Grooming

VMV Hypoallergenics 1635 Shaving Line

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1635 Line

I’ve been a fan of VMV Hypoallergenics ever since I started using their Hydra Balance Smart Moisturizer. In the last quarter of 2013 they released their new line called 1635. They call it Gentleman’s Therapeutic Shaving in that each product heals and improves the overall condition of the skin. It is composed of seven products: a pre-shave scrub, a pre-shave barber oil, three shave creams for different beard types (fine, coarse and all), an aftershave balm, an anti-bump aftershave solution and an aftershave gel.

As with all VMV Hypoallergenics products the 1635 line is free of fragrances, dyes, pthalates, parabens, preservatives, SLS, SLES and allergens. They sent me all their products (but only one shaving cream) so I could sample them and give my thoughts. I tested the products using two different methods: individually with my current shaving products and by following the steps prescribed by the line.
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Gentleman’s Tonic Traditional Shave Cream

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Gentleman's Tonic Shaving Cream

In the last two months I’ve switched to using Gentleman’s Tonic Traditional Shave Cream. It’s probably the best shave cream I have used so far. The ingredients it uses are similar to other high quality shave creams. It has coconut acid and glycerin which provides moisturizing properties. It has two ingredients that make it stand out from the rest: Babassu Oil helps protect the skin from drying out during the shaving process and Manuka Honey repairs, moisturizes and fights bacteria. The latter also has lactic acid which helps remove dead skin cells. Continue Reading

VMV Hypoallergenics Hydra Balance Smart Moisturizer

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Recently my girlfriend’s aunt asked me what I was using on my face. I told her that my basic regimen involves washing my face with a tea tree oil facial wash to keep my skin free of blemishes. Keeping my skin free of blemishes is important but equally important is making sure my skin is moisturized. To moisturize my skin I use VMV Hypoallergenic’s Hydra Balance Smart Moisturizer for combination skin. I’ve used it on and off over the last few years and I’m back to using it again. The ingredients are generally safe which is my initial requirement for anything that I use on my skin. It contains virgin coconut oil and glycerin to keep the skin soft and supple, glyceryl laurate (monolaurin) has antibacterial properties, and two ingredients that provide protection from the sun (SPF 15). Minimizing the amount of stuff I use on my face is important so having SPF 15 is a big plus for me so I do not have to use a separate sunscreen. It’s easily absorbed by the skin and doesn’t whiten it or make it shine. If you’re looking for a moisturizer with sunscreen I highly recommended this product.

Whiskey Aftershave and Shaving Soap via Kaufmann Mercantile

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If there was only a single store in my neighborhood it would have to be Kaufmann Mercantile. Founded by Sebastian Kaufmann in 2009, the store offers a line of carefully selected products known for their functionality and aesthetics. Their selection of products call to mind a general store in a small town yet updated for people living in the city and a modern lifestyle. Continue Reading

Natural Sea Sponge

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For the last few weeks I’ve been using a natural sea sponge when bathing. They are softer and absorb dirt unlike synthetic sponges that are rougher and only dislodge dirt. I noticed that it also produces a better lather and keeps more liquid soap in it compared to synthetic sponges. They are gentle on the skin and ideal for those with sensitive skin such as babies. There are different grades and come from different parts of the world so it’s best to do a little research before buying. When properly cared for natural sea sponges will last for years making them a good purchase.

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I purchased my natural sea sponge from Joyce Grooming in Hong Kong.

Edwin Jagger Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush

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Those who have been following this blog would notice that grooming has taken a back seat. In the last year I have used a very good cream: Acca Kappa Almond Shaving Cream. As for my shaving brush I’ve stuck with a boar hair brush and I thought it was high time I upgrade my shaving routine by getting a badger hair brush. After doing some research and assessing how much I would spend for a shaving brush I decided to get the Edwin Jagger Best Badger Hair Shaving Brush. Continue Reading

Upgrade Your Skincare Arsenal – Spot Corrector, Lip Balm and Hand Cream

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When the perfect shave has been achieved what else is there to add to a man’s skincare kit? There are quite a few starting with the spot corrector, lip balm and hand cream.

Spot Corrector

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Whenever a pimple appears I like to reach for a spot corrector. My choice is Nature’s Gate Extra Strength Spot Corrector. A small amount quickly takes care of the redness and after two or three applications the pimple is gone. Useful for pimples that appear near the surface of the skin. It’s best applied twice a day after your morning shower and before going to bed at night. Did I mention that it works great on bumps caused by in-grown hair?

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Acca Kappa Almond Shaving Cream – Italian Luxury In Every Shave

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I’ve missed shaving cream ever since I started using Portland General Store’s Old-Fashioned Wet Shave Jelly. Using a shaving cream just isn’t the same as a shaving jelly. A shaving cream just feels more luxurious and has more moisturizing properties. And that’s what I got with the Almond Shaving Cream by Acca Kappa. For only PHP 695 it was a small price to pay for a high quality product made by one of the oldest and well-known grooming companies in the world that still keeps the production in Italy. Continue Reading

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