It took a while, but modern man can now accept that moisturiser is an integral part of a male skincare routine. Now it’s time to realize that what we lather up with in the shower totally matters, too.
What should we be using, then? We asked grooming blogger and founder of inhautepursuit.com Bart Kaczanowicz to share the shower essentials all fit men should wash with.
“Showers are all about multi-tasking and Dermalogica Daily Clean Scrub readies your face for the closest shave possible. Its micro-fine beads remove dead skin cells, while the scrub lifts stubble so you won’t ever see an ingrown hair again,” says Kaczanowicz. “Not only that, the heat of the shower also opens your pores for a shave with minimal skin irritation.”
Dermalogica Daily Clean Scrub, £25.65 dermalogica.co.uk
Cheap soap is a type of self-flagellation when it comes to keeping skin hydrated, but don’t reach for the shower gel just yet. “L’Occitane‘s Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap is lightly scented so won’t clash with your favourite fragrance, ultra moisturising, and best of all it lasts for ages,” says Kaczanowicz.
L’Occitane Shea Butter Soap, £8 loccitane.com
Your wallet will thank you for buying supermarket saver shampoo, but even though they’re technically dead your locks won’t be happy. “Most of us use styling products on a daily basis. Kiehl’s Tea Tree Shampoo gets rid of every trace of wax, pomade, or gel without drying your scalp or hair,” says Kaczanowicz.
Kiehl’s Tea Tree Shampoo, £15 houseoffraser.co.uk
“Elemis Skin Soothe Shave Gel is aloe vera-based, but also contains natural healing ingredients such as chamomile, arnica, witch hazel and encapsulated jojoba oil,” says Kaczanowicz. “No matter how sensitive your skin is there’s barely any chance of this irritating it.’ As a bonus, shaving in the shower keeps your pores open, ensuring all your hairs get removed with minimal fuss.
Elemis Skin Soothe Shave Gel, £22.50 elemis.com
Yes, really. Pale skin can give off an unhealthy vibe, but being at the mercy of the British weather makes it inevitable for most of us. Spray tans are an option, but tend to result in a decidedly, er, fake look. “Slather St Tropez In-Shower Gradual Tan on at the end of your shower, turn the water off for five minutes, and then rinse,” says Kaczanowicz. “The hint of tan is so subtle, people will marvel at your healthy tone, rather than reach for the shades.”
St Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower Lotion, £14.50 boots.com
