Overall Rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$ ($30) – Available at Malin+Goetz, Bloomingdale’s, and Bigelow Chemists.
Scent: Light grapefruit.
I liked: how gentle this cleanser was on my face. It got rid of the dirt without over-drying my skin. The subtle smell of grapefruit was a nice, refreshing touch.
I didn’t like: nothing. However, guys may be hesitant to spend $30 on a face cleanser.
Less is more when it comes to Malin+Goetz’s Grapefruit Face Cleanser. This face wash effectively removes dirt without stripping the skin of vital oils. It is clear and colorless, with a slight grapefruit scent. The biggest thing I notice when using this cleanser is the lack of lather – which means it is gentle and doesn’t over-dry the skin. I used this face wash day and night with excellent results – no breakouts or signs of irritation. As usual, I immediately moisturized after every cleansing. The product’s thick texture allows you to use a little each time – which, even at $30, makes it a good value.
Do you use an aftershave balm thinking it is the only post-shave product you need to apply before leaving the house? If so, you may want to reconsider your post-shave skincare routine as many aftershave balms contain alcohol, which can over-dry the skin, and do not possess the sustained moisturizing benefits of face lotions. While aftershave balms can soothe the skin immediately after shaving, their effect is usually temporary. Face moisturizers, on the other hand, soothe AND keep the skin properly moisturized throughout the day. Also, it’s generally easier to find face moisturizers with sun protection. The next time you’re in the men’s skincare aisle debating whether to buy the aftershave balm or face moisturizer, get both…or just buy the moisturizer if you want to keep it simple. Just remember to use a lotion with an SPF before going out.
Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer Ingredients List
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
Price: $$ ($10-$20) – Available at Kiehl’s and other higher end retailers.
Scent: No noticeable scent.
I liked: how refreshing it felt around the eyes. The product did a great job at moisturizing and minimizing the puffiness around my eyes. The small size makes it ideal for carrying around at all times – fits comfortably in my pocket. Contains caffeine, Arctic Root, and hibiscus extract.
I didn’t like: that it wasn’t as effective at minimizing the dark circles around my eyes.
Overall, Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer is an effective, convenient product for moisturizing and reducing puffiness around the eyes. It also makes for a great eye refresher that can be used at any time. If you go on a bender and need help looking alive the following day, this eye “de-puffer” will come in handy.
Until recently, I never really thought about the difference between a bar of soap and a liquid face or body wash. They both serve the same function, but one has to be superior to the other. I decided to educate myself by reading a few online forum threads on the topic and found some advantages and disadvantages of each.
Bar Soap Advantages:
Convenient – good for when you’re on the go. Can be easily used without a sponge or washcloth.
Generally provides more lather when used without a washcloth.
Disadvantages:
Bar soaps are usually made with harsher ingredients which can strip your skin of oil. This often makes the skin over-produce oil to compensate for the dryness, which can ultimately lead blemishes or breakouts.
Bar soaps are less hygienic than liquid face or body washes. They are constantly exposed to moisture, which makes their surfaces ideal breeding grounds for bacterial growth. Imagine yourself sharing a bar of soap with a roommate who doesn’t have the best body hygiene habits. Just consider the places on the body a bar of soap is rubbed against.
Face or Body Wash Advantages:
Liquid Face and body washes are gentler on your skin compared to bar soaps as they don’t contain as many harsh ingredients. Liquid washes won’t strip your skin of vital oils as much as bar soaps can.
More hygienic to use than bar soaps.
Disadvantages:
Liquid washes are usually more expensive than bar soaps.
Require a washcloth or sponge for maximum lather.
Final verdict
Go with a liquid wash whenever possible. The extra money spent on liquid washes is well worth it when you consider the toll many bar soaps can take on your skin.
And remember to always moisturize after every wash!
Note: The skin on the face is thin compared to other parts of the body – which makes it more sensitive. I don’t suggest using the same soap for your face that you use for your body. If you’re going to use the same liquid cleanser for both areas, try using one that is natural and not heavily scented. Cleansers with synthetic fragrances can cause facial breakouts. For an all-in-one type of liquid cleanser, I recommend using an all-natural castille soap such as Dr. Bronner’s.
Bulldog Natural Skincare Original Face Wash for Men Ingredients List
Overall Rating: ★★★★★
Price: $ (under $10) – Available at Abe’s Market and Bulldog.
Scent: Refreshing citrus blend of Lime, lemon, and bergamot.
I liked: how it was gentle yet effective – it did not dry out my skin. The subtle masculine scent. Great value – $10 for an exceptional natural men’s face wash that’s made in England? I’ll take it.
I didn’t like: nothing. It’s one of the best natural alternatives out there for men.
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