Category Archives: Review

Gentlemen’s Review – Jack Black – Beard Lube & Conditioning Shave

April 22, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , 6 Comments

 

Jack Black Beard LubeToday, we are discussing every gentleman’s favorite bathroom grooming ritual – shaving. And on deck we have the Jack Black Beard Lube being examined. Spanning the duration of this website, I have been granted the privilege of documenting my grooming escapades with a variety of skincare products, and this perhaps ranks as the most interesting to date. When preparing for a traditional shave, a gentleman is usually armed with three grooming products – aside from his trusty razor – that he employs during his shaving regimen: pre-shave oil, shave cream, and a post-shave soothing agent for the skin.

The Jack Black Beard Lube combines all three grooming entities into one tube to cover all the bases a gentleman requires when taking a sharp blade to face. The beard lube is indeed interesting. I am generally accustomed to a shave gel with a decent enough lather to provide not only sufficient comfort to my skin, but also a mental comfort of knowing the blade will glide across my throat absent the threat of severing my carotid artery. Now, since you are reading this post today, I obviously did not slit my throat using the Jack Black Beard Lube. Nevertheless, that does not speak to actual shaving performance. So, without any further delay, let’s dive into my observations and thoughts on this highly unique shaving product.

Observations

  • The beard lube retains a light, creamy texture as it emerges from its dark blue tube.
  • Immediately, you will discover that this particular shave cream does not lather like any previous shaving cream you have employed. Now, the product may appear to be creamy when you squeeze it out of the tube, but it is a little oily when you rub it on the skin.
  • Despite the noticeable absence of a rich lather, the cream is still visible enough on the skin, so re-application isn’t necessary if you feel you’ve missed a spot. It doesn’t dry out as some shave gels have the reputation to do, so again, repeated applications is not needed.
  • A jelly bean sized amount on the fingertip is sufficient enough to cover perhaps a 1-2 inch radius on the skin. Of course, this is all dependant upon how much you prefer to use.
  • The shave itself is smooth. Again, mentally, you will have to adjust to not seeing your face lathered up. Nevertheless, the oils assist the razor in moving gently across the skin with no snags or tugs. For thicker beards, I would definitely suggest using an electric razor to plow through your facial wilderness before trying to shave any closer. I say that because the tube is relatively small and the retail price is expensive. So, you don’t want to liberally use the shave cream unnecessarily.
  • Post shave: the skin is left refreshingly soft and smooth. No irritation. No blood. No burn. It should be noted that this product has macadamia nut oil as an ingredient. I am allergic to nuts, but I did not have any adverse effects. However, this is just my experience. If you have a severe nut allergy, proceed with caution.
  • Available sizes: 3 oz ($11.00), 6 oz ($17.00), 16 oz ($33.00)
  • The only drawback would be the price. Honestly, it is a great shave cream. And given that it is essential 3 product combined into 1, a gentleman may be receiving a bargain. Nevertheless, if you are shaving 3-4 times per week, you might run the risk of blowing through a few tubes a month. And that can add up quickly. So, if you have the disposable income to enjoy such a luxury, I would definitely recommend this product. If you are a gentleman with a moderate revenue stream, purchase this for yourself during those special times when you want to treat yourself.

Product Specifications

Beard Lube – Conditioning Shave with Jojoba & Eucalyptus

An entirely new way to shave. Unlike traditional shaving foams and gels which can dry out skin, our award-winning Beard Lube® is a pre-shave oil, shave cream and facial skin treatment in one easy-to-use product specially formulated for men’s shaving needs. 

The unique formula contains phospholipids – a rich source of essential fatty acids that are essential to the function of cell membranes – to bind moisture to the skin and support the natural skin barrier. The lightweight, penetrating formula not only helps prepare your beard by penetrating and softening whisker growth, it holds in moisture so your shaving blade glides easily. Refreshes skin, too, for an easier, smoother shave and less razor burn.

The unique see-through texture lets you see where you’re shaving, helping to prevent nicks and cuts–especially great for shaving side burns, moustache and head. Won’t clog your blade, because it is super light and rinses easily. 

Key Ingredients

  • Macadamia Nut Oil, Jojoba Oil and Glycerin provide a lubricating, protective cushion.
  • Phospholipids bind moisture to the skin and support the natural skin barrier.
  • Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Menthol refresh and revitalize skin.
  • Heather helps calm and soothe skin.

For more information about Jack Black products, please visit Jack Black HERE for more details.

Gentlemen’s Standard Approved

Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

Gentlemen’s Review – Swiss Stays – Collar Stays

March 10, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , Leave a comment

Swiss StaysFor the discerning gentleman that appreciates the unspoken sophistication that an unobtrusive accessory may grant; the patented adjustable collar stay from Swiss Stays is under TGS’s microscope today. Birthed from sartorial necessity by custom clothier and founder of Astor & Black, David Schottenstein, the adjustable collar stay was invented to mitigate any frustrations that may arise when trying to coordinate the correct collar stay with the correct shirt collar. Now, for the sake of definition, a collar stay is a small shirt accessory, fashioned in the shape of shirt collar tip, designed to slide into specifically cut pockets beneath the shirt collar. The purpose is to provide much-needed stability and weight to a shirt collar that can that may be prone to floppiness and slackness.

Now, a collar stay may arrive in the material form of brass, stainless steel, titanium, plastic, mother of pearl, horn, etc. Some shirts may already possess collar stays upon purchase – most likely of the plastic or brass variety. They are also designed with varying lengths for the differing collar styles that may be on the market. With Swiss Stays, the available materials for purchase are as follows: plastic (PVC), stainless steel, brass, and titanium. For review purposes, TGS was shipped both the PVC and titanium versions. Pertaining to length, the offerings from Swiss Stays have four adjustable positions for a gentleman’s preference as demonstrated below.

Swiss Stays 2

So, let’s jump into the dapper details of these unique collar stays. As mentioned above, the uniqueness of these collar stays reside in the function of adaptability. The titanium collar stays are decidedly sturdy and strong – almost to a fault. It is going to take a little finger strength to adjust your stays into the desired positions. I’ve found that the easiest method is to use your thumb to push apart the two moving parts, and then push them together simultaneously to move back into the starting position (visual #1). With the passage of time, perhaps the moving parts will loosen sufficiently for the various configurations. One thing is for sure, these collar stays won’t break anytime soon.

Now, the PVC collar stays were much more flexible than its titanium associate. It should be noted that although the material is plastic, it still feels stronger than the plastic stays one might find in a newly purchased shirt. This plastic version from Swiss Stays would probably suit the gentleman who isn’t particular about floppy collars, but may be intrigued about the possibility of keeping them in check.

Housed in a metal package that closely resembles a vintage Zippo lighter, three pairs of any collar stay of choice sit neatly arranged in two rows of three. Each version of collar stay must be returned to its original folded position to be placed back into its case. I should also add – as a gentleman who has misplaced a few collar stays over time – the metal storing case is a nice touch. It allows a gentleman to smartly keep track of his stays.

Swiss Stays 3And now – pricing: Available in four different materials and price points (PVC $8; Stainless Steel $20; Brass $30; and Titanium $50), they come in packs of six and fit all 24 different styles of shirt collars on the market. Also available, a sterling silver leather gift set ($150). Depending on your sartorial lifestyle, a cool set of these unique collar stays could be the solution you have desired to tame that undesirable case of runaway collar. If you’re already an owner of a few collar stays, this offering from Swiss Stays may be worth your attention. If not, they may afford a fresh approach to how you handle your shirt collar. Stay stylish gentlemen.

Gentlemen’s Review – Armstrong & Wilson – Pocket Squares

February 23, 2014 By in Recommendations, Review, Style & Substance Tags: , , 1 Comment

IMG_1764

The gentleman’s pocket square: A discreet piece of sophistication whose primary objective is to effortlessly elevate the overall sharpness of a suit. Now, for seemingly decades, the pocket square was relegated to bland neutrality – no offense to the crisp, clean elegance of the gentleman’s white handkerchief. However, recent developments on the sartorial front has emancipated the classic accessory from the confines expected stodginess and monotony. Widely and roundly believed to be on the cusp antiquation, the contemporary pocket square has emerged reinvigorated, offering a countless amount of variety and selection. And perhaps none are as unique as the pocket squares available from Armstrong and Wilson.

Founded in 2009 by Ontario Armstrong and Clifton Wilson – each a finalist in Esquire’s Best Dressed Real Man in America – Armstrong and Wilson has sought to reinvent tradition surrounding the pocket square, and they are more than succeeding. With an astute attention to detail; the duo infused their reinterpretation with an exciting variety of color and pattern, blessed the inventory with exquisite material, and added a detail that has become their signature – a button. And now, with a surging popularity, it is not uncommon to spot their product being worn by the likes of Chris Bosh, Mos Def, Michael A. Smith, and Lebron James.

Personally, I first noticed these fashionable pocket squares a few years ago, but the pricing precluded my inclusion with the aforementioned players of the Miami Heat roster. Stunning visuals aside, dropping $55 to $85 on a single pocket square just wasn’t in my budget at the time. However, with a few job advancements and a purchase of a high quality camera, the plunge was ready to be made. So, here we are today, ready to offer an honest evaluation of the merchandise for the audience. So, let’s dive right in and break it all down for you.

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6

Gentlemen’s Review – Zirh International – Shampoo Thickening

December 2, 2013 By in Review Leave a comment

Zirh ShampooFor those individuals who might be uninformed; the follicles on my head have long ceased to produce any type of meaningful growth. I have honorably accepted the reality that the economy isn’t the only thing to experience a recession in the past decade. Yes friends, my hairline has incrementally retreated towards the back of my skull.  Moreover, the surviving slivers of my youth are so microscopically thin; utilizing a brush is so laughable at juncture that I don’t even bother with the thought. Now, I am not the kind of gentleman that is going to wage an assault against Father Time, so I usually take a straight edge to my cranium and mow it all off. Thankfully, I have a melon shaped head, so the look works for me. So, why is there a picture of shampoo above?

Well, a public relations representative reached out to me with the prospect of using the shampoo pictured above for my beard. Yes, my beard! Now, my facial landscape is one area that produces a hirsute bounty of Rick Ross proportions. It was explained to me that the Zirh Shampoo Thickening could afford my beard all the conditioning and cleaning benefits that my head would receive – if I had hair. To be truthful, I usually use soap and call it a day. However, bar soap is notorious for drying out the skin, and sometimes the issue of flaking can be bothersome, and not to mention – embarrassing.

So, I was more than willing to experiment and treat my beard to a nice shampoo in the shower. After a month of usage, overall, I was quite pleased with the results. My beard has always been moderately thick, but the growth is noticeably fuller. However, if your beard is pretty scant anyway, I cannot promise you a beard like the Duck Dynasty gentlemen. Nevertheless, my mug is softer and my beard generally looks a little better. It was a pleasant change of pace from my regular grooming regiment, so I cannot complain. So, is Zirh Shampoo Thickening for you? Check out my observations below and decide.

Observations

  • The shampoo itself is clear with a light, smooth gel consistency.
  • Required amount for a nice rich lather: just a small nickel sized drop – if that. Apply a small amount in your palm, gently rub both hands together, and apply to your wet beard for some really good foaming action.
  • And speaking of foam, the resulting lather is swift and abundant. There really isn’t a need for extra after the initial application.
  • However, it should be noted that it could take more for others since I was using the product strictly for my beard.
  • It should also be noted that as an African-American male, my facial hair could be coarser than most. But even for my type of hair, I didn’t have to use a lot.
  • Personally, when applying anything on my face, I prefer a scent that is not too overbearing. Fortunately, the Zirh Shampoo Thickening has fresh hints peppermint that are really quite pleasant.
  • Unlike soap, it did not dry out my skin and flaking was not an issue afterwards.
  • Also, rinsing was not an issue as all of the shampoo washed away without any worrisome residue.
  • Even without the usage of their conditioning product (which I plan to purchase), my beard was left pretty darn soft after hopping out the shower.
  • Expect to pay a retail price of $20.00 for a 12 fluid ounce bottle. However, keep in mind that a little really goes a long way. And I doubt that a gentleman would be shampooing his beard more than 3-4 times per week.

Product Specifications

Zirh Thickening Shampoo

Helps hair look thicker and fuller and keeps the scalp healthy. Potent body-building ingredients get lathered into the hair shaft to help increase the thickness of each strand for a full appearance.

Key Ingredients

  • Biotin: Essential nutrient to support healthy hair.
  • Silk & Keratin Proteins: Film forming proteins support body, fullness and thickness.
  • Blend of Nutrients, Proteins and Humectants: Helps hair look fuller, thicker and healthier.
  • SLES, Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Foam boosters that remove residue for a healthy scalp.

For more information about Zirh products, please visit Zirh HERE for more details.

Gentlemen’s Standard Approved

Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

Gentlemen’s Review – Tieroom – Notch Wool Neckties

September 24, 2013 By in Review Tags: , 2 Comments

IMG_1298

Sawyer

With supreme and impeachable confidence, I can publicly declare that the season of summer has quietly departed, and the arrival of fall has summarily taken its place. Here in Michigan, it commenced with a few heavy rainstorms, which effectively cooled the humid, hot weather to a respectable level of comfort and relief. Valiantly, summer attempted a final stand of sorts, as a couple of 90 degree days made surprise appearances throughout the last couple of weeks. Nonetheless, it was all for naught; fall was here and the temperatures reflected that reality. Steadily, early mornings and late nights have become appropriately nippy. Thus gentlemen, it is officially time to switch up the sartorial gear accordingly. So, let us begin with a favorite accoutrement of mine – the necktie.

Continue reading →

Gentlemen’s Review – Modern Renaissance Man – Vintage Accessories

September 11, 2013 By in Review Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment
IMG_1120

Leather Brooch

Back in late July, we featured an in-depth profile with a small independent company called Modern Renaissance Man. A company that specializes in classic gentlemanly accessories; the co-owner, Tracy Xavier, was kind enough to share the genesis of her small business, as well as her vision for the future and the current state of menswear. So now, today, we are taking a closer look at the merchandise. First, let’s address our favorite piece amongst the varied selections – their leather brooch. Absolute winner. During my interview with Tracy, I wondered aloud if brooches were something a contemporary gentleman could sport with confidence. And then this weekend I saw retired Baltimore Ravens linebacker (turned NFL commentator), Ray Lewis, rocking one on television. So, okay, that answered that question! That being said, let’s jump into the review.

Click here for the rest of my review and more awesome pictures!

Gentlemen’s Review – Bic – Bic Flex 4 Perfect Razor

July 20, 2013 By in Review Tags: , , , , , , Leave a comment

Bic Flex 4Today, we are going to talk about a subject that elicits feverish passion every time the subject is examined. If you reference the picture above, of course we are talking about shaving. Yes, this simple grooming ritual seems to fire up gentlemen across the nation when we broach the discussion here on the site. In one corner, we have gentlemen that prefer the ubiquitous safety razor. And in the opposite corner, we have gentlemen that prefer a classic straight razor. And in another corner, we have a contender that no one every speaks of – the disposable razor. Truthfully, I have never written about disposable razors because I never utilize them. The handling is clumsy. They are terribly stiff. And the blade is not comfortable. Nevertheless, I was extended the opportunity to trial the new Bic Flex 4 Perfect Razor. Ironically, the Flex 4 may be marketed as a disposable razor, but it didn’t “feel” like a disposable razor. Please read further to understand what I mean.
Continue reading →

Gentlemen’s Review – Zirh International – Protect Daily Conditioner

June 28, 2013 By in Review Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

Zirh Protect

Continuing with a review of grooming products offered by Zirh International, today I will share my experience with their Protect – Daily Facial Conditioner, or in other words…their facial moisturizer. I cannot make any spectacular claims that this moisturizer has dramatically reversed the aging process or miraculously knocked 15 years off my face. I would have to check back with the audience in 2-3 years to make that claim. What I can say is this: The Protect Daily Facial Conditioner felt very pleasant when applied on my face. The scent was very fresh, not excessively oily, and hydrated my skin very well. All in all – a pretty good product. Check out further observations below.

Observations

  • Following in the footsteps of the Zirh Clean Face Wash, the facial moisturizer also retains a light, subtle citrus fragrance.
  • Given the presence of a citrus scent, it is not as strong as the Zirh Clean Face Wash; which is good since a double dose could be a little overpowering.
  • The consistency is moderate; being not too creamy and not too watery.
  • There is a slight greasy feel to the moisturizer, but it fades away after application.
  • I didn’t have any problems with skin irritation or break-outs.
  • For usage, expect to use two dime size quantities, roughly the size of a fingertip, to sufficiently cover the entire face.
  • Keeping with this quantity, one should be able to extract more than a few months of usage out of this product.
  • Although menthol is not an active ingredient, there is a cooling sensation felt when applied to the skin. Perhaps it is the chamomile agent working on the skin. Whatever it may be, it feels nice.
  • Retails for approximately $32.50 for a tube of 3.3 fluid ounces. This may send many gentlemen running for the hills. However, if healthy skin is a priority, the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant qualities could be very appealing for that discerning gentleman.

Product Specifications

Environmental defense moisturizer
Daily skin conditioner for oily to normal skin types. Fights the negative effects of free radicals from environmental pollution and sun damage. Helps to slow the appearance of aging and improves skin’s texture and elasticity.

Key Ingredients
Vitamin E: an anti-oxidant from soybean oil soothes and helps rejuvenate the skin
Avocado Oil: a moisturizer that infuses the skin with protein without leaving an oil film
Chamomile Extract: an anti-inflammatory that calms the skin
Pycnogenol: a powerful anti-oxidant extracted from pine bark helps improve skin smoothness and elasticity

For more information about Zirh products, please visit Zirh HERE for more details.

Gentlemen’s Standard Approved

Disclosure: TGS was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample for review purposes only. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.