SPIFFY: Fresh Takes on Men's Grooming

Don’t Sweat the Aluminum: The Reassuring Truth About Antiperspirant (and Other Maligned Ingredients)

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:10:47 GMT

Antiperspirant is essential in a sweaty man’s grooming regimen, yet aluminum remains one of the industry’s most demonized ingredients, surrounded by cancer rumors, Alzheimer’s fears, detox claims, and “aluminum-free” marketing.

In this episode, Adam speaks with cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski, a 30-year industry veteran and co-host of The Beauty Brains. Perry explains how aluminum salts reduce sweat, what research actually says about their safety, how claims like “72-hour protection” are tested, and why “free from” language is so effective.

They also unpack clean beauty, ingredient fearmongering, and the truth about benzoyl peroxide, petrolatum, sulfates, and coal tar.

Produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh. With support from Blue Print co-founder and web producer André Jabur.

🌀 GUEST

Perry Romanowski, cosmetic chemist and co-host of The Beauty Brains: https://thebeautybrains.com/

And the guy behind Chemists Corner: https://chemistscorner.com/

Disclaimer: Nothing in this show should be treated as personalized medical advice. Use products only as directed, and speak with a qualified medical professional about individual health or skin concerns.

MORE FROM BLUE PRINT BY ADAM HURLY

Read: The Best Antiperspirants for Men, From a Sweaty Editor
https://blue-print.co/body/best-antiperspirants-for-men-deodorant-sweat/

Watch Adam’s antiperspirant roundup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_rdAWUSleU

🌀 SPONSOR

Thank you to episode sponsor Philips Norelco and the OneBlade Intimate trimmer: https://amzn.to/4pC9X7k

🌀 PRODUCTS OF THE EPISODE

Thank you for using our links, which may earn us commission, including but not limited to Amazon’s Associate Program.

Harry’s Extra-Strength Antiperspirant, Stone: https://amzn.to/4fhth6d
Dove Men+Care Clean Comfort Antiperspirant Spray: https://amzn.to/4wegurf
Carpe sweat-control products: https://amzn.to/4pEn9Zl
Speed Stick, Perry’s personal pick: https://amzn.to/3T744mv

The Lost Art of Losing Your Hair, with the r/bald Subreddit and Esquire's Chris Hatler

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Tue, 26 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Hair loss has never been more treatable. Between finasteride, minoxidil, transplants, red light therapy, and endless “optimization” culture, men now have more ways than ever to fight going bald.

But not every guy wants to spend the rest of his life fighting it.

In this episode of SPIFFY, Adam Hurly talks with Jack (aka GeekBro27), creator and moderator of the hugely popular r/bald subreddit, as well as Esquire deputy editor Chris Hatler, whose recent piece “The Lost Art of Going Bald” explores modern hair-loss anxiety and the pressure men now feel to maintain their hair indefinitely.

The episode gets into the psychology of shaving your head, why “is it time?” posts resonate with so many men, what actually changes after people finally take the leap, and why r/bald has become one of the internet’s most unexpectedly supportive communities. Hatler also shares his own experience with hair-loss treatments, maintenance fatigue, and ultimately deciding to stop chasing retention entirely.

📲 Follow Blue Print

Website + free men’s grooming newsletter: https://grooming.tips
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

👨‍🦲 Guests

r/bald subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/bald/

Chris Hatler’s Esquire article, “The Lost Art of Going Bald”: https://fave.co/4vcLLtR

🪒 Episode Sponsor

Philips Norelco Head Shaver Pro 7000: https://amzn.to/4tUuCDU

🧼 Product of the Episode

Bevel Pre-Shave Oil: https://amzn.to/4upQckS

🎧 Credits

SPIFFY is a production of Blue Print by Adam Hurly. It is produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh with support from André Jabbour.

The Future of Veneers is Bright (And More Affordable Too) — with Dr. Jon Marashi

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:03:33 GMT

Veneers have a reputation problem. For some people, they’re the fastest way to a confident, polished smile. For others, they’re a one-way ticket to overly white, overly perfect “chiclets” that look nothing like real teeth.

But when veneers go well... they're fantastic. They look natural, they stay fixed in place, and can last 2-3 decades.

Let’s make sure you know how to get great veneers, and what the long-term care and cost will look like.

In this episode of SPIFFY, Adam Hurly sits down with LA-based cosmetic dentist Jon Marashi—whose clients include Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Kate Hudson, and more—to explain how veneers are installed, when "no prep" veneers are a viable solution, need vs. want in cosmetic dentistry (and why he sometimes tells patients "no"), as well as the outlook on longterm pricing for these things and why you might not have to pay such a steep bill for great veneers in the future. Marashi even has advice on how to seek out lower costs today without compromising on quality results.

And yeah, Dr. Marashi may have changed Adam's own tune on how he reports about veneers in the future... it will be with a lot more enthusiasm, but no less warning for what can go wrong if you cut corners on cost or attentive care.

📲 Follow Blue Print

👨‍⚕️ Guest

Follow Dr. Jon Marashi: https://www.instagram.com/drjonmarashi

🪥 Episode Sponsor

SURI electric toothbrush: https://fave.co/3OMieaN

🧼 Product of the Episode

Naomi After-Cooking Hand Scrub: https://amzn.to/3OZULmm

🎧 Credits

SPIFFY is a production of Blue Print by Adam Hurly. It is produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh with support from André Jabur.

Aika Flores Interview: Hudson Williams’ Groomer on the Heated Rivalry Press Tour (VIDEO ON YOUTUBE)

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:56:55 GMT

Curious what it’s like being Hudson Williams’ go-to groomer? Adam Hurly sits down with Aika Flores, who’s shaped Hudson’s look across a whirlwind tour—from early editorials and Heated Rivalry press junkets through Oscars weekend.

They cover Aika’s role, how she joined Hudson’s team, and the fast-paced tour—plus why he keeps a tight crew, her favorite looks, and how to get his “heartthrob” hairstyle for any hair type with American Crew picks. (Hey, they sponsored the episode—thanks American Crew!)

If you’re listening to this episode, consider watching the video version on YouTube for more seamless ingestion: https://youtu.be/JieCa1prutA

💘American Crew Products Mentioned (For the “Heartthrob” Style)

(We may earn commission if you use our links. American Crew sponsored this episode.)

🟠 Matte Clay (fine hair, medium hair)
https://amzn.to/4t83pO6

⚪️ Medium Hold Spray Gel (medium hair)
https://amzn.to/4daSVsF

🔵 Fiber (medium hair)
https://amzn.to/4uYVd4L

🟤 Forming Cream (thick/coarse hair)
https://amzn.to/4tcs844

🔴 Cream Pomade (curly)
https://amzn.to/3NQ3Mhg

🟫 Light Hold Texture Lotion (curly)
https://amzn.to/40YEwZk

⚫️ Heavy Hold Pomade (wet look)
https://amzn.to/47oRFhV

Episode edited by André Jabur

🔗 Follow & Subscribe
📸 Aika Flores on IG: https://www.instagram.com/by.aikaflores/

📰 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://grooming.tips

📱 Blue Print on IG: https://www.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@UCkq5VqKmu2KMvuPQzt1yRAw

OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
00:52 Show Start
01:59 About Blue Print by Adam Hurly / SPIFFY
02:49 What does a celeb men’s groomer do?
04:01 How Aika met Hudson
06:34 American Crew — Episode Sponsor
07:40 Why She Travels with Hudson Everywhere
09:45 Coordinating with Hudson’s Stylist Anastasia Walker
12:07 Hudson’s The Cut Skincare Video
14:10 Wonderland Photoshoot + Body Oil Tips
16:21 Hudson’s 3 Best Hair Days
18:30 How to Get Hudson’s Heartthrob Hair (Fine, Medium, Thick, Curly) with American Crew
21:26 Hair Clip Styling Trick
22:48 Hudson’s Fan at the Oscars

VIDEOS REFERENCED:
Vanity Fair Oscars video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bsI0wokBw8

Hudsons' 20-minute skincare video with The Cut:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlOVTkX9hQI

A-List Hunks Need Help, Too: All About Celebrity Grooming, with Kristen Shaw

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:21:40 GMT

Behind every male celebrity on the red carpet is someone most people never see: the celebrity groomer. The person making sure the hair, skin, beard lines, and last-minute touchups are flawless before the cameras start flashing.

In this episode of SPIFFY, grooming journalist Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report, and founder of Blue Print by Adam Hurly) sits down with celebrity men’s groomer Kristen Shaw, the trusted behind-the-scenes pro responsible for prepping A-list clients like David Corenswet, Seth Rogen, Jonathan Bailey, Andrew Scott, Matt Bomer, and more.

Kristen takes us inside the real work of red-carpet grooming: what happens in the hours before an actor steps onto the Oscars carpet, how groomers balance skincare, hair styling, and subtle makeup for high-definition cameras, and why the smallest details—depuffing, beard lines, texture, lighting—can completely change how someone photographs.

They dig into the practical grooming lessons any guy can steal from Hollywood: how to make your haircut look intentional, the products Kristen keeps in her kit at all times, and the simple habits that help men look camera-ready, even if the only camera around is their phone.

🌀 Episode Sponsor

Thank you to episode sponsor Philips Norelco OneBlade Pro 360, a hybrid grooming tool designed to trim, edge, and shave any length of hair. Get it: https://amzn.to/4lHjSGR

🧴 Products Recommended

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream: https://amzn.to/4dfzpes
Vichy Face Serum: https://amzn.to/3NuqOdy
Armani Concealer: https://fave.co/4uoCtuY
Armani Foundation: https://fave.co/4s57Edr
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer: https://fave.co/4s315I1

🏆 Product of the Episode

St. Meto Mother Clay Hair & Scalp Treatment: https://fave.co/3NuqLOU

🌀 Guest

Kristen Shaw, Celebrity Men’s Groomer
https://www.instagram.com/shawnesssss/

More From Blue Print by Adam Hurly

Articles + Newsletter: https://www.grooming.tips
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming
IG: https://www.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

Spiffy IG: https://www.instagram.com/spiffypod
Adam IG: https://www.instagram.com/adamhurly

Produced by Hady Mawajdeh

With support from André Jabur

Fragrance & The Machine: How Synthetics Shape the Future of Scent - ft Givaudan's Christina Christie

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:15:00 GMT

The word “synthetic” doesn’t always have the best reputation. By definition, it even means "fake or unnatural" or somehow inferior. And marketing would have you believe that "pure naturals" are always superior in cosmetics and fragrance.

But in perfumery, synthetics are essential. They make modern fragrance safer, more sustainable, more stable, and far more creative than it could ever be with naturals alone.

In this episode of SPIFFY, Adam Hurly sits down with Christina Christie, Senior Perfumer at Givaudan, to unpack what synthetics actually mean inside modern perfumery and why so many of the scents we love simply wouldn’t exist without them.

Christina pulls back the curtain on how fragrances are really built, from briefs and brand storytelling to the surprising technical constraints most people never consider, like color stability, longevity, and sustainability.

The conversation moves past the natural-versus-synthetic debate and into the reality of the craft: why lab-made molecules protect natural resources, how they enhance projection and structure, and why “synthetic” doesn’t automatically mean cheaper or less sophisticated.

They also explore the future. Adam and Christina talk about scent-capture technology that can recreate living environments without harming them, AI tools that speed up formula development, and the one thing machines can never replicate.

GUEST: Christina Christie, Senior Perfumer, Fine Fragrances, at Givaudan in NYC

Givaudan: https://www.givaudan.com/
More about ScentTrek: https://fave.co/40oWm7l

More about Carto: https://fave.co/4tW35n6

🧴PRODUCT LINKS

Les Bains Guerbois 1979 New Wave EDP: https://fave.co/4rB5KB1
Blind Barber Glasshouse EDP: https://fave.co/4rAJzLg
Arquiste Nocturnality: https://fave.co/4s3VrFh
Toskavat fragrances: https://fave.co/46p58pr

We may earn commission if you use our links. Thank you.

🌀MORE FROM BLUE PRINT BY ADAM HURLY
Articles + Free Newsletter: https://www.grooming.tips
Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

🌀SPONSOR

Thank you to episode sponsor LUXSB - Luxury Scent Box.

Visit Luxsb.com to start discovering new scents, whether you need a new signature scent or want to build out a wardrobe. These 9ml vials are the largest samples available from any fragrance discovery platform. Starting at $16.95 per month.

Disclaimer: Not available everywhere.Episode sponsors do not have influence over episode content or affiliation with episode guests.

Produced by Hady Mawajdeh, with support from André Jabur.

The Slow Fade: What to Do About Men's Hair Thinning (And What You Can't Undo About It)

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:25:14 GMT

Hair loss is one of those slow-motion problems that’s easy to ignore… until a photo from above makes it impossible to unsee. So what’s actually happening when your hair starts thinning? And what should you do first if you want to keep it as dense as possible for as long as possible?

In this foundational episode of SPIFFY, grooming journalist Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report, Esquire... and founder of Blue Print by Adam Hurly) steps out of the host chair and into the expert seat, while producer Hady Mawajdeh takes over the mic. Hady asks the questions most guys are already Googling: the difference between recession and crown thinning, why “starting later” can change what you’re able to recover, and how to build a realistic, sustainable routine for hair retention.

Adam breaks down the two big medical heavy hitters, the dreaded shedding phase, why consistency matters more than perfection, and what to consider if you want to add higher-cost “boosters” in clinic or at home. They also talk supplements, essential oils, why “hair loss shampoo” is mostly marketing, and what styling and haircare products can do to make your hair look fuller today, even if they’re not growing new hair.

Disclaimer: Nothing in this show is medical advice. Please see a doctor for any questions you may have regarding your specific needs and concerns.

We may earn commission if you use our links. Thank you.

🧴PRODUCT LINKS

Dr. Groot Hair Thickening Shampoo/Conditioner): https://amzn.to/4t9Dma6
Davines VOLU Shampoo: https://amzn.to/4kcM7vZ
Davines Replumping Shampoo: https://amzn.to/4brQu4d
Hims Thickening Shampoo: https://fave.co/3MjN2OP (Hims) // https://amzn.to/4a7uKIi (Amazon)
Nutrafol Men: https://amzn.to/45IohT7 (Amazon) // https://fave.co/3Qu1G4m (Nutrafol)

The Toupee Queen on the Stigma and Success of Hair Systems

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 13:15:00 GMT

We’ve laughed at toupees for decades… but the joke is getting stale. Modern toupees are shockingly real, increasingly popular, and helping millions of men take control of their confidence and appearance. So why does stigma still linger? And what’s it actually like to wear one?

In this episode, grooming journalist Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report, founder of Blue Print by Adam Hurly) sits down with viral hair-replacement artist Emily Cheney (better known as The Toupee Queen) to unpack everything guys need to know about hair systems: How they’re made, how much they cost, how they feel, what the maintenance looks like, and how to find an artist who will match your hair type, your vision, and your budget. Emily also explains why the first week is emotionally brutal for many guys, why more men should embrace transparency about cosmetic choices, and how a toupee can be life-changing.

🌀GUEST: Toupee Queen Emily Cheney
Site + Artist locator: https://toupeequeen.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetoupeequeen/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@legohugs
YouTube: https://fave.co/49rike1
Toupees by Argyle: https://www.toupeesbyargyle.com/

Disclaimer: Nothing in this show is medical advice. Please see a doctor for any questions you may have regarding your specific needs and concerns.

MORE FROM BLUE PRINT BY ADAM HURLY

Articles + Free Newsletter: https://www.grooming.tips
Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

Spiffy IG: https://www.instagram.com/spiffypod
Adam IG: https://www.instagram.com/adamhurly

🌀SPONSOR

Thank you to episode sponsor HIMS.
Visit https://www.hims.com/blueprint to access personalized care for hair loss, sexual health, mental health, and weight loss.

Disclaimer: Not available everywhere. Prescription products require provider consultation. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions.

🌀PRODUCT MENTIONS

If you use our links, we may receive a commission. Thank you!

Dr. Groot Hair Thickening Shampoo: https://amzn.to/4bpnkCB
Conditioner: https://amzn.to/49Jiizv
Duo: https://amzn.to/49aeZBm

–

SPIFFY is produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh, with support from Blue Print’s co-founder and web producer, André Jabur.

Why Isn't There a Sephora for Men? (And What Would One Even Look Like?)

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:45:00 GMT

The numbers don't lie: Men are consuming beauty/grooming products more than ever... and some reports have them spending more money on self care products per month than women. So why isn't there a dedicated retail space for this customer, considering the grooming industry will pass $100 billion by 2034?

In this episode, Adam and journalist Brennan Kilbane discuss the lack of a "Sephora for men", the reason behind it, and they consider what an optimal grooming retail experience should entail.

🌀GUEST: Brennan Kilbane, News and Features Editor at The Business of Beauty (for The Business of Fashion):

https://www.instagram.com/brennankilbane/

Medical Disclaimer: Nothing in this show should be used as personalized medical device. Please see a doctor for any questions you may have regarding your specific needs and concerns.

–

Do You Need Deodorant on Your Junk? A Deep Dive (and Value Judgment) on Whole Body Deos

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Do you really need a deodorant for your entire body, much less for your junk? In this episode, Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report) is joined by fellow men’s grooming journalist Garrett Munce (Esquire, Men’s Health) to discuss the sudden proliferation of WHOLE BODY DEODORANTS.

Together they do a deep-dive on the category and a value judgement: Who is this product for? How do they work? And are they actually necessary, or just plain marketing?

Plus, they do a quick-round assessment on other fringe self-care categories like LED masks, eye creams, and hole serums. (yeah…)

🌀GUEST: Garrett Munce, men’s grooming editor

https://www.instagram.com/garrettmunce/

Medical Disclaimer: Nothing in this show should be used as personalized medical device. Please see a doctor for any questions you may have regarding your specific needs and concerns.

A Little Off the Top (and the Jowls): Why Facelifts Look So Good Now

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:15:00 GMT

It’s not all CGI and makeup: There’s a reason many A-listers are looking way more refreshed these days, from Brad Pitt to Lindsay Lohan. It’s the face lift, which is better than ever. (And, if you read most articles,you’ll know it is more expensive than ever too… unless you know a few research + smart negotiating tactics.) Also… what is the difference between a men’s facelift and a women’s?

In this episode, grooming journalist Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report, founder of Blue Print by Adam Hurly) is joined by NYC facial plastic surgeon Dr. Sam Rizk, aesthetics industry journalist Tatiana Boncompagni (WSJ, NYT, Goop) and esteemed NYC dentist Dr. Larry Rosenthal (who got a facelift) to dive into the different types of facelifts, how they are performed for men, how to find a great surgeon at a lower price, and what to expect for the recovery and results.

🌀GUESTS

Dr. Sam Rizk: https://www.instagram.com/drsamrizk/

Dr. Larry Rosenthal: https://www.instagram.com/rosenthal_larry/

Journalist Tatiana Boncompagni: https://www.instagram.com/tatiboncompagni/

Medical Disclaimer: Nothing in this show should be used as personalized medical device. Please see a doctor for any questions you may have regarding your specific needs and concerns.

–

Link Disclaimer: If you use our links, we may receive a commission. This helps support Blue Print and Spiffy. Thank you!

🌀SPONSOR: HIMS

Visit https://www.hims.com/blueprint to access to personalized care for weight loss, hair loss, sexual health and mental health.

Disclaimer: Not available everywhere. Prescription products require provider consultation. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions.

–

🌀PRODUCTS MENTIONED

~BLUE RIBBON WINNERS: https://fave.co/42oKOl8

~CARDON CLAY CLEANSER: https://amzn.to/4eo5TjG

~HANZ DE FUKO QUICKSTAND HAIR STYLER

https://amzn.to/3CxxmSH

–

SPIFFY is a production of the grooming platform Blue Print by Adam Hurly, which you can read on the web at https://www.blue-print.co where you can also sign up for the free men’s grooming newsletter).

YouTube: https://wwww.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming

Instagram: https://wwww.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming

TikTok: https://wwww.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

Adam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamhurly

SPIFFY is produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh, with support from Blue Print’s own co-founder and web producer, André Jabur.

Welcome to SPIFFY, a Men's Grooming Podcast

Blue Print by Adam Hurly — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT

From Blue Print by Adam Hurly: SPIFFY is your source for the freshest takes on men’s grooming. Hosted by longtime men’s grooming editor Adam Hurly (GQ, Robb Report, Men’s Journal—and founder of Blue Print), SPIFFY dives into any and all aspects of self-care, head to toe, from hair loss to foot creams.

In each episode, Adam is joined by experts in the field, from doctors to journalists to barbers to chemists. He’ll also highlight his favorite products and brands that many listeners will also love. (After all, Adam’s one of the guys testing hundreds of new products a month—but he has lots of all-time favorites he keeps in rotation, too.)

SPIFFY is a production of the grooming platform Blue Print by Adam Hurly, which you can read on the web at https://www.blue-print.co (where you can also sign up for the free men’s grooming newsletter). You can find Blue Print by Adam Hurly on YouTube (where we post lots of videos), as well as social media; our handle is @blueprintgrooming on those channels.

YouTube: https://wwww.youtube.com/@blueprintgrooming

Instagram: https://wwww.instagram.com/blueprintgrooming

TikTok: https://wwww.tiktok.com/@blueprintgrooming

Newsletter: https://www.blue-print.co/newsletter

We also post regular SPIFFY content to @spiffypod on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/spiffypod

Adam’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamhurly

SPIFFY is produced and edited by Hady Mawajdeh, with support from Blue Print’s own co-founder and web producer, André Jabur.

Contact SPIFFY via Blue Print by Adam Hurly: https://blue-print.co/contact/