This last week I read a great article by Don Baarns, The Unlikely Salsero, regarding proper grooming habits for men that go out salsa dancing.  Indeed, I think he does a good job in the article by describing common problems with some men that go salsa dancing who fail to take care of simple things like cutting their nails, using deordorant, and even brushing their teeth!  

Aside from the most obvious things like mints and deodorant, I’ve seen many people in the salsa scene here in San Diego take an extra shirt (some people tend to sweat ALOT and women generally do not like to touch a sweaty back), a handkerchief (helps if you want to clean up in between dancers), and even talcum powder. Each person is different so the items you may bring will vary.  It’s true that sometimes you can get lucky and go to a place that has a bathroom attendant who can provide many of these items for a small fee, but it’s best not to rely on this.

In my own experience, I’ve found that its best to have prepared some basic items before going out to dance.  I never go out to dance without bringing a handkerchief, lip balm, and of course some sort of mints.  The best ones out there in my opinion are the Listerine sprays that fit nicely in your pocket.

What things do you do to prepare for dancing?  What makes up your Salsa and Latin dance grooming routine? What are some of your dance “horror” stories regarding dancing hygiene?    Share your thoughts here with a comment.