A daily skin care routine does more than improve your appearance—it reduces stress, boosts confidence, creates structure, and promotes mindfulness. Research shows that consistent grooming rituals can lower cortisol levels by 83%, improve self-esteem, and provide a sense of control in chaotic times. Tiege Hanley's uncomplicated systems make it easy for men to build these mental health-boosting habits into everyday life. Can Skin Care Really Improve Your Mental Health? Yes—and the science backs it up. While we typically think of skin care as purely physical, mounting research reveals that consistent grooming routines have profound psychological benefits. According to a 2023 study in the Journal of Behavioral Health, men who maintain regular grooming habits report higher self-esteem and lower daily stress levels. The connection isn't just anecdotal. Taking care of your skin triggers a cascade of positive effects: Reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) by up to 83% Releases dopamine and serotonin (happiness hormones) Creates predictable structure that combats anxiety Builds confidence through visible improvements Provides mindful moments that ground you in the present Think of your skin care routine as a daily mental reset—a few minutes where you're focused entirely on yourself, not your inbox, your deadlines, or the chaos around you. How Does a Skin Care Routine Help Your Mental State? It gives you control when everything else feels chaotic. In a world of constant demands—work pressure, relationship stress, financial worries—your morning and evening skin care routine becomes an anchor. It's something you control completely. 1. Routines Create Stability and Structure Research consistently shows that people with regular daily routines experience better mental health, less moodiness, and greater overall happiness. When life feels unpredictable, having a consistent ritual—like washing your face and applying moisturizer—provides stability. Morning routine benefits: Signals your brain it's time to wake up and prepare for the day Sets a productive, confident tone before facing challenges Creates a sense of accomplishment first thing Evening routine benefits: Helps transition from work mode to relaxation Signals your body it's time to wind down Processes the day's stress while caring for yourself The Tiege Hanley Level 1 Essential Routine is specifically designed to create this structure—simple enough to build the habit, effective enough to see real results. 2. Self-Care Releases "Feel Good" Hormones Every time you engage in self-care—whether it's applying moisturizer, using a face scrub, or just washing your face—your brain releases dopamine and serotonin. These neurochemicals are natural mood stabilizers responsible for feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and well-being. The act itself matters. When you take time to care for yourself, you're sending a powerful message to your brain: I'm worth the effort. This simple mindset shift can compound over days, weeks, and months into genuine improvements in how you feel about yourself. 3. Mindfulness Reduces Anxiety and Stress Skin care is an opportunity for mindfulness—being fully present in the moment. When you focus on the texture of the Tiege Hanley Daily Face Wash, the cool sensation as you rinse, or the way moisturizer glides across your skin, you're practicing meditation without even realizing it. Studies show that mindfulness practices improve mood, focus, and emotional regulation while reducing worry and rumination. Your two-minute morning routine becomes a meditation that centers you before the day begins. 4. Visible Results Build Confidence When your skin looks better, you feel better. It's that simple. Consistent use of quality products leads to clearer skin, reduced redness, improved texture—and these visible improvements translate directly into confidence. The confidence feedback loop: You invest in caring for your skin Your skin improves (smoother, clearer, healthier) You feel more attractive and put-together Your confidence increases You show up differently in the world—at work, in relationships, socially This isn't vanity—it's self-respect. And research shows that men with better self-esteem navigate professional and personal challenges more successfully. 5. Taking Action Creates a Sense of Agency Depression and anxiety often stem from feeling powerless. A skin care routine is the opposite—it's a daily affirmation that you have agency over your life and your well-being. Even small improvements in skin health reinforce the idea that your actions matter, that consistency pays off, and that you're capable of positive change. This sense of control extends beyond skin care into other areas of life. Why Men Need Self-Care Rituals More Than Ever The statistics are sobering. Men face unique mental health challenges, often compounded by societal pressure to "tough it out" rather than prioritize self-care. According to recent research: Men are 3x more likely to die by suicide than women 1 in 8 people globally live with a mental health disorder Anxiety and depression rates spiked dramatically post-2020 Yet many men still view self-care as "soft" or unnecessary. That mindset is outdated and dangerous. Self-Care Isn't Weakness—It's Performance Optimization High-performing guys understand this: taking care of yourself isn't about vanity. It's about showing up as your best self—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether you're crushing it at work, training for a marathon, or being present for your family, you perform better when you feel good. A simple skin care routine is one of the easiest, most accessible forms of self-care available. It requires minimal time (5-10 minutes daily), minimal cost, and delivers maximum compound benefits over time. How Tiege Hanley Makes Mental Health Self-Care Simple No guesswork. No complicated rituals. Just straightforward products that work. That's the Tiege Hanley difference—and it's specifically designed for guys who want results without the hassle. The Level 1 Essential Routine: Your Mental Health Reset The Level 1 Routine includes everything you need to build a stress-reducing, confidence-boosting routine: Morning (3 minutes): Daily Face Wash – Cleanse away oil and impurities, signaling a fresh start AM Morning Moisturizer with SPF 20 – Hydrate and protect, setting yourself up for success Evening (3 minutes): WASH – Remove the day's stress and grime PM Nighttime Moisturizer – Repair and rejuvenate while you sleep 2x Per Week: Exfoliating Scrub – Smooth skin, clear mind This routine isn't just about skin care—it's about creating bookends to your day. Morning routines help you face the day with confidence. Evening routines help you decompress and let go of stress. Why Tiege Hanley Works for Mental Health 1. Eliminates Decision FatigueYou're told exactly what to use, when to use it, and how much. No standing in the aisle overwhelmed by choices. No second-guessing if you're doing it right. 2. Builds Consistency Effortlessly30-day systems arrive at your door automatically. You never run out, never forget, never have an excuse to skip. Consistency is where the mental health benefits compound. 3. Delivers Visible ResultsMost guys notice improvements within 2-4 weeks. When you see your skin getting clearer, smoother, healthier—that's tangible proof that your efforts matter. 4. Fits Real LifeNo 10-step routines. No hour-long rituals. Just essential products that work with your lifestyle, not against it. The Daily Mental Health Benefits of Each Product Daily Face Wash Mental benefit: Starting and ending your day with a clean slate—literally. The physical act of washing away dirt and oil becomes a metaphor for releasing stress and starting fresh. AM Morning Moisturizer with SPF 20 Mental benefit: Protection and preparation. Applying SPF isn't just about preventing sun damage—it's about taking proactive steps to protect yourself, building a mindset of self-preservation and care. PM Nighttime Moisturizer Mental benefit: Restoration and release. This signals to your brain that the day is over, it's time to repair and recharge. The peptides work while you sleep—both your skin and mind get the rest they need. SCRUB Exfoliating Scrub Mental benefit: Renewal and progress. Buffing away dead skin cells is a physical reminder that you're constantly evolving, shedding what no longer serves you, revealing better underneath. Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Care and Mental Health How Long Before I Notice Mental Health Benefits? Immediately and over time. You'll feel the stress-reducing effects of the ritual itself from day one. The confidence boost from visible skin improvements typically shows up within 2-4 weeks. The long-term benefits—reduced anxiety, better emotional regulation, stronger self-esteem—build gradually through consistent practice. What If I'm Dealing with Depression or Anxiety? A skin care routine won't cure clinical mental health conditions, but it can help. For people struggling with depression or anxiety, even small acts of self-care can be grounding. On days when getting out of bed feels impossible, washing your face and applying moisturizer is something you can control—a small victory that matters. If you're struggling, please also seek professional support. Skin care is a complement to therapy and treatment, not a replacement. Is 5-10 Minutes Really Enough? Yes. The mental health benefits come from consistency and intentionality, not duration. Even a simple 5-minute routine done daily has more impact than an hour-long spa treatment once a month. It's the daily ritual, the repeated message to yourself that you matter, that creates lasting change. Can Skin Care Replace Therapy or Medication? No—but it can support your overall mental wellness strategy. Think of skin care as one tool in your mental health toolkit, alongside exercise, therapy, meditation, healthy eating, and social connection. It's accessible, affordable, and effective—but it works best as part of a holistic approach to well-being. Why Is Routine So Important for Mental Health? Routines reduce cognitive load and create predictability. When your morning and evening look the same (in a good way), your brain doesn't have to make dozens of small decisions. This preserves mental energy for things that actually matter and creates a sense of stability that combats anxiety. Building Your Mental Health Skin Care Routine: Start Today You don't need to overhaul your entire life. Start small. Commit to washing your face and moisturizing every morning and night for 30 days. That's it. The 30-Day Challenge Week 1: Build the habit. Focus just on consistency—wash and moisturize morning and night with WASH and AM/PM moisturizers. Week 2: Notice the ritual. Pay attention to how it feels. The temperature of the water. The texture of the products. How your skin feels afterward. This is mindfulness. Week 3: Add the scrub. Exfoliate 2x this week with SCRUB. Notice how this deeper clean feels both physically and mentally refreshing. Week 4: Reflect on changes. How's your stress? Your confidence? Your skin? Take a photo and compare it to day one. By the end of 30 days, this won't feel like a chore—it'll feel essential. You'll understand why it's about so much more than skin. Why Start with Tiege Hanley? Because it's designed for guys who want results without complexity. No overwhelming product lineups. No confusing instructions. Just Uncomplicated Skin Care that works—for your skin and your mental health. The Level 1 Essential Routine gives you everything you need to start building this mental health-boosting habit today. The Bottom Line: Self-Care Is Success Care Taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's strategic. The most successful, high-performing guys understand that showing up for yourself daily creates the foundation for showing up everywhere else. Your skin care routine can be more than just products and steps. It can be: A daily meditation A stress release valve A confidence builder A reminder that you matter All in just 5-10 minutes a day. If you're ready to invest in yourself—not just how you look, but how you feel—start with Tiege Hanley's Level 1 Essential Routine. It's the simplest, most straightforward way to build a habit that benefits both your skin and your mind. Because when you look good and feel good, everything else gets easier. Explore more: Visit the Tiege Hanley blog for additional insights on men's skin care, mental health, and building routines that help you look and feel amazing every day.

In one of our favorite episodes of The Pat McGann Show, Pat sat down with Chicago historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas and two-time Olympic gold medalist Shani Davis for a conversation rooted in legacy, pride, and the city that shaped them. Chicago comedian Tom Bambara also joined the discussion, adding his perspective on community and local impact — along with a few well-timed punchlines. From untold Chicago history to the mindset required to win on the world stage, the episode explores what it means to represent your city — and how identity, discipline, and resilience define long-term success. Who Is Shermann “Dilla” Thomas? Shermann Thomas — widely known as “Dilla” — is a Chicago historian and storyteller dedicated to preserving and sharing the city’s overlooked history. Through social media, tours, and public speaking, Dilla has built a following by spotlighting neighborhoods, cultural movements, and historical moments that shaped Chicago. His work focuses on education, access, and pride in place — reminding people that Chicago’s story runs deeper than headlines. Who Is Shani Davis? Shani Davis is one of the most accomplished speed skaters in Olympic history. A Chicago native, he became the first Black athlete to win an individual gold medal in Winter Olympic history when he captured gold in the 1000m at the 2006 Winter Games. He later repeated the achievement in 2010, cementing his place among the sport’s elite. His career represents discipline, independence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence at the highest level of competition. What They Discussed on the Podcast In this episode, Pat, Dilla, and Shani explore: The importance of understanding Chicago’s true history Growing up in the city and how it shapes identity The mindset required to compete — and win — on a global stage Representation and legacy in sports and culture Discipline, resilience, and long-term focus The conversation moves between history and athletics, connecting the past with performance. Both guests speak to the power of knowing where you come from — and how that foundation influences everything that follows. Chicago Pride and Perspective This episode stands out because it centers Chicago not just as a backdrop, but as a driving force. Dilla highlights the stories that built the city. Shani reflects on carrying Chicago with him to the Olympics. Together, the discussion reinforces a simple idea: understanding your roots strengthens your future. For listeners, it’s both educational and inspiring — a reminder that legacy isn’t accidental. It’s built. Watch or Listen to the Episode 🎥 Watch on YouTube🎧 Listen on Spotify🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts📱 Watch Clips on Instagram Follow the Guests Shermann “Dilla” Thomas: @6figga_dilla Shani Davis: @therealshanidavis Tom Bambara: @tombambara More Episodes of The Pat McGann Show From Parking Lots to Arenas with Maggie Hughes DePalo Mark Giangreco on Chicago Sports TV & the ’85 Bears Chuck Garfien & Calvin Evans on Hawk Harrelson, White Sox, & the New Studio

What Skin Care Ingredients Do Men Actually Need? If you've ever stood in a skin care aisle wondering what half those ingredients even do, you're not alone. Most guys don't have time to decode a chemistry textbook — they just want products that work. The good news? You really only need to focus on three powerhouse ingredients to see a real difference in your skin: Vitamin C, retinol, and SPF. Here's what they do, why they matter, and how to get all three without overhauling your entire morning. Q: What does Vitamin C do for men's skin?A: Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that brightens dull skin, evens out skin tone, and helps defend against environmental damage like pollution and UV exposure. For guys who spend time outdoors or in front of screens, it's one of the most effective tools for keeping skin looking fresh and healthy. Q: Does retinol actually work for men?A: Yes — and it's one of the most clinically proven anti-aging ingredients in skin care. Retinol (a form of Vitamin A) accelerates skin cell turnover, which means it helps your skin shed dead cells faster and reveal smoother, younger-looking skin underneath. Over time, it visibly reduces fine lines, refines texture, and improves overall tone. Q: Why do men need SPF in their daily moisturizer?A: Sun exposure is the number one cause of premature aging — more than lifestyle factors, diet, or genetics. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and break down collagen over time, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots. A daily moisturizer with SPF is one of the simplest, highest-impact investments you can make in your skin. Why These Three Ingredients Work Better Together Think of it like a performance stack for your skin. SPF protects against future damage. Retinol repairs and renews at a cellular level. Vitamin C brightens and guards against the oxidative stress that dulls skin over time. Used together consistently, these three ingredients don't just slow down aging — they actively improve the way your skin looks and feels. The catch? Finding products that contain quality versions of these ingredients — without requiring a 10-step routine — is harder than it sounds. That's exactly the problem Tiege Hanley was built to solve. How Tiege Hanley's Anti-Aging Routine & Retinol Stick Delivers All Three Tiege Hanley's Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for Men (Level 3) is a six-product daily system engineered around ingredients that deliver real, visible results. No guesswork. No overlap. Just a straightforward routine built specifically for men. Here's where those key ingredients show up: SPF — Daily Defense in Every Morning Routine Every Tiege Hanley system starts with AM, a morning moisturizer with SPF 20 recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation. It's lightweight, non-greasy, and formulated with avobenzone and octocrylene — a proven broad-spectrum UV shield that protects against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays. It goes on after WASH, your daily face wash, and takes about 30 seconds. That's sun protection handled — every single morning, without a second thought. Retinol — Skin Renewal While You Sleep Level 3 includes SUPER SERUM, a clinically tested facial firming serum powered by retinol (Vitamin A). Applied twice a day, it works alongside Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 — a peptide that mimics the effect of relaxing fine lines and expression wrinkles. In 12-week clinical testing, SUPER SERUM delivered measurable improvements in fine lines, skin tone, and texture. Vitamin C — Brightness and Environmental Defense Kakadu Plum Extract, one of the richest natural sources of Vitamin C on earth, is a key ingredient in the RETINOL STICK. This Australian superfruit energizes dull-looking skin, improves tone and brightness, and delivers antioxidant protection against the environmental stressors — blue light, pollution, UV exposure — that quietly age your skin every day. The Full Level 3 Routine: Everything You Need, Nothing You Don't The Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine for Men includes six products — WASH, SCRUB, AM, PM, EYES, and SUPER SERUM — each formulated to work better together. Add the RETINOL STICK and you've got a complete skin care arsenal backed by clinical data and built for the guy who's serious about how he looks and feels. Membership means you save an average of 20% on every order, get free shipping, and never have to think about running out. Products ship every 30 days and you can modify, pause, or cancel anytime — no questions asked. The Bottom Line You don't need a 12-step routine. You need the right ingredients, in the right products, used consistently. Vitamin C for brightness. Retinol for renewal. SPF for protection. Tiege Hanley's Level 3 system delivers all three — uncomplicated, affordable, and effective. Read more on the Tiege Hanley Blog for skin care tips, ingredient breakdowns, and routine advice built for real guys.