Ever noticed how a guy’s appearance seems to completely change once he starts dating? One day, he’s carefree, rocking an untamed beard and a messy hairstyle, and the next, he’s clean-shaven, well-groomed, and looking way too polished.
Why does this transformation happen? Well, the answer is simple—when single, most guys don’t care much about their looks, but when they enter a relationship, suddenly, self-care becomes a priority. Let’s dive into this hilarious shift and break down the ways boys change when they go from single life to dating mode.
1. The Single Life: Carefree and Rugged
Before a guy enters a relationship, personal grooming is often at the bottom of his priority list. When he’s single, there’s no pressure to impress anyone, so he lets his natural state take over.
What Happens When a Guy is Single?
- The Beard Takes Over – Many guys skip shaving for weeks, growing anything from a light stubble to a full-blown caveman beard.
- Messy Hair, Don’t Care – Haircuts? Those are optional. A single guy might go months without trimming his hair, leading to that “I just woke up” look becoming his everyday style.
- Basic Fashion Choices – A single guy’s wardrobe consists of wrinkled t-shirts, faded jeans, and that one hoodie he’s had since high school.
- Skincare? What’s That? – Forget fancy grooming routines. The most skincare a single guy does is splashing water on his face in the morning.
- Minimal Effort in Smelling Good – Deodorant? Sometimes. Cologne? Only for special occasions (which rarely happen).
In short, single guys live life on easy mode, with no pressure to constantly look their best.
2. The Dating Phase: Grooming Overload Begins
Once a guy starts dating, everything changes overnight. Suddenly, self-care becomes a priority, and he transforms into a well-groomed gentleman.
How a Guy Changes When He Starts Dating
- The Beard Disappears – The first thing to go? The rugged, wild beard. He’ll either go for a clean-shaven look or neatly trimmed stubble to impress his girlfriend.
- Haircuts Become a Monthly Ritual – Gone are the days of letting hair grow uncontrollably. Now, he visits the barber regularly to keep his hairstyle fresh.
- Wardrobe Upgrade – His old, baggy t-shirts are replaced with well-fitted shirts, stylish jackets, and trendy sneakers. He suddenly knows what “fashion sense” means.
- Skincare Becomes a Thing – Now, he owns face wash, moisturizer, and maybe even exfoliating scrubs—all because his girlfriend recommended them.
- Cologne and Grooming Essentials – He starts investing in good cologne, deodorants, and even fancy beard oils to keep things fresh.
3. The Psychological Shift – Why Do Boys Change When They Start Dating?
So, why do guys suddenly care so much about their appearance when they start dating? It’s not just about impressing their partner—it’s also about self-confidence and making a good impression.
Why This Transformation Happens:
- First Impressions Matter – In the early stages of dating, guys want to look their best to keep their partner interested and attracted.
- A Girlfriend’s Influence – Let’s be honest—most guys won’t upgrade their grooming routine unless someone encourages them. Girlfriends often introduce better skincare, stylish clothing, and overall self-care tips.
- Boost in Confidence – Looking better makes a guy feel better. When he sees the positive reactions from his partner, he’s more motivated to keep up the effort.
- Fear of Being “That Guy” – Nobody wants to be the scruffy, unkempt boyfriend who looks like he just rolled out of bed. Guys realize that maintaining good grooming habits keeps the relationship fresh and attractive.
4. The Funny Reality – Before vs. After Dating
Let’s compare a guy’s lifestyle before and after he enters a relationship.
| Category | Single Life | Dating Life |
|---|---|---|
| Beard & Hair | Wild, unkempt | Trimmed, stylish |
| Fashion Sense | Basic and lazy | Thoughtful and trendy |
| Skincare Routine | Nonexistent | Uses at least 3 products |
| Cologne & Fragrance | Rarely used | Always smells fresh |
| Gym Routine | “I’ll start next month” | Works out regularly |
| Selfies & Photos | Avoids them | Takes cute couple pictures |
5. When the Relationship Matures – Will He Go Back to Old Habits?
At the beginning of a relationship, effort levels are at their peak. But what happens after months (or years) of dating?
Three Possible Scenarios:
- He Keeps Up the Grooming Routine – Some guys embrace their new self-care habits and continue maintaining their well-groomed look.
- He Relaxes but Stays Presentable – After a while, he might loosen up but still put in effort for special occasions.
- Back to Single Mode – Once he’s comfortable, he stops trying altogether—and the beard, messy hair, and lazy outfits return.
Most long-term relationships find a balance, where a guy maintains some level of effort without going overboard.
6. The Takeaway – Effort Is Key, But Comfort Matters Too
There’s nothing wrong with guys taking a relaxed approach when they’re single. And there’s nothing wrong with stepping up their grooming game when dating. But the key is balance—it’s important to look good and feel good, whether single or in a relationship.
At the end of the day, whether a guy is single or taken, confidence and personality matter most. But let’s be honest—keeping a well-groomed appearance never hurts!
Bride’s Mom Sees Groom Entering Bathroom with Bridesmaid in the Middle of Wedding – Story of the Day
Iris was so delighted. Her daughter Eliza was all set to get married to the love of her life, Daniel. So Iris shuffled toward her future son-in-law to give him her late husband’s diamond cufflinks.
But Daniel was walking too fast, and Iris had to race her achy knees. She watched him approach Melissa, one of the bridesmaids, and whisper something to her.
Then, they both walked away from the venue toward the back of the restaurant. Curious, Iris tiptoed behind them, only to see them slipping into a bathroom together…
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Iris slightly opened the door, and her heart sank when she peered inside.
“I can’t wait anymore, babe,” Daniel tugged at Mellissa’s waist, pulling her closer.
“Not now, darling,” Melissa crooned. “If someone finds out, our plans will be ruined. Patience, babe…you just need to stay married for a little. Think of the big payday we’ll get when you divorce your boring wife. Millions of dollars worth…but now control yourself!”
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Iris leaned over and glimpsed at Daniel and Melissa on the bathroom mirror. They were locked in each others’ arms, kissing passionately.
“Not now…” Melissa muttered. “We have to get back.”
“Not until you promise to meet me at my house later,” Daniel said. “We carry on like we always have…after Eliza’s gone to work!”
Melissa giggled. Unable to see or take it anymore, Iris hurried away to warn her daughter.
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Iris hurried to the dining room, but Eliza was not there. Suddenly, the MC called for everyone’s attention.
“Before we proceed to the wedding hall, the bride has a special gift for the groom,” he announced.
Eliza appeared on the stage and took the mic from the MC.
“…I’ve waited for a long time to find a real love…and I want to dedicate this to him!”
As the band behind Eliza started playing the chords, she sang a melodious love song. A hush fell over the room as Eliza finished singing.
The guests applauded, and Daniel rushed onto the stage and hugged her. Iris knew it would crush her daughter’s heart when she learned the truth about Daniel’s scheming.
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The MC interrupted the bustling wedding scene. “And now… love birds, your first dance!”
Iris weaved through the crowd and approached her daughter. “Eliza, I have to tell you something…it’s about Daniel.”
“Is everything okay, Mom?”
“Sweetie, he is…Can we talk privately?”
“Daniel’s waiting for me. We’ll talk after the first dance, okay?”
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Melissa sidled around Iris and approached the bride. “Daniel’s waiting for you in the dance hall.”
Eliza was so gorgeous in her wedding dress as she followed Melissa to the door. Iris was shattered, and she did not have the courage to break her daughter’s heart on her big day.
So she watched in agony as the wedding proceeded. There was nothing she could do to bring Daniel and Melissa’s affair to light. There was only one way to expose him: Iris had to ensure Eliza caught him red-handed.
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Eliza and Daniel drove Iris to the airport the following Monday to catch an early flight back home. Iris was disgusted to watch Daniel acting so lovey-dovey with Eliza.
Iris hugged Eliza goodbye before heading to the boarding lounge. Around 15 minutes later, she called a cab and returned to Eliza’s house.
Iris knew Melissa and Daniel would meet after Eliza went to work, and she decided to catch them.
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When Iris arrived at Eliza’s house, she saw Melissa’s car parked in the driveway. She quickly called Eliza.
“Sweetie, my flight was canceled,” Iris told her daughter. “I hailed a taxi to your place…I’m feeling dizzy…can you meet me there?”
“Oh, God, Mom! I’m busy…but don’t worry. I’ll call Daniel and ask him, alright?”
“No, don’t call him. I want you to come here…please, it’s important.”
Eliza sighed. “Fine…I’m coming.”
Iris hung up and crept up to the window.
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She peered through the glass pane and saw nothing strange at first. Then, the door swung open as Daniel and Melissa entered the room, kissing each other.
He set her down, and the pair started making out on the couch.
Iris glanced at the street, but there was still no sign of Eliza. She peeked through the window and quickly looked away in disgust, seeing how things inside had heated up.
Iris stood by the curb, praying for her daughter to be there soon. Five minutes later, Eliza pulled up.
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“Mom, are you okay?” Eliza approached Iris.
“No, I’m not. Your husband and that Melissa. They’re in there…fooling around.”
“WHAT?” Eliza was shocked.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you earlier. I overheard them on your wedding day…”
“You overheard what?”
“They are having an affair…and have planned to swindle you and take your money when Daniel leaves you,” Iris replied as Eliza froze.
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“Daniel and Melissa?” Eliza’s breath shuddered. “He’s always been nice to me…how did I not have a clue about this affair?”
“They’re in there right now…” Iris pointed to the door. “Why don’t you go see with your own eyes?”
Eliza nodded curtly and wiped her tears. She angrily marched to the front door, and Iris was right behind her.
They tiptoed to the living room. The sound of Daniel and Melissa giggling behind the couch echoed in the hallway.
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“What the hell’s going on here?” she yelled.
Iris rushed in but was caught off-guard by the sight before her shocked eyes. It didn’t make any sense.
Just mere minutes ago, when she looked through the window, Daniel and Melissa were engrossed in their intimate moment. But now, they were casually seated on the sofa like nothing had happened.
“Eliza? What do you mean?” Daniel replied. “Melissa and I were discussing work…Didn’t I tell you I’d be working from home this week?”
“You LIAR!” Iris pointed at Daniel. “I saw the both of you doing ‘things’ on that sofa…you must’ve seen us coming and gotten dressed.”
“Gotten dressed?” Melissa frowned. “Jesus…you think Daniel and I are having…an affair?”
“Just shut up,” Eliza snapped. “My mother saw you two in the bathroom on our wedding day…and now, in our house. You were so insistent on sharing our assets and money when we got married. And now I know why…Daniel, you married me for my money.’
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“That’s not true!” Daniel denied the allegation. “Being married means sharing everything. What’s mine is yours, Eliza. I’m sorry your mother thinks so cheap of me…but she’s mistaken. Melissa and I are friends and business partners. I thought you… trusted me.”
“I did, Daniel. But why would my Mom lie to me? I just…I just don’t understand.”
“Eliza, I love you…and I can prove it,” Daniel took Eliza’s hand.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a bunch of keys.
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“See this?” He dropped the keys into Eliza’s palm. “I made the final payment for our new home yesterday. Melissa was here to help me with an idea to surprise you. But everything’s ruined now.”
“He’s lying, Eliza,” Iris insisted as she watched Eliza lift the keys with her trembling fingers.
But Eliza didn’t seem to hear. “You were going to surprise me?” she whispered.
“Yes! I wanted to drive you there in a blindfold…walk you onto the lawn…and show you our dream home. But I guess I’ll be staying there alone now. There’s no point in sharing my life with a woman who doesn’t trust me.”
Daniel snatched the keys from Eliza and stormed to their bedroom.
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“Wait, you can’t just leave me like this,” Eliza ran after Daniel. “I don’t doubt you…but I know Mom would never tell me something like this unless it’s true.”
Daniel stopped and turned around. “I don’t know what your Mom saw and heard. I’ve offered you proof. If you still don’t believe me, I don’t think this marriage can last.”
“I trust you…that’s why it hurts so much to think of you cheating on me. I love you, Daniel…”
“I love you too,” Daniel said. “I don’t understand what went wrong to make it easy for you to believe such awful things about me. If you truly believe that I’ve been unfaithful to you, tell me now. I’ll pack my things and leave you…forever.”
“I trust you! Please forgive me,” Eliza hugged Daniel as Iris couldn’t believe it.
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Iris’s heart raced in her chest. It was all too much for her. Her knees gave way as a dull pain spread through her chest. The last thing Iris heard was the piercing shrill of ambulance sirens.
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Iris was rushed to the hospital, where the doctors informed her she’d had a heart attack.
“You scared me, Mom…I’m glad you’re okay,” Eliza visited Iris and hugged her.
“I’ll feel a lot better if you tell me that you’ve kicked that fraudster and his mistress out.”
Eliza rolled her eyes. “Mom, please don’t talk about my husband like that. You’ve mistaken things about him…”
“Wake up, Eliza. He’s just using you. All that nonsense about buying a house was his way of guilt-tripping you into staying.”
“But it proves he loves me. Why would he want me to stay if he was only after my money?”
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“Why don’t you check your prenup, Eliza?” Iris snapped. “Good Lord, how do I make you understand that your husband is a gold-digger?”
“Mom, please stop this. Let’s not assume things and punish Daniel for something he’s never done.”
“Fine then,” Iris said. “If you don’t want to open your eyes and see the reality, then things are going to be different from now on.”
“What do you mean, Mom?”
Iris reached for her phone and dialed a number.
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“Hello, Mr. Simms…I’m calling you about my will,” Iris told her lawyer. “I want to make an urgent change. I’ve decided to leave all my wealth to charity. My daughter will not inherit a dime. And I want you to freeze her bank account. Yes…immediately. Thank you.”
“What?” Eliza stood shocked. “You can’t be serious.”
“I’m sorry, Eliza, but you left me with no choice. I don’t want our family’s hard-earned money being palmed to a gold-digger using you.”
“Fine!” Eliza yelled. “If you’re cutting me off your will, so be it. I don’t want to see you again.”
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The following few weeks were the most challenging days for Iris. She underwent heart surgery and was released from the hospital after a long recovery period.
She felt very lonely and even tried calling Eliza. But her daughter never answered, and Iris was heartbroken. She called her every day and sent her text messages.
Iris wasn’t surprised when there was no reply. But one day, her doorbell rang. When Iris opened the door, she froze in disbelief.
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“Eliza?!” Iris teared up as a wave of emotions washed over her. “Sweetie…”
Iris stopped talking when Eliza looked at her with red, puffy eyes.
“It’s Daniel, isn’t it?” She wrapped her arms around Eliza’s shoulders and led her inside.
“I’m sorry, Mom…I should’ve listened to you,” Eliza sobbed. “You were right!”
Iris hugged Eliza. She hated seeing her daughter so heartbroken but was glad she was finally free from that money-grubber, Daniel.
For illustration purposes only | Source: Getty Images
Tell us what you think about this story, and share it with your friends. It might inspire them and brighten their day.
Ally bursts into the church and interrupts the bride, who is about to finish saying her wedding vow. Ally introduces herself as the groom’s ex-girlfriend and accuses him of being a con man.
This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.
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