(ARA) - We live in a time when it pays to look younger, whether it’s in the workplace or in the dating world. One of the keys to success is good grooming, experts say.

“Looking your best is important in today’s image-conscious world,” says Kendra Richards, men’s grooming expert and celebrity consultant. “An increasing number of men are making grooming a priority because they want to maintain a youthful appearance and a winning edge.”

Indeed, statistics show that men in the United States are spending more than $4 billion a year on grooming products, such as haircolor and facial scrubs, driven by their desire to look and feel their best. The growth in grooming products is being fueled in part by baby boomers entering middle age.

What are the top secrets for grooming success? Richards, who’s worked with many notable male celebrities, offers her top-five head-to-toe grooming tips for men who want to stay ahead of their competition and make a great impression.

1. Knock Out the Gray Hair

The fastest way to take years off of your look is to get rid of gray hair. “It’s less noticeable and more natural to begin coloring your hair when you first begin to go gray,” Richards says. “An easy-to-use product formulated specifically for men, such as Just For Men Haircolor, can be used at home to cover gray hair with natural looking results.”

“Many men also notice that their beard and mustache turns gray first,” Richards says. “The makers of Just For Men Haircolor have a brush-in gel in a no-drip formula that’s perfect for covering facial hair.”

2. Go Short if You’re Balding, and Pay Attention to Unwanted Hair

Balding is another common problem among men. Opting for a comb-over just dates your look. “Get comfortable with your changing look and opt for a modern short haircut,” Richards says.

Unfortunately, when men begin to lose the hair on their heads, they may begin to notice unwanted hair in other places, like their nose, ears or back. Be sure to trim or wax unwanted hair for a clean, contemporary look.

3. Protect and Pamper Your Skin

Sales of men's skin-care items have risen dramatically over the past five years, with an increasing number of products from which to choose.

“The best way to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer is to protect your skin from sun damage by using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen,” Richards says.

A good daily skin care routine includes cleansing, followed by a gentle facial exfoliant scrub, which also enhances shaving ease and comfort. Follow with a moisturizer containing sunscreen for day and at night a moisturizer with AHAs to encourage skin regeneration.

4. Avoid the Hand and Foot Syndrome

Don’t forget to include your hands and feet in your grooming routine. Well-manicured nails and toes contribute to good hygiene and grooming habits. “Make time to clip and file your nails at home,” Richards says.

Foot odor is a common problem among many men, and is relatively easy to treat. “Scrub your feet daily and dry them completely,” Richards says. “Insert a pair of Odor-Eaters Insoles into your shoes, which will absorb wetness and odor.”

5. Don’t Get Down in the Mouth

A good smile is extremely important. Don’t forget good oral care habits, including regular brushing and flossing. Using an antibacterial mouthwash, such as Cepacol will help kill germs to keep breath smelling fresh. Additionally, there are many at-home whitening products that can brighten up your smile quickly and relatively inexpensively.

“Men who practice the art of good grooming turn heads and stand out from the pack,” Richards says. “They look healthier, more vigorous and more successful.”