GROOMING Archives

May 8, 2020

The State I’m In

I turned 50 in December 2019 and had planned to do a grooming post around that landmark birthday, which I celebrated way too quietly. And then I had many, many fragrance posts to attend to and then… the virus exploded. And a grooming post seemed self-indulgent in the scheme of things. I mean, who should really care about what serum I put on my face at such a time‽

But then grooming is not just about looking good and presentable, although that is part of it. For myself, I know it’s a reflection of my state of mind. When my mood takes a dive, my grooming routine is one of the first things to go out the window. Which it has to some degree over the last six weeks of lockdown here in Johannesburg. As I haven’t been able to see my dear good friend / hairstylist, what’s left of my hair is sprouting in all sorts of horrible ways. So at least I have an excuse for that. But as for the rest…

“When my mood takes a dive, my grooming routine is one of the first things to go out the window.”

So you can read this post in a number of ways:

50-Something Grooming Must-Haves
Lockdown Grooming Essentials
The Illusion Of Getting Things Together For When I Have To See People Again

BLEU DE CHANEL SHAVING CREAM

My dislike for shaving is well known and documented. But when I have to tackle the unruly stubble – I generally let nature take its course for four days before reaching for the razor – I’m going to do everything in my power to make it as pleasant as possible. Bleu de Chanel Shaving Cream not only smells good – it’s imbued with the classic scent of the best-selling fragrance – it also does a damn fine job in the lathering and smooth glide departments. R960 for 100ml.

DERMALOGICA INTENSIVE MOISTURE CLEANSER

I’m a big fan of Dermalogica products as they always deliver on their promises without making ridiculous claims. Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Cleanser earns double-duty points as a cleanser and moisturiser in one – particularly useful in Johannesburg’s harsh, skin-drying climate. Ingredients include a fancy-sounding BioReplenish Complex, phytoactives from coconut and murumuru seed better and extracts of citrus, palmarosa and jasmine. I can always rely on this one to make my skin feel fresher and smoother. R525 for 150ml and R825 for 295ml.

ELIZABETH ARDEN PREVAGE CITY SMART BROAD SPECTRUM SPF50 HYDRATING SHIELD

Elizabeth Arden’s anti-ageing range, Prevage, is another one of my favourites. Every single product I’ve tried from this line has provided great results. And this one is no exception. It protects facial skin against the damage caused by pollution, UVA rays, UVB rays and smoke through an Anti-Pollution Complex, broad-spectrum SPF50 sunscreen, antioxidants and DNA Enzyme Complex. The tint blends very well with my skin tone and gives it some much-needed colour. R895 for 40ml.

NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE + NUXE PRODIGIEUX LE PARFUM

The French beauty brand is revered for its multi-purpose oil for the face, body and hair. Apart from its superb moisturising properties, it also smells wonderful. Launched in 2012 and created by Serge Majoullier, Nuxe Prodigieux Le Parfum takes its cue from the cult product and smells even more delicious.

The intro of this EDP is all about citrus notes that complement fresh and not-too-sweet orange blossom. Magnolia and gardenia intensify the floral and sunny mood. Le Parfum really comes into its own in the drydown where notes of vanilla, coconut milk and sand create the equivalent of a day at the beach in a bottle. Just what I need when any coastal travel is strictly forbidden. Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse: R345 for 50ml and R520 for 100ml. Nuxe Prodigieux Le Parfum: R855 for 50ml.

PAYOT BLUE TECHNI LISS NUIT

Due to the nature of my work, I spend way too much time in front of various screens. So this night product from the French beauty brand that combats the effects of exposure to skin-dehydrating and –ageing blue light called my name loud and clear. The gel-like balm contains a host of skin-nourishing goodies, including chaste tree and horehound extracts, nocturnal micro-algae and AHA hibiscus. R795 for 50ml. Exclusive to Dis-Chem.

JACK BLACK POWER PEEL MULTI-ACID RESURFACING PADS

American grooming brand Jack Black celebrates its 20th anniversary this year for good reason. While its prices are on the premium side, its products offer no-nonsense performance due to their high content of active ingredients. There’s nothing like an exfoliating peel to boost dull and lifeless skin, and Jack Black Power Peel Multi-Acid Resurfacing Pads do just that with a mix of lactic, glycolic, salicylic and fruit acids. As instructed, I’m using them two to four times a week, and I’m already looking perkier. R790 for 40 pads. Available from Retail Box and Absolute Skin.

ELIZABETH ARDEN PREVAGE ANTI-AGING + INTENSIVE REPAIR EYE SERUM

Elizabeth Arden Prevage features twice on this list. That’s how good it is! I’m at the stage where the delicate area around my eyes needs the most concentrated form of active ingredients – and only a serum will do. This little baby is loaded with an arsenal that includes Idebenone, Arazine, Thiotaine, a complex of hyaluronic acid, barley and sea plant extracts, biomimetic peptide blend, retinyl linoleate, vitamin B3, masterwort and ash tree bark extracts. R1 495 for 15ml.

October 10, 2019

Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment Review

I need no persuasion to try out Elizabeth Arden products, as I’ve always found them to be reliable, packed with ingredients that actually work and value for money. I’m also a sucker for anti-ageing treatments. After all, I am heading for 50 in a few months. So it was a no-brainer when the PR kindly sent me Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment to review.

Prevage is the American beauty brand’s more upmarket anti-ageing range. A skin peel is a great way to exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover, but can cause irritations. Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment takes the skin peel to a new level of efficiency with a four-week programme of increasingly stronger formulas. There’s a week’s supply of product in each of the four ampules that come in a slick-looking box. The brand promises that you will see results with every week of usage.

So what’s in these ampules? Each contains a dose of powerful skin-resurfacing ingredients. These include: polyhydroxy and alpha hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate the skin; phosphate salts to help maintain low skin pH; and the antioxidant Idebenone, which protects against ageing environmental aggressors.

As instructed, I’ve been using this product every night after cleansing and am impressed with the results so far. I’m currently on my last ampule. The tone of my skin has improved significantly and there’s a freshness to it. I don’t like finicky regimes and at first, I thought would find the mixing process a hassle, but no such worries.

This treatment is certainly on the pricey side. But for the expense, you’re getting a highly effective anti-ageing treatment that delivers on its promises. Compared to some other premium anti-ageing ranges, it’s competitively priced.

Elizabeth Arden Prevage Progressive Renewal Treatment, R2 100 for 4 x 10ml ampules. For more information, read here.

August 10, 2019

Good Oral Hygiene 101: Tips, Techniques & Tools

A few months ago I mentioned my “dental issues” in a post. I will spare you the gory details and pics, suffice to say that gingival recession (or receding gums) is my thing, if I do not always adhere to the basics of good oral hygiene.

If I am brutally honest with myself (ouch!), a bad combo of laziness and forgetfulness is largely responsible for this state of affairs. So I need all the reminders, tools and advice I can get if I don’t want to become even “longer in the tooth”.

“I need all the reminders, tools and advice I can get if I don’t want to become even ‘longer in the tooth’.”

USING THE RIGHT TOOLS

The South African PR for Sunstar, the Swiss healthcare company, read my post and kindly sent me a pack of Sunstar GUM oral hygiene products to try out. I have found the ones below particularly useful in complementing my twice-daily brushing.

Sunstar GUM Expanding Floss

Recommended if you have small gaps between the teeth, sensitive or receding gums. It expands when you use it. R60.

Sunstar GUM Easy-Flossers

Small handles with waxed floss to remove plaque between the teeth and below the gum line. R56.

Sunstar GUM Soft-Picks Advanced

Disposable dental picks with soft rubber bristles that remove plaque and debris while gently massaging and stimulating the gums. R89.

Sunstar GUM Flosbrush Automatic

A gadget that features floss built into an ergonomically-designed handle. A click dispenses a fresh measure of floss. Once used, the floss is stored separately within the handle. R116.

Sunstar GUM Tongue Cleaner

A two-sided tool – bristles to gently brush and a serrated edge to wipe the surface clean – to remove plaque and food debris from the surface of the tongue. R57.

ORAL HYGIENE 101

Using the right tools correctly is an essential part of good oral hygiene, but I also sought the advice of Dirna Grobbelaar, Ivohealth’s oral care advisor. Dirna qualified as an oral hygienist at the University of Stellenbosch in 1999 and is accredited by the Swiss Dental Academy.

Why is dental health so important? In what way does lack of oral hygiene impact on one’s overall health?

A healthy mouth is essential for a healthy life. We all have different oral flora in our mouth, including good and bad bacteria. If you have gum disease, you have more bad than good bacteria, usually because of insufficient plaque control.

When you have gum disease (you may notice your gums are red, swollen or bleed when brushing or flossing), the “bad” get into your bloodstream and circulates through your body. This can cause all kinds of other problems. Gum disease is linked to systemic diseases like diabetes, heart and lung problems, premature and underweight babies, and even erectile dysfunction.

“When you have gum disease the ‘bad’ bacteria gets into your bloodstream and circulates through your body.”

Gum disease in the early stages is reversible, but in the later stages can lead to tooth loss.

What are the signs of poor oral hygiene?

Bad breath
Sensitive gums
Red, swollen, bleeding gums
Yellow and dull teeth
Cavities/dental caries

What are the essentials of oral hygiene? Are there any steps to follow?

Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with toothpaste, using a manual or power brush. Don’t rinse with water straight after brushing. Simply spit out any excess toothpaste. Using a toothpaste or mouth rinse that contains fluoride will lower your chances of developing cavities.

Clean in-between the teeth every day, using floss or another tool, such as picks or interdental brushes. If you’re not sure how to do it correctly, or what tool to use, ask your dentist or oral hygienist. Because so many people don’t floss correctly, we created videos on how to floss like a boss, even if you have braces or implants.

Rinse, either as a final step, after eating, or when brushing isn’t possible. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash containing fluoride, or chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva and naturally “rinse” the mouth.

Is flossing as important as it’s made out to be?

Flossing is important, but I don’t like to use the word “flossing”. I prefer to say that you need to clean in-between the teeth with whatever tool you prefer.

The teeth have five sides and brushing can only reach three. Often decay and gum disease starts in between the teeth where brushing doesn’t reach.

How often should one visit a dentist and oral hygienist?

Prevention, early detection and prompt treatment will help reduce the risk of oral diseases and ensure the best treatment outcome. See a dentist at least once a year and ideally have a professional cleaning every six months. The dentist or oral hygienist can remove plaque and tartar that you are unable to remove by brushing. If not removed, the build-up will irritate the gums and cause gum disease.

For more info on Sunstar GUM products, see here. They are available from selected Checkers, Clicks, Dis-Chem, Pick n Pay and SPAR stores, as well as dentists and pharmacies.

May 3, 2019May 4, 2019

Grooming Reviews: Cetaphil Sun High Protection Spray SPF30, Super Dry Sport Revive Men’s Body Spray, BioNike Defence Man Global Anti-Ageing Serum, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, American Crew All-In-One Face Balm Serum Broad Spectrum SPF15

It always takes me time to put together a grooming post, as I give myself at least a month to determine whether a product is any good or not. These are some of the products I have been using.

CETAPHIL SUN SPF30 HIGH PROTECTION SPRAY

Whether it’s summer or winter, the sun is always harsh here in Johannesburg, so I always do my best to apply sun protection daily. The problem with sun protection products is that they are often greasy and can cause breakouts. I’m happy to report that Cetaphil Sun High Protection Spray SPF30 is not one of those products. It offers protection against UVA and AVB rays in a format that’s easy to apply and easily absorbed. It’s also water and sweat resistant, and suitable for sensitive skin. Need even higher sun protection? Cetaphil Sun SPF 50+ Very High Protection Lotion is well worth checking out, too. R265 for 150ml.

SUPER DRY SPORT REVIVE MEN’S BODY SPRAY

I haven’t worn a body spray for decades (we’re talking since my 20s), so I was keen to try this one for the hell of it. If I’m honest, the eye-catching lumo packaging had a lot to do with it. And the scent? A youthful freshie that features notes of cardamom and lemon. It’s not bad at all, but I’m way too old to wear it with any conviction. I would recommend this for a young 20-something doing the pre- or post-gym thing. R69.99 for 200ml.

AMERICAN CREW 24-HOUR DEODORANT BODY WASH

There are three things I look for when considering a body wash. 1) Do I feel clean after using it? 2) Does it lather up easily? 3) Does it smell good? American Crew 24-Hour Deodorant Body Wash delivers on all three of these basics with its fresh formula, although it is a little on the pricey side. I wear a fragrance throughout the day, so I can’t really vouch for its 24-hour claims. R375 for R450ml.

BIONIKE DEFENCE MAN GLOBAL ANTI-AGEING SERUM

As the big 5-0 approaches (please tell my skin, age is nothing but a number), I am always on the lookout for effective anti-ageing serums that won’t give me more wrinkles due to their high price. BioNike Defence Man Global Anti-Ageing Serum is just that product. It combats the signs of ageing on the face and in the eye area (so no need for a separate eye product) through a variety of active ingredients. These include skin-firming baobab extract (very useful in the fight against wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles in the eye area) and hyaluronic acid, which boosts much-needed moisture. R195 for 50ml.

CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER

I’ve seen Cetaphil products on the shelves of my local chemist for years, but it’s only recently that I’ve started using this brand’s products. I now understand why Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser has a bit of a cult following. Suitable for all skin types, it cleans the face (and the body) without stripping it. Plus it’s a gentle cleanser too. If excess sebum is your skin issue, I would recommend Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser. R123 for 125ml, R205 for 250ml and R267 for R400ml.

AMERICAN CREW ALL-IN-ONE FACE BALM SERUM BROAD SPECTRUM SPF15

Double-duty products always get my interest. After all, why use two products when one will do. This one soothes the skin after shaving and acts as an anti-ageing moisturiser (two biggies for me). The SPF is an added bonus, although I would need stronger protection. It’s a very efficient product. R415 for 170ml.

March 3, 2019

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel Review

As much as I love a good at-home face treatment, they rarely compare with the results one gets when having it in a salon. This was until I recently used Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel. It’s the brand’s strongest at-home peel and produces exceptional results.

“Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is the brand’s strongest at-home peel and produces exceptional results.”

As I get older, it’s not easy to achieve radiant skin. That’s because cell turnover slows down as we age. And did I mention the other pleasures of getting older: fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration and lacklustre skin?

Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is designed to deal with these harsh realities with a highly effective combination of ingredients. According to Dermalogica, these include:

A unique complex of phytoactive alpha hydroxy acids to help reveal new and firmer skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by removing dulling surface debris without causing dehydration.
Fermented plant enzymes to help even skin tone by resurfacing the skin and accelerating cell turnover.
Australian caviar lime extract to smooth and brighten for a more radiant complexion.

USING DERMALOGICA RAPID REVEAL PEEL

The product comes in a travel bag of 10 x 3ml tubes. As directed, I’ve been using one capsule a week and love the tingling I experience while the active ingredients do their thing. If you want super-quick results, you can use a capsule a day for the first three days.

After rinsing my face with cold water, I can already feel how my skin is feeling smoother. Even better, I’ve received several compliments about the general condition of my skin.

If you want an at-home product that produces noticeably different results in the radiance of your skin and reduction of fine lines, Dermalogica Rapid Reveal Peel is highly recommended. No downtime is required and the product is also artificial fragrance- and colour-free.

R1 450 for 10 x 3ml tubes in a travel bag with suction cups.

February 15, 2019

Grooming Goodies: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50, Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum, Mincer Pharma VitaC Infusion Hand Cream, Dentyl Dual Action, Below The Belt Instant Clean Balls, Redken Brews Shave Cream

There’s a reason why I haven’t posted that much about grooming goodies over the last few months. Partly, because I’ve been a slacker, but mostly because I was giving myself the time to properly use the following selection of grooming goodies. I’ve also included one product in this grooming goodies line-up for a laugh, but more about that further on in this post.

Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50

I was first exposed to this product last year when I went to my local Dermalogica store for one of their express facials. It’s packed with anti-ageing active ingredients to hydrate ageing skin. These range from a polypeptide, glucosamine and soy combo to stimulate collagen synthesis to skin-firming tripeptides, yeast extract and phytoestrogens. In addition, this star product provides UVA and UVB rays protection with an SPF50. As with all the Dermalogica products I’ve used in the past, Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 delivers on its promises. It also earns extra points for its absorbability and for being artificial fragrance- and colourant-free. R1 199 for 150ml.

Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum

A mouthful of a product name that perfectly describes my main skin concern. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is renowned as a highly effective anti-ageing ingredient due to its all-important collagen-building properties. Retinol can have a drying effect on the skin, so the inclusion of ceramide, with its moisture-boosting benefits, makes this product a powerful tool to combat wrinkles and lines, and boost skin texture and tone. I’ve already started seeing results. But what about the capsule format? Well, retinol is a highly unstable ingredient and exposure to sunlight and air can affect its performance. The mono-dose capsule counters these effects and means that you don’t use too much or too little of this highly recommended product among my grooming goodies. R565 for 30 capsules and R965 for 60 capsules.

Mincer Pharma VitaC Infusion Moisturizing Hand Cream

I recently reviewed two products from this Polish brand: Mincer Neo Hyaluron Strongly Firming Day Cream SPF10 and Mincer Neo Hyaluron Intensive Reconstructing Night Cream. I was impressed with them, so I decided to give this moisturising product a go, even though I don’t normally bother with hand creams. Too greasy. Too sticky. I just haven’t felt the need to use them. I’m glad I approached this product that “protects against harmful urban environments and damage caused by detergents” with an open mind, as the condition of my hands has improved since I started using it. That would come down to the active ingredients: sea buckthorn oil, camu-camu extract and shea butter. I also like the light citrus scent of this product. R85 for 100ml.

Dentyl Dual Action Alcohol-Free Mouth Wash

I have dental issues, so any product that claims to gently, but effectively improve oral well-being should be given a chance to prove itself. Dentyl Dual Action uses a dual-action process to fight plaque (the aqua-based phase one removes bacteria and plaque) and freshen breath (this phase contains natural essential oils for oral moisturising). The good news is that this product is alcohol-free, so goodbye to stinging and drying out of the mouth. It also contains fluoride. I’ve been using it for over a month as part of my daily oral-hygiene routine and am hoping my oral hygienist will notice the difference when I next see her. It’s available in the following flavours: Fresh Clove; Smooth Mint; Icy Cherry and Icy Mint. R82,95 for 500ml.

Below The Belt GROOMING Instant Clean Balls

Well, here’s a product I never knew I needed! But for a laugh, I decided to see what it’s about. The market is awash with female hygiene products and this product is classified as a male hygiene product for when a man’s balls need a bit of freshening up. It’s recommended for use on the groin area when a shower isn’t available to combat chafing and perspiration. I used it on those days when I was having a pyjamas-and-no-need-to-bath kind of day. Mostly, I felt a warm, tingling experience when using it, but couldn’t really detect much of a difference. Perhaps I need to use it when I am next camping at a three-day music event and bathing facilities are negligible. R149.99 for 75ml.

FILE UNDER GROOMING GOODIES I NEVER KNEW I NEEDED…

Redken Brews Shave Cream

The American brand launched its Redken Brews range for men fairly recently. It includes a full range of hairstyling, grooming, beard and face products. As I have been balding for a long time, I decided to focus on this shaving cream. As you know, I’m always on the lookout for shaving products that make this ritual that much easier. I’m enjoying using Redken Brews Shave Cream because it’s sensitive skin-friendly and it moisturises my skin while I use it. My only gripe is the price, but then it is imported from the USA. R580 for 150ml.

November 27, 2018November 28, 2018

3 Best Face Masks For Men: L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask, Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men, Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

The last time I blogged about face masks for men (read here), I mentioned the numerous benefits of using a face mask. I also wrote about how for every skin concern you might have, there’s a mask just waiting to be applied to your face.

Fortunately, men don’t need to be beaten with a stick any more to use a face mask. Thanks to Instagram, if anything, they now have to be reminded to wash the thing off. Show time over!

“Thanks to Instagram, men now have to be reminded to wash the thing off. Show time over!”

I’ve been using the following three face masks for men with good results.

L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

Even in my late 40s, I still have to deal with pesky blemishes. That is, the odd pimple and lots of blackheads caused by clogged pores. So this recent addition to the L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks line-up had my name written all over it. All the masks feature a trio of pure clays (kaolin, montmorillonite and ghassoul). These absorb excess sebum, eliminate imperfections and clarify the complexion, respectively. Although officially for women, I reckon they are great face masks for men.

MEN TOO: Although officially for women, L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks are great masks for men.

Featuring blemish-fighting marine algae, L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask gets the big thumbs up from me for being easy to remove/apply and how it gently clears the skin. I enjoyed the fact that I had less problems with black heads after using this product. And the blue cream looks great on the face, if Instagram is your thing.

R127 for 50ml.

Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men

If you prefer to clear your pores with a peel-off mask, this gel product is for you. Volcanic ash and activated charcoal have become very trendy in recent years (this product contains both).

“Adsorption acts like a magnet for dirt, oil and other impurities.”

Dr Sejal Shah, founder of Smarter Skin Dermatology in New York City, explained to Reader’s Digest how it works: “It works through a mechanism called adsorption, similar to bentonite clay and charcoal. Adsorption is basically an electrical attraction that causes substances to stick together. So it acts like a magnet for dirt, oil and other impurities. It also exfoliates the skin.”

As with all peel-off masks, there’s a lot of fun to be had peeling this gentle, but deep-cleansing mask from your face. Call yourself a five-star pro if you can do it all in one piece. And no, I could not establish which volcano specifically the ash used in this product comes from.

R29.95 for 15ml and R99.95 for 175ml, Dis-Chem stores nationwide.

Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

Want cleaner, firmer, more radiant skin? Yes, yes, yes please. Dead Sea mud is renowned for purifying pores, hydrating and exfoliating skin, and reducing fine lines, among others, due to its rich mineral content. All Mineraline (an Israeli brand) products are made from this mud.

I’ve tried Mineraline products before. You can read my reviews of their Purify Gentle Foaming Face Cleanser, Hydrate Super Hydrating Day Cream and Time It! Serum here. So I was looking forward to trying this product. I’m glad I did, because it gave my skin voomah each time I used it. The aloe vera and allantoin also helped soothe my skin. It’s easy to apply/remove, but like all peel-off masks works best on a clean-shaven face. It’s also very reasonably priced.

R95.00 for 100ml, Dis-Chem stores nationwide.

November 14, 2018November 14, 2018

Celebrity Fragrances: Of Perfumes, Preferences & Prejudices

Celebrity fragrances ain’t what they used to be. The category has been in steady decline for several years. According to Women’s Marketing, sales of celebrity scents in the US crashed from $150 million in 2011 to just over $50 million in 2014. In the UK, according to Cosmetics Business, sales of celebrity fragrances plummeted 22% from £56.5m in 2015 to £44.2m in 2016. Despite the grim figures, the business model for this sector is quick-in, quick-out. So new scents are still being launched.

Would you wear celebrity fragrances? Such a simple questions can provoke a flurry of reactions ranging from the downright “Never, too common!” and “Yeuch, too tacky!”, to the more measured, “Yes, great value for money” and, “Of course, they are sometimes created by top perfumers”.

Speaking for myself, I know that my decision to wear a particular celeb’s fragrance was sometimes partly based on my pre-existing ideas about that star. Do I like him/her based on interviews I had seen/read and their contributions to popular culture? So Kim Kardashian would have got a big fat “No!” from me.

Celebrity Fragrances - Adam Levine For Him EDT

THE VOICE OF REASON: But do I like you, Adam?

So I decided to put my prejudices and preferences to the test by wearing several celebrity fragrances created for a variety of stars. The results were, to say the least, revealing.

Where known, the name of the perfumer is listed in brackets after the name of the fragrance. Interestingly, quite of a few of these celebrity fragrances don’t have a listed perfumer. Perhaps to create the illusion that the celeb concerned created it?

“Do I like him/her based on interviews I had seen/read and their contributions to popular culture?”

Adam Levine For Him EDT (Yann Vasnier)

What I was expecting from the rock musician: A middle-of-the-road scent featuring an inoffensive rock ‘n roll sensibility, with hints of darn-I’m-so-sexy smugness.

What I got: A huge (and surprising blast) of guava from start to finish that completely dominates all of the other listed notes. This is classic love-it-or-hate-it-stuff that stays put for hours. Depending on your reaction, this is a very good or very bad thing.

R495 for 30ml and R695 for 50ml.

Britney Spears VIP Private Show

What I was expecting from the seen-it-all pop star: Kinda sweet, kinda trashy (in a good way), kinda fun, kinda young.
What I got: With all that initial sweetness, the equivalent of an olfactory filling, courtesy of blood orange, mango nectar and red apple notes. However, the pleasant dry-down of raspberry wood, golden amber and velvet musk brought me to my senses. I have to admit I even found myself thinking, “What’s that nice smell”, after the initial onslaught had thankfully subsided.

R585.00 for 50ml.

Gold Jay Z (Illias Ermenidis)

What I was expecting from the hip-hop mogul: Bling-meets-street cred, loud and proud.
What I got: An unexpectedly sophisticated, albeit sweet, scent that features a very agreeable pink pepper note front and centre. Other discernible notes in the eclectic mix include: blueberry, violet leaf, vanilla, cardamom, lavender and grapefruit. It’s good to be wrong (sometimes).

R620 for 90ml.

Pitbull Man EDT

What I was expecting from the Latino hit machine (or, more accurately, what I was hoping for): A hot number infused with the passions and rhythms of Cuban Miami.
What I got: A fairly standard woody-aromatic vibe, with notes of woods, cardamom, sage, violet and tonka, lending a familiar-ish (and strangely bitter) vibe. Sorry, Armando Christian Perez, a lost opportunity. Congrats, though, on the solid and slick bottle design.

R620 for 100ml.

Nude by Rihanna EDP

What I was expecting from the R&B superstar: Something provocative, sexy, perhaps even raunchy.
What I got: Featuring notes of guava, pear, gardenia, sambac jasmine and orange blossom, it’s a pretty fruity-floral that’s very much in tune with current trends. If Fenty wanted to show her softer, sweeter side, this is a case of mission accomplished. It’s a quick fader, though, which is not something I would associate with the Bajan.

R620 for 100ml.

Antonio Banderas Power of Seduction EDT

What I was expecting from the seductor Spaniard actor: I’d – shameless self-promotion alert – interviewed the man before (read here) and was familiar with several of his fragrances. So I had a head-start compared to the other celeb fragrances I’ve covered in this post. I won’t go into that here.
What I got: He’s been in the biz of seduction for 20 years and is one of Puig’s big money-spinners. So Banderas knows what will have commercial and relatively enduring appeal. Power of Seduction, his latest fragrance, opens with a fresh ’n fruity blast of bergamot and apple notes. It then morphs into an aromatic focus, with notes of lavender and sage. There’s also a big patchouli note lurking in here. While this typically masculine fragrance won’t be winning any awards for originality, it’s undeniably good quality at the price.

R505 for 50ml and R630 for 100ml.

CHRISTINA AGUILERA GLAM X EDP

What I was expecting from the American singer: Considering the name of this fragrance, it would have to be lashings of grown-up glamour.
What I got: The caramelised peach note opening doesn’t make for a very glam start. But things pick up when the floral aspect – freesia, lily of the valley, heliotrope and jasmine – slinks in. The base is all warm and cosy with notes of musk, amber and sandalwood. This is a nice-enough fragrance, but doesn’t push the glam-o-meter sufficiently to warrant its name.

236ml fine fragrance mist for R199, 30ml for R299 and 60ml for R429.

November 2, 2018

Essential Skincare Products For A Healthy-Looking Glow: Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex, Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum, Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser, L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask, Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

I haven’t blogged about essential skincare products for a while. However, I have a good excuse. I’ve been testing some very worthwhile products, which I will tell you about below.

Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser

I generally prefer washes or gels when it comes to cleaning le visage every morning and night, mainly for textural reasons. But I decided to give this cream cleanser a go, because I’ve heard good things about this South African brand. I’m glad I did, as it does a handsome job at cleaning the face, without stripping the life from it. Featuring anti-oxidant witch hazel and moisture-binding golden seaweed, it’s suitable for all skin types. R325 for 100ml, www.drgobac.com.

L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask

I was introduced to this range last year (read here), so was very keen to try the latest additions to the L’Oréal Pure Clay Masks line-up. All the masks feature a trio of pure clays (kaolin, montmorillonite and ghassoul). These absorb excess sebum, eliminate imperfections and clarify the complexion, respectively. Featuring skin-evening yuzu lemon extract and natural exfoliators, L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask is recommended for facial skin that needs a bit of lightening (yes, please!). It earns essential skincare points for being easy-peasy to apply/remove and the pretty noticeable results it produces. R127 for 50ml.

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

My skin often needs intensive moisturising. So it was more than happy to be treated recently to a twice-daily dose of this gel product. It’s loaded with powerful ingredients, such as deeply hydrating hyaluronic acid, skin-softening vitamin E and astringent tree mushroom extract. A big thumbs up to this essential skincare product for the way it’s easily absorbed and the cooling effect it has when applied to the skin. The refreshing smell is not too shabby either. R299 for 75ml.

Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum

Vitamin c has been shown to strengthen the skin’s natural defence systems against pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. But producing it in a form that can be easily delivered to and absorbed by the skin is another matter entirely. Fortunately, the smart researchers at Dermalogica have come up with a way to remedy this problem. Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum contains an ultra-stable form of vitamin C and other powerful ingredients. Together, these combat the above-mentioned problems and help the skin to protect itself. Some of these ingredients include: skin tone-evening ascorbyl methylsilanol pectinate, skin-firming palmitoyl tripeptide-5, dirt-removing lactic acid and antioxidant-rich chia seed oil. I used this product religiously twice-daily for over a month and was super-impressed by how healthy my skin looked. R1 495 for 30ml, www.dermalogica.co.za

Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

The reason I’ve included this foot-care product among various facial products is simple. While I’m fairly disciplined at taking care of le visage, my heels tend to be much neglected. I have a feeling I’m not the only one who behaves this way. The result? Unsightly and very sandal-unfriendly feet. So for the last few weeks I’ve been slathering on this product after giving my feet much-needed attention (read here for more tips). It contains anti-fungal neem oil and super-moisturising shea butter. The rosemary oil is great for circulation and combating unpleasant smells. R89.95 for 100ml, exclusive to Dis-Chem, www.dischem.co.za

July 28, 2018

Pinaud Clubman Shaving Products Review

My travails with shaving are well known, so I won’t repeat the details. But it does mean that I am always on the lookout for products that make this necessity a little easier. I was re-introduced to Pinaud Clubman products last year. But it’s only in the last month that I have started using some of the shaving products from this heritage brand.

A heritage brand always deserves an intro, so here goes. In 1810, Édouard Pinard founded the perfume and cosmetics company, Ed. Pinaud, in Paris. While the company became famous for its fragrances, its Clubman range of male toiletries became a barbershop staple. The brand was bought by American International Industries in the 1980s. The range now includes everything from bath and body to haircare products.

For this Pinaud Clubman shaving products review, I tried the Classic Barber Shave Cream, No Bumps Gel and After Shave Lotion. All of these products are available at Dis-Chem.

“The Clubman range now includes everything from bath and body to haircare products.”

PINAUD CLUBMAN CLASSIC BARBER SHAVE CREAM

I’ve spotted this product in numerous barbershops over the years, so I was keen to see how it performed at home. It claims to offer “the most comfortable, smoothest, closest shave ever… to dramatically reduce dry skin, rashes, nicks and cuts.” As a shaving gel man, it took me a while to get used to the consistency of this cream. But once I had, I could appreciate its old-school quality (complete with classic barbershop fragrance) and how it improves razor glide. R149.95 for 453ml.

“Like many men, I’m familiar with pseudofolliculitis barbae, if we are going to do Latin.”

PINAUD CLUBMAN NO BUMPS GEL

Like many men, I’m familiar with razor bumps and in-grown hairs (pseudofolliculitis barbae, if we are going to do Latin). Pinaud Clubman No Bumps Gel features salicylic acid, which is a pro at dissolving pore-clogging dirt. This helps to prevent in-grown hairs. It also contains healing and hydrating panthenol, a vitamin B-5 derivative. I am happy to report that for the weeks I used this product after shaving, I had no problems with groan-inducing in-growns (apologies, I couldn’t help myself). This product packs a potent-smelling punch when you first open it, so easy does it. R199.95 for 118ml.

PINAUD CLUBMAN AFTER SHAVE LOTION

After shaves have never been my thing. Perhaps because I have experienced really burning ones in the past. For the last part of my Pinaud Clubman shaving products review, I tried Pinaud Clubman After Shave Lotion several times for the sake of research. I love it! After all, it’s an aromatic-fougère classic with a most appealing mix of citrus, herbal and oakmoss notes. As much as I enjoy it on my face, I like it even more splashing it on my body. So this one will be migrating from my shaving products to my fragrance collection. R199.95 for 177ml.

BLEU DE CHANEL SHAVING CREAM

DERMALOGICA INTENSIVE MOISTURE CLEANSER

ELIZABETH ARDEN PREVAGE CITY SMART BROAD SPECTRUM SPF50 HYDRATING SHIELD

NUXE HUILE PRODIGIEUSE + NUXE PRODIGIEUX LE PARFUM

PAYOT BLUE TECHNI LISS NUIT

JACK BLACK POWER PEEL MULTI-ACID RESURFACING PADS

ELIZABETH ARDEN PREVAGE ANTI-AGING + INTENSIVE REPAIR EYE SERUM

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USING THE RIGHT TOOLS

ORAL HYGIENE 101

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CETAPHIL SUN SPF30 HIGH PROTECTION SPRAY

SUPER DRY SPORT REVIVE MEN’S BODY SPRAY

AMERICAN CREW 24-HOUR DEODORANT BODY WASH

BIONIKE DEFENCE MAN GLOBAL ANTI-AGEING SERUM

CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER

AMERICAN CREW ALL-IN-ONE FACE BALM SERUM BROAD SPECTRUM SPF15

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USING DERMALOGICA RAPID REVEAL PEEL

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Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50

Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum

Mincer Pharma VitaC Infusion Moisturizing Hand Cream

Dentyl Dual Action Alcohol-Free Mouth Wash

Below The Belt GROOMING Instant Clean Balls

Redken Brews Shave Cream

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L’Oréal Pure Clay Blemish Rescue Mask

Freeman Pore Clearing Peel-Off Mask With Volcanic Ash For Men

Mineraline Purify Dead Sea Mud Peel-Off Mask

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Adam Levine For Him EDT (Yann Vasnier)

Britney Spears VIP Private Show

Gold Jay Z (Illias Ermenidis)

Pitbull Man EDT

Nude by Rihanna EDP

Antonio Banderas Power of Seduction EDT

CHRISTINA AGUILERA GLAM X EDP

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Dr Gobac Cosmeceuticals Cleanser

L’Oréal Pure Clay Bright Mask

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum

Freeman Bare Foot Repairing Cracked Heel Foot Treatment

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PINAUD CLUBMAN CLASSIC BARBER SHAVE CREAM

PINAUD CLUBMAN NO BUMPS GEL

PINAUD CLUBMAN AFTER SHAVE LOTION

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