Berlin - German men are surpassing women in the amount of time they take on personal care, according to a study conducted by Germany's cosmetic association in Berlin.

Every day men take an average of 17 minutes for personal care - not including facial care. They need an additional 13 minutes for that, and they need time to shave and shower or bathe. Women take an average of 26 minutes, the cosmetic association said.

Cleansers, moisturizers and fragrances have become part of the average man's routine. The study shows that four different fragrances now can be found in an average German man's bathroom cabinet. Twelve per cent of German men use make-up. The most popular are concealers and facial powders. Lipstick and nail polish are used by 3 per cent.

The average German man invests 40 euros (60 dollars) per month on "beauty," according to the study. The cosmetic association conducted the survey together with the Burda Community Network in Munich. Nearly 1,800 men participated. (dpa)