Tag Archives: Grooming

Review – Jack Black – The Defensive Line Anti-Aging Triple Play

June 12, 2015 By in Review Tags: , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Jack Black Defensive LineFull disclosure: I entered this fatherhood game at the tender age of 36 years old. Now, given that Father Time will eventually visit me pretty soon (if he already has not), and coupled with the reality of raising a newborn this late in life; a brother is going to require all the assistance he can get to fight back the impending reality of  burgeoning wrinkles. Even before the arrival of my daughter, I had committed myself to a robust grooming regimen with a complete overhaul of my skin care products. Jack Black was one of the first skin care brands that I decided to trial. I instantly became a huge fan.

Fast-forward to the here and now, I have been afforded the fortuitous opportunity to test and evaluate the Jack Black Defensive Line Anti-Aging Triple Play leading into Father’s Day. Consisting of Jack Black ProSeries offerings Protein Booster Skin Serum, Protein Booster Eye Rescue, and DIY Power Peel Multi-Acid Resurfacing Pads; this collective promises to address a gentleman’s face with the desired result to produce healthier skin. A great value at $100.00 (purchasing each separately will cost you $140.00), this package is a great investment for a gentleman seeking better looking skin. Let’s see what this set has to offer. Continue reading →

Review – Tommy Bahama – Island Life

June 7, 2015 By in Review Tags: , , , , Leave a comment

IMG_3042Continuing with our coverage of summertime cologne, today we are testing Tommy Bahama Island Life. Now, in the full interest of transparency, I have long favored Tommy Bahama during the summertime, as a personal favorite of mine is the 2005 Tommy Bahama for Men. It is my hope that Island Life does not fall short of my high expectations. Described as sexy and masculine, Island Life promises to offer an aromatic retreat that infuses tranquility and a peaceful escape from busy everyday life. So, let’s dive in and see if the claims are indeed true.

Observations

Top Notes: Bergamot, Tarragon, Artemisia

Middle Notes: Nutmeg, Geranium, Patchouli

Base Notes: Cedarwood, Ambrox, Vetiver

  • Starting with the presentation, Tommy Bahama Island Life arrives in a heavy, seriously thick container with a wicker band encircling its indented surface. The cologne itself is a cool light blue – most likely a visual nod to its name Island Life.
  • Figuratively and literally, Island Life commences with a quick sweet start. The bergamot and tarragon combine to produce a refreshing introduction. Probably emboldened by the artemisia, the top notes start out the gate with a deceptively strong pace. I say deceptively strong because the fragrance does start with an aggressive tone, but it immediately mellows out as it transitions toward the middle notes.
  • The middle note is my favorite part of Island Life. The light spicy note of the nutmeg balances the sweet beginning beautifully. The longevity of the middle note is sufficient, but perhaps due to my bias, I wish it was slightly longer.
  • Island Life ends in a chill and relaxed manner – indicative of its namesake. In truth, Island Life should conjure up images of an aquatic surrounding. However, this really isn’t an aquatic fragrance. Instead, I am reminded of a luau, surrounded by plenty of foliage with the smell of smoke dissipating in the air as food cooks on the grill.
  • The application of Island Life can be generous. Again, don’t be fooled by the robust introduction. It softly unwinds as time progresses. I would estimate 8-10 sprays should suffice. If applied in the morning; don’t be afraid to freshen up your scent with a few more hits. Normally I would not recommend this procedure, but the scent doesn’t stick to you as an unwelcomed guest.
  • Tommy Bahama 3.4 oz $70.00 – Available at Tommy Bahama, Macy’s,Von Maur or any fine men’s department store.
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.
 

Standard Recommendations – The Nose Hair Trimmer

April 22, 2015 By in Recommendations Tags: , Leave a comment

Panasonic TrimmerA gentleman’s grooming regimen usually entails the obligatory cadre of routine bathroom rituals: the fundamental shower or bath, the brushing and flossing of teeth, hair management, and the required application of moisturizers and deodorant. However, there are certain grooming requirements that largely go undetected or ignored. And as a gentleman ages, these grooming requirements can become problematic if left neglected. Case in point: A few months ago, I was experiencing a slight tickle inside my right nostril. Quickly surmising that I needed to blow my nose, I proceeded to relieve my nose of any mucosal debris, but alas it did not resolve the issue. Further inspecting my nose in the mirror, I was horrified to discover a long strand of hair swaying back and forth like a kite in a gentle wind.

Panicking, my mind raced – how many people had I spoken to with this unsightly, giant hair hanging out my nose? The resolution was simple: Go forth to a department store and purchase a nose hair trimmer. Sure, I incorrectly thought only men that served in World War II required the use of such a device, but now was not the moment to be prideful. No one would have to know what goes on in my bathroom – although now you do – just as long as I didn’t have hirsute nostrils come the next morning.

So there, I present to you an embarrassing moment in my mid-adult years. If you have this issue, trust, it only takes a few seconds to address, maybe once a month. The investment – the money and time – pales in comparison to the notion of having Cousin It camping out inside your nose. A gentleman can go all out and spend up to $50.00 for one or be frugal and procure a trimmer from a discount department chain such as TJ Maxx. I remember my electronics instructor from 11th grade, he had hair protruding from his both ears and nostrils. Not to mention that his chest hair was on a jail break from his dress shirt, but that is another blog post. But, anyway, I cannot allow myself to go out like that. You should not either.

Gentlemen’s Review – Zirh – Prepare Botanical Pre-shave Oil

March 31, 2015 By in Review Tags: , , , , , Leave a comment

Zirh PrepareFor all intents and purposes, a gentleman’s shaving regimen is seemingly relegated to the application of a chosen shaving cream to the face, closely followed by customary hair removal, courtesy of a series of meaningful strokes from a safety razor. It is a relatively standard practice, free of affectation and complexity. However, as my education in the art of shaving advanced, I soon became exposed to grooming details that were wholly unfamiliar. And one of those details: pre-shave oil. Coordinating with a gentleman’s shaving cream, pre-shave oil is designed to assist your razor with an easy, fluid glide across your skin. Today, we are looking at a pre-shave oil offering from Zirh, their Prepare Botanical Pre-Shave Oil. Did I escape with no cuts, razor burn, or nicks. Let’s see how it performed.

Observations

  • Packaged in a small silver squeeze container, Zirh Prepare arrives with a clear appearance and clean, odorless fragrance.
  • Given that this product is oil based, it is pleasantly light with a non-greasy touch. It does not leave a greasy residue and absorbs into the skin at a moderate pace.
  • Depending on the thickness of one’s beard, only a small amount is necessary to prepare the area that is being shaved. I estimate that perhaps a dime-sized amount is sufficient enough to cover an area an inch in diameter.
  • Regarding performance, Zirh Prepare does reduce the friction that may arise when shaving. My shave was noticeably smooth and easy. But aside from aiding my safety razor with an effortless glide across my skin, it was the post-shave feel that really stood out. Not only was there an absence of burn & irritation; my skin felt incredibly soft and supple. So, Zirh Prepare not only provides a smooth shave, it also helps moisturize and calm the skin. Please note: A Gillette Fusion safety razor was used during shaving.
  • Given its moisturizing qualities, I even employed Zirh Prepare as a beard moisturizer. My hair is slightly coarse, so Zirh Prepare really helped in softening up and providing a healthy appearance to my beard. Only a smaller amount is required if you choose to utilize Zirh Prepare in this capacity.
  • Now, I have to exercise a measure of honesty, the price point of $18.50 for just 1 fluid ounce will surely frighten some gentlemen away, especially with less expensive alternatives on the market. Nevertheless, if your shaving regimen is infrequent and your wallet can sustain the financial commitment, Zirh Prepare is a great product to have stocked in your medicine cabinet.
  • As mentioned above, retails for $18.00 at 1.0 fl oz (30 ml). Zirh offers a unique payment plan. A gentleman can choose a one time payment, or an auto-replenishment is available in bi-monthly or quarterly intervals. If anyone has any experience with this replenishment program, please feel free to comment.
  • For more details, please visit http://www.zirh.com/men-shaving-products/prepare-preshave-oil.html for information.

Product Specifications

Zirh Prepare Botanical Pre-shave Oil

Zirh Prepare is formulated for all skin types. Designed to lubricate the beard area and improve glide while shaving. Provides a protective layer that can help prevent razor burn as well as making shaving easier and more comfortable.

Key Ingredients

  • Safflower Seed Oil: Emollient plant oil that contain beneficial fatty acids that help to repair the skin’s barrier and re-moisturize dry skin
  • Carica Papaya Fruit Extract: Has exfoliating properties to provide for a smoother shave.
  • Mango Fruit Extract: Antioxidant.
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 – Lab Series – Age Rescue + Water Charged Gel Cream

December 16, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , 3 Comments

Lab Series Anti-ageMy face is gearing up for a long battle. It is with great stubbornness, accentuated with a modest air of melancholy, that I have accepted the reality of sleep-reduced days for the forseeable future. Factoring in the looming onslaught of dry, cool air the winter season will provide; my face is at a decided disadvantage. Recognizing my skin required an equalizer, I anxiously jumped at the chance to sample Lab Series’ Age Rescue + Water-Charged Gel Cream. With wrinkles and dry skin a distinct possibility, there is no shame in my game when it involves grooming nowadays. If you are a gentleman of a certain age, baby or no baby, polar vortex or no polar vortex, it is never a bad idea to pamper oneself with products that afford the hope of beating back Father Time. So, how does Lab Series Age Rescue + Water-Charged Gel measure up? Let’s dive in gentlemen.

Observations

  • With an unusual bluish-green tint, the contents arrive with a refreshingly clean scent. The texture has a light to medium consistency with a moderately greasy touch. If your skin has the tendency to be oily, I would proceed with caution if using this product. Obtaining a sample would be wise before committing to a full jar.
  • Given its slightly oily feel, a gentleman will notice a residual touch on his face a little longer after initial application. It did not bother me, but keep this tidbit in mind if you plan on purchasing a jar.
  • Absorption, however, is an easy transition into the skin as the cream goes on evenly and smoothly.
  • A gentleman can either use his cream as generously or sparingly as he deems necessary. The cream really distributes well, so a few dabs on the fingertips should suffice.
  • Instantly, the hydrating effects can be felt within your skin as a cooling sensation sweeps across the face.
  • Ringing in at hefty $50.00 per jar, it may be hard for a gentleman to commit to such an expensive moisturizer. Therefore, depending on your needs and lifestyle, the decision is ultimately your own. Truthfully, even when using everyday, a gentleman should be able to extract 2 months of usage from a single jar.
  • Available sizes: 1.7 oz ($50.00)

Product Specifications

Lab Series Age Rescue + Water Charged Gel Cream

Lab Series Skincare for Men Age Rescue + Water-Charged Gel Cream is a new innovation that unleashes the power of ginseng to help save skin from the visible effects of aging, stress and fatigue. It boosts natural collagen to help visibly repair lines, wrinkles and increase firmness while providing intense hydration instantly, over 24 hours and long-term. G-Action™ speeds energizing ginseng straight to the skin, amplifying skin’s potential to work hard and recover fast for a revitalized look while a powerful peptide duo provides intensified repair to help support skin’s natural collagen production and AO-10™, a complex of 10 top antioxidants, helps neutralize the damage caused by the environment to hold off the signs of aging.

Key Ingredients

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 – Jack Black – Eye Balm Age Minimizing Gel

December 9, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , Leave a comment

Eye BalmDesperate times – more specifically sleep training an infant – beckon desperate measures. Now, despite the gradual adaptation to sleep starvation a parent’s body will undergo, inevitably, that does not mean the repercussions won’t eventually present itself – namely in the face. It is true that as the body summons the fortitude to forge through the day, it is the face that lags, and mostly sags, behind. Thus, I decided to think outside the box a little and adjust my grooming regimen. Now, over the past year, it was not uncommon for me to drowsily stagger into my cubicle, eyes burning with puffiness and heaviness. In needed something to assuage my sleep-deprived eyes. Enter Jack Black Eye Balm – Age Minimizing Gel.

As I have matured, previously held reservations have granted ground to open-mindedness. In my late 30s, I am more receptive to the notion that personal grooming is more so preventative maintenance, rather than selfish exercises in vanity. Mentally, looking your best can certainly yield positive results regarding attitude and outlook. A gentleman can look his best, feel his best, and in turn – be the best gentleman he can. A little exaggerated? Perhaps. Yet, the possibility of dark circles around my eyes, accented by deeply-entrenched wrinkles can be a definite downer when looking in the mirror. And so, I decided to give this offering from Jack Black an opportunity to address my eye dilemma. So, let’s dive into my experience.

Observations

  • Arriving in a 14 mL tube, the Jack Black eye balm is clear in its appearance and odorless with a light gel consistency.
  • The application of the gel is smooth, quickly absorbing into the skin without bothersome residue.
  • The area underneath your eye is relatively small so only a pin-sized amount is required to provide suitable coverage.
  • The frequency of use is totally up to you. Jack Black recommends a daily regimen of morning and night application. Personally, I usually apply a dab to each eye in the morning. Going forward, I may integrate some usage at night, but currently I am fine with my morning usage after I apply my moisturizer.
  • Even if a gentleman cannot visibly discern an immediate difference, he will however be able to feel the difference. Upon application, my eyes were relieved of their puffiness as the skin gently tightened and were refreshed.
  • Some gentlemen may allow the price to deter them from investing in this eye balm. However, a gentleman will be able to extract prolonged usage from a single tube, simply because of the small amount required to treat the eyes.
  • Available sizes: 0.5 oz ($24.00)

Product Specifications

Eye Balm Age Minimizing Gel with Vitamins A & E

This high-potency eye treatment contains advanced ingredients and soothing extracts to provide three key benefits–it helps reduce puffiness, softens the appearance of dark circles and helps alleviate fine lines and wrinkles. Intense moisturizers penetrate tissue and help it maintain critical moisture, keeping skin hydrated and younger-looking. The lightweight gel formula soaks in immediately, leaving no trace on skin or greasy after feel.

Key Ingredients

  • Vitamins A and E, beta-carotene and vitamin C, high potency vitamins known to help ease the signs of aging. 
  • Grape seed extract to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Chamomile extract, camellia extract and cornflower extract to help soothe and calm skin.
  •  Panthenol to condition and soften 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 – The Art of Shaving & Bolin Webb – The Body Razor

August 26, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , , 2 Comments

IMG_2462For all intents and purposes, the intimate ritual of shaving does not hold the type of reputation that can be confused with a luxurious experience. The process is quick and dirty; a necessary act designed to quell the testosterone driven fuzz that sprouts abundantly en masse on a gentleman’s body. Alas, perhaps this practice of grooming should hold that reputation of luxury. However, the modern gentleman is not conditioned to pamper himself with such trivial matters, although the exercise of gliding a sharpened blade across one’s skin should not be considered trivial. But I digress, yes, we are not encouraged to pamper ourselves – it’s just not manly. Well, if spending a little more time in the mirror threatens the delicate balance masculinity and effeminacy, you are going to love – I’m being sarcastic here – today’s subject of review: the new Gillette BODY razor. Continue reading →

Gentlemen’s Review – Bevel – Bevel Shaving System

July 8, 2014 By in Review Tags: , , , , , 93 Comments

BevelFor better or for worse, the contemporary gentleman has been afforded the indispensable luxury of convenience. As we must stubbornly recognize our modern societal environment, we have been conditioned to accept that life is decidedly hurried. Every facet of life is now burdened with the absence of time. Thus, natural routines are now subjected to increasingly narrow time constraints. Our method of communication, the manner in which we prepare meals (if we even prepare meals at all), how we get dressed, and how we groom – it has to be swift, uncomplicated, and painless. At least, that is how our psyches have been molded to accept as fact.

So, speaking of said grooming, let’s examine the delicate art of it by way of sharpened blade, affectionately known as shaving. With each successive year, today’s gentleman is seductively bombarded with an array of new & improved razors that promise to deliver the closest and most comfortable shave known to humanity – in less time. More and more blades. Blades empowered with a lubricating strip. Blades that artfully pivot up & down, and now side to side. Blades that surprisingly vibrate during shaving. The gentleman’s razor has been equipped with a bevy of bells & whistles required to get him in and out of the bathroom as swiftly as possible, with the least amount of blood spilled as possible. Now, every gentleman has a preference, and with so many unproven promises monopolizing commercial airtime between games of the week, it really is a toss-up to determine which company adheres to its claims. Continue reading →