It’s time for that long overdue round up of solutions just too perfect for any guy to ignore. Whether you’re a minimalist, are oblivious to skincare, or have dedicated yourself to fastidious grooming — these four finds need to be on your radar this fall. It’s the first week of October and with cooler weather fast approaching, out self-care routines need a boost. Am I the only one whose complexion develops random dry patches and appears sad and dull during the change on useasons?
Low key but highly active, the following four products will help you achieve a satisfying deep clean, hydrate, moisturize, and protect against the harmful UV damage. There’s also a nifty multi-tasker for your face and facial hair that performs double duty. And since I’m on a clean’ish beauty kick lately, my recommendations are all completely non-toxic. So on trend.
OSEA Ocean Cleansing Mudd
This face wash might be called 50 Shades of OSEA because it gives you all sorts of feelings. It offers the consistency of a lotion, looks like mud, and whips your skin into shape with a single application. Not for the faint of heart, but formulated for those whose oily or combination complexion needs some serious purification instead, this cleanser is packed with detoxifying Kelp Extract, healing Jojoba Oil, and super antiseptic Tea Tree Oil. It even feels cool after you rinse off and leaves the skin feeling smoother than you’ve ever experienced. It’s the best way to combat congested pores and uneven tone. You’re welcome. $44 (150ml) aillea.com
Olie Biologique Whisker Oil
Not-so-fun fact: I look horrible with a moustache. But when I write from home and without commitments in the city, I don’t shave. Sometimes an entire week. The Olìe Biologique Whisker Oil is an impressive blend of potent botanicals that helps both my occasional facial hair and my skin look their absolute best. This nourishing fusion of plant oils does an excellent job under a shaving cream to deliver the closest shave imaginable without razor burn nor ingrown hair fiascos. If I’m not shaving, it makes for a perfect everyday moisturizer. Packed with vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids, this lightweight oil firms and brightens sallow skin almost instantly. And if you’re the guy thinking ‘how can I put oil on my face?’, you can. Less is more. This fast absorbing gem will sway the biggest sceptic. Did I mention it’s affordable and ships free with Prime? $24 (20ml) amazon.com
Alder New York Everyday Face Serum
I’m betting you guys who avoid serums do so because you think they’re fancy potions that smell like roses. No. The Alder New York Everyday Face Serum is a genius combination of just nine ingredients that delivers a mega dose of hydration and helps address enlarged pores. Fueled by Niacinamide, Willowbark Extract, and Sodium Hyaluronate, this silky solution is clear, weightless and sinks into the skin in seconds. The result? Balanced, rested, and plumper looking skin. The larger than industry standard size and wallet friendly price tag are equal parts refreshing. $36 (60ml) aldernewyork.com
Big Boy Moisturizing SPF 20 Cream
With cooler temperatures of late, we’ve all had to beef up our selected daily sunscreen. To avoid the dryness triggered by indoor heat combined with outdoor chill, I am incorporating the Big Boy SPF 20 into my routine. The lightweight yet deeply moisturizing cream seems lotion-like and absorbs without leaving any frustrating sheen behind. It is infused with plant based Squalane and Argan Oil to soothe, protect, and nourish even the most sensitive skin. Formulated and handcrafted in an artisan lab in Sicily, the brand is one of my favorite Indie Beauty Expo discoveries this year. The faint mediterranean barber shop aroma is spot on. $35 (50ml) neimanmarcus.com
