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.
