT ride, commuting can put you in sticky situations. So how does one keep their cool and stay lagkit-free in this heat? Good grooming can help! Here are some tips to help you stay fresh – and keep your cool – while on the go.

Shower in the Morning

Proper personal hygiene is the foundation of good grooming. Starting your day with a can be refreshing and energizing, too. Aside from ridding your body of dirt and germs, t can stimulate blood flow, release anti-stress hormones, and strengthen the immune system. However, remember that a cool shower may not suit everyone. You may opt for a if cold temperatures are not your thing.

Dry Your Hair Before Heading Out

Leaving the house with unwashed hair may not be the way to go if you commute. The combination of oils, dirt, and sweat can make your scalp itchy and your hair oily. But if you are going to shampoo in the morning, dry your hair before leaving the house to prevent dirt from sticking to your wet locks. If you're short on time, wash your hair at night instead or use dry shampoo to absorb excess oil.

Keep Your Locks Out of Your Face

Maintain a neat and polished appearance by keeping your hair in place. Pull your long hair back into a sleek ponytail or bun to keep it away from your face and prevent tangles. Use a hair clip or headband if you have short hair. You can also apply a hair serum to . However, use it sparingly to keep your tresses from looking greasy or weighed down.

Avoid Strong Perfumes

It’s okay to want to smell good, but don’t do it at the expense of your fellow commuters. You wouldn’t want to give anyone a headache with a strong fragrance. Practice good grooming with proper public etiquette by opting for a mild fragrance that won't overpower in enclosed spaces like trains or buses. Apply a small amount of perfume to pulse points like your wrists and neck for a subtle scent that lasts all day. 

You can also use shower products with mild, pleasant scents. Try Dove Go Fresh Sakura Blossom Body Wash. It has sakura and Himalayan sea salt extracts, leaving your skin hydrated and fresh for up to 24 hours. You can also try Dove Go Fresh Cucumber & Green Tea Body Wash, which has the refreshing scent of fresh cucumber and green tea extracts. It’s a light and easy-to-rinse body wash that lets you enjoy soft skin.

Wear Clean and Comfy Clothes

Stay relaxed during your commute by donning clean and comfortable clothes. Opt for a pair of tailored pants or a simple dress, and avoid anything too tight or restrictive, as this can make moving or sitting tricky. Additionally, consider the weather and dress accordingly. Wear lightweight fabrics on hot days and layered clothes on cooler days. 

Don’t Cake On the Funda

Wearing makeup doesn’t have to be part of your good grooming practices, but you can add it if it makes you feel good (and you have the time). You can use it to and create a polished and professional appearance. However, if you’re commuting, it’s best to work with what your momma gave you instead of caking it on.

Apply a lightweight, oil-free foundation and use neutral eyeshadow shades that won’t smudge as you sweat or produce sebum. You can also try using a BB cream with SPF for UV protection and a Save your contouring skills for another time or do it when you arrive at your destination. Don’t forget to set everything with translucent powder, especially on the T-zone. 

Practicing good grooming can help keep you feeling fresh longer and make your commute less stressful. You’ll also be doing your fellow commuters a favor! Follow these tips as is or adjust them to suit your lifestyle to avoid that dreaded lagkit feeling.