All my friends and work colleagues know that I lead a very busy lifestyle. *busy bee* From running influencer campaigns during the week to shooting content for my blog over the weekend – things can get pretty hectic, to say the least! Therefore, I have to have the best skincare products out there in order to look the part.
In this blog post, I’ve decided to show you some of my favourite products in men’s skincare department. From anti-shine moisturisers to detoxifying clay masks to PRP treatments. All of this seems like a lot of work but I’m here to guide in the right direction. Are you ready?! *yasss* Let’s get into it!
Oil-control Skincare Essentials.
If you’ve been following my blog for quite some time, you probably know that I have a very oily skin. *heats up the frying pan* For me, it’s an on-going process of finding new products that help me combat shine and breakouts.
Recently, I’ve been using a face wash and a mattifying moisturiser from Clinique for Men. These products are very lightweight and they absorb into the skin very smoothly. The formula is designed to control oil levels giving that matte and shine-free look. I use face wash twice daily and apply moisturiser in the morning for an all-day freshness.
Urban Detox.
My skin is challenged to take a stressful beating in this tough big city environment. Every day, my pores get clogged like they never see the light of day. *yikes* Therefore, I use products like Power Pore Anti-Shine & Pore Treatment and Urban Blue Detox Clay Mask from The Lab Series twice a week to keep those nasty blackheads at bay. *girl, bye* Also, the Power Lifting Serum helps fight against the visible effects of gravity and pollution. The serum increases the rate of surface cell renewal for a younger looking skin. *aims to look mid-twenties forever*
This year, I’ve noticed a growing trend in anti-pollution skincare products. Most notably, a Daily Detox Serum from QMS Medicosmetics. It is known to address skin damage caused by pollutants in the atmosphere. *it’s a cruel world out there, you know* So, I apply the serum every morning to make my skin look bright and smooth for the day to come!
Taking Skincare to the Next Level…
I’m a firm believer in maintenance over a quick fix because life is a journey and you have to keep consistently working on it. Therefore, you have to work on preventing rather than fixing something when it’s too late. Am I right?!
Several months ago, I had my first PRP treatment because I wanted to try something new using my own natural resources. I used the plasma of my own blood to regenerate my weakened cells during this one of a kind procedure. After my first treatment, I’ve noticed some of the fine lines soften and my skin overall looking fresher and more hydrated than it has in years!
The specialists at YouGlo have a wide variety of treatments available. From facials to fillers, there’s something for everybody. So, I’m looking forward to my next consultation because I’m on a quest for maintaining my charming beauty. *wink*
SHOP THE POST
Thanks to Justina Navickaite (@itsjustinesjournal) for taking these pictures. Check out her latest blog post here.
Gifting is hands down my favourite part of the holiday season. Seeing a loved one’s face light up when opening a gift that I put so much thought and effort into is just priceless. There’s nothing more important than sharing these kinds of memories with my close friends and family, especially when I don’t get to visit them that very often.
Next week, I’m going back to Lithuania for Christmas. So, I’ll be spending seven days talking about London and explaining everyone what a ‘blogger does’ for a living. Sounds fun, right? But on a serious note, I’m so incredibly lucky to have such a wonderful and supportive family. I couldn’t imagine the Christmas holiday without them! *grabs a tissue*
This season, I picked some of my favourite brands and put together a last-minute Christmas gift guide. Are you ready?! *plays cheesy Christmas songs in the background*
A Show of Stars.
It’s shocking to know that my Nan has never been in London. *shook* So, as her favourite grandson, I decided to look out for the brand that celebrates this delightfully whimsical world. Molton Brown has gift sets rich with seasonal luxuries and London in mind. Their festive wrapping is British-made in bespoke colours like bitter chocolate and celebrated in a signature grosgrain knot. I opted for their vintage with elderflower candle, shower gel and lotion set.
The Rare Blend.
Crafted in the heart of Jamaica, this rare golden rum blend is rich in mahogany hue, confident woody character and smooth robust taste. The Appleton Estate Rare Blend is produced in the lush Nassau Valley in Jamaica, which is the oldest rum distillery with over 265 years of experience. Therefore, this is a must-have item for any rum fan. Starts at £34.99.
The Cornerstone of a Great Day!
There’s no need for introduction, Cornerstone is my top shaving supply service of 2017! *once again, makes bold statements without any regrets* Cornerstone’s gift sets start at £30 and include a personalised razor handle, set of 6 blades, face scrub, shave gel, post-shave balm and travel blade cover. On top of that, the recipient will receive a £10 gift card to use on their next shaving set. What a wonderful time to master the art of shaving!
Skin ageing. Reversed.
Based on one of the most recent and important anti-ageing discoveries, Dr. Levy’s skincare products have been a vital part of my daily skincare regiment for months. Proven to boost your stem cell activity, Dr. Levy’s Booster Serum attracts and retains precious moisture to give that sought-after ‘plumping’ effect. Shea butter, vitamin E and aloe leaf juice work to calm and condition, while strengthening your skin’s defences. *found the secret to his eternal youth* Even though the price might be a little bit steep but your mother will thank you for the years to come!
An Inseparable Pair.
Sometimes, my obsession with smartphone cases and Apple Watch straps get a little bit out of hand. *orders one too many* From artist collections to make-your-own ones, there are many options for you to create that perfect gift for a tech-savvy loved one. Case Station currently runs daily Christmas deals and giveaways. So, you must check these guys out if you haven’t already! Starts at £19.99.
No Ordinary Designer Label.
Rugged good looks and sleek design make this Ted Baker watch a perfect companion for both your casual days out and formal suit and tie events. A coin-edge bezel rounds a sleek gunmetal watch marked with clean bar indexes and a date window on the grey sunray dial… Or also known as, a timeless timepiece for a millennial-mindset individual. *thumbs up*
The Whiskey Collector.
Every man in my family is a whiskey fan. So, there’s a huge pressure for me to find a good quality whiskey that is rich in taste. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is ideal for whiskey lovers wishing to grow their collection. This double barrelling of mature Woodford Reserve allows the spirit to extract an additional amount of soft, sweet oak character. The result is a complex
flavour of vanilla, dark caramel, hazelnut, apple and spices with a long, creamy finish and lingering hints of honeyed apple. Priced at £66.
… or otherwise known as, an ode to my complicated relationship with tanning.
I’m going to be brutally honest here… I’m not a fan of tanning. There, I said it! *mic drops* As someone who suffers from psoriasis, a little bit of UV light helps to keep my skin condition at bay but there’s a thin line where things can go the other way around! *taken from a chapter of my psoriasis diary*
Ever since I moved to London, I became more conscious about my skin. I established a daily skincare regiment and started to avoid things that irritate it. So, I decided to spend less time in the sun but look at ways of getting that healthy summer glow. With latest advancements in the skincare industry, there are so many tanning products out there that cater to women… But what about men?!
Recently, I have been introduced to James Read’s Hydra Tan Mist. Made specifically for men, this lightweight mist is a great alternative to traditional tanning and it’s way better! I spray my Hydra Tan Mist before I go to work or several hours before an event as it takes roughly 2-3 hours to develop. Each application gradually builds a deeper natural tan, allowing me to take control of my skin colour. *feels finally in control of his life*
The mist is transparent and has a light but masculine scent, which makes it a perfect companion to my regular aftershave. There’s no fake tan smell and (most importantly) no ruined white shirts!
After using Hydra Tan Mist for over a week, I saw some outstanding results. My skin tone looks more natural because it gradually develops over time. Therefore, James Read’s Hydra Tan Mist is a great product for a beauty-conscious man on the go.
How to apply?
Hold the nozzle at arm’s length from the face.
Spray evenly in downward motions, working it from left to right.
Lift chin. Spray the neck and under the chin area.
Remember to spray the back of your neck as well.
Allow 1-2 minutes to dry.
Apply post-shave for a cooling effect or pre-shave for a spray and go tan.
We’re in the midst of my favourite month of this season – October. The weather is getting slightly colder, the leaves are turning red/yellow and wintery coats are finally making their first public appearance since March. *yasss but really brrr*
I think there’s no better way of preparing for the coming months than stocking my place with cosy autumnal bits. So, I was patiently waiting for my hamper to arrive… and it finally did!
This month, my seasonal hamper was full of seriously lush products. From premium scented candles to bright yellow bamboo socks, my personal style just got severely zhooshed! *lights up a candle and goes to make himself some pumpkin spice tea*
All you need is love…
… or as it appears on this t-shirt! *skips The Beatles and puts on “Panda” by Desiigner* The guys at Curartee have a fine selection of quality printed t-shirts, which are made here in the UK. The artwork I’m wearing is called “All You Need is Love” and is designed by Balazs Solti. He creates some epic animal drawings. So, make sure you check his print collection here.
The scent with an adventurous spirit.
For the past several years, my obsession with scented candles has slightly got out of hand. It all started with some generic vanilla ones but then moved onto more sophisticated scents. *poor credit card*
Founded in 1845, Charles Farris candles are wrapped in an exceptionally beautiful textured glass and hand-poured in England using only the highest quality ingredients. The scent of cloves, tobacco and mint tea quickly spread across my cosy little bedroom. Therefore, making the atmosphere calm and relaxing. *cancels his spa appointment* Their standard candles burn for approximately 50 hours and I have a special offer just for my fab readers, so…
At the checkout, use code ‘SOCIAL20‘ to get 20% off your entire order! *bam*
We have you Kovered.
When I think of a smartphone case, I think about its unique design, durability and premium feel. Luckily, brands like Kovered have not only our smartphones covered but also have our environment in mind. *suddenly goes green*
Made to minimise carbon footprint, Kovered Tewa cases provide the ultimate protection for a smartphone. A lightweight veneer, fitting shell and premium lined interior make your iPhone look super chic and premium. I’d definitely recommend checking these guys out.
Oxygen for your skin.
As you may know, daily skincare routine is my number one priority. This year alone, I have gone through tons of face masks and moisturisers trying to find that secret recipe for my eternal youth… Yet, I’m still looking and the clock is ticking! *yikes* However, my prayers have been answered.
Skincare Industries has released the Oxygen & Hyaluronic Boosting Moisturiser for men. This moisturiser promotes the optimal use of oxygen which revitalises your skin complexion, smoothes wrinkles and pretty much improves everything. Therefore, it’s perfectly designed for a man like me. Someone who leads a busy lifestyle in the Big Smoke. *starts planning the 6th anniversary of his 21st birthday*
The Cornerstone of a great day!
Say no more… Cornerstone is hands down the best shaving supplier in the UK! *makes bold statements without any regrets* With its low-lather gel and newly improved razor, Cornerstone once again finds itself at the top of the male grooming listings and I couldn’t be any happier for them. I still have my previous pack, so I’m happy to gift this one if anyone’s up for having a razor with my initial on it haha… OR maybe I have a reader with the same initials (SP) as me? Please make yourself known! *on a quest to find his shaving buddy*
A sophisticated trio.
Nothing screams dapper more than matching ties, sock and squares but finding those can be quite nerve-wracking. Therefore, the guys at Tied Together will hand select this sophisticated trio for you. This set of products provides a versatile look and it’s an absolute ‘must have’ for any gent. No matter the occasion, you will look sharp and sexy. Pinky promise! *scroll down for the mandatory feet shot featuring socks from Tied Together*
Save the Giant Panda!
… Speaking of socks, I also received the jolly pair of socks from Swole Panda. *yay, pandas* This Bumblebee Yellow double cylinder pair is knitted from a unique bamboo blend offering the subtle touch of stand out style. To top this joyful mix, for every bamboo sock sold – a chunk of proceeds will go to save the giant panda. I mean, how can we not show some support for pandas?! *plays “Panda” by Desiigner, again*
The remedy for a healthy hair.
My latest haircare obsession – shampoo and conditioner from Hawkins and Brimble! This revitalising set of products contain Pro-Vitamin B5 and the coconut oil, which helps awaken the senses and soothe dry scalps. As someone who suffers from psoriasis, this incredible duo feeds my scalp with the right nutrients whilst keeping flakes at bay. *does the no-flakesdance*
All about the beard care.
I’m fairly new to the beard scene. So, I might not be the best man for this sort of advice. But the only thing I know for sure – regular shampoo often strips my beard of its natural oil which leaves me with a dry and itchy facial hair. *tragedy dot com*
The Miller’s beard shampoo bar from The Brighton Beard Company is the first great step towards good beard care. Free from parabens and sulphates, this shampoo bar cleanses the beard and underneath without any irritation. *beard game strong* After cleansing, just add some Old Joll’s beard oil to make your beard look fresh all day long!
Making you smile!
Last but not least, brush your teeth with charcoals to make your teeth significantly whiter and brighter. Proven fact! Activated Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder from Pro Teeth Whitening is 100% natural and vegan-friendly. Therefore, it’s safe and kind on enamel. I’ve been using this product for over a year now and the results are really noticeable. I no longer use the whitening feature on Facetune, which is one step closer to insta-perfection! *insert the nail polish emoji here*
Getting a haircut is pretty much a life changing experience. A significant amount of weight drops off your shoulders and you start to look fabulous again… If it’s done right, of course. *giggles* Ever since I moved to London, I struggled to find the right barber who would really understand my grooming needs. *hashtag needy-queen* When it comes to hairstyles, I’m very precise. I like to keep things simple and a bit different at the same time. I believe that most barbers just go with what’s trending. So, I’m on a quest to find someone who thinks outside of the (hairy) box.
Back in June, I met Joe Easton from Man Made London. During London Fashion Week Men’s, Joe was working alongside Cornerstone to provide the best wet shaving experience to visitors of The Century Club. As someone who has no idea how to shave, this was the perfect opportunity to get some expert advice.
From the moment we met, Joe knew exactly what style works with my jaw line. He used hot towels infused with essential oils to open up the pores. Then, scrub and shave using Cornerstone’s signature razor blades. The whole experience was very relaxing and I (obviously) wouldn’t mind doing that everyday.
The Conscientious Gentleman.
Following our meeting at The Century Club, I reached out to Joe to enquire for the ultimate Man Made London experience. It was the early morning of Laura’s (@laura.works) big day – the wedding. Therefore, I was looking to go for a simple hairstyle and finally find out what sort of products work well with my hair. *feels lost* In the past couple of years, my hair got slightly thinner which is a dream come true to my mum who is a hairdresser. It’s about time I make most of what I have got left, literally!
During my appointment, Joe suggested that I should use Texture Salt Spray to add thickness and definition to my hair, then blow dry it to give that 2nd day feel. To finish off my look, Joe recommended Man Made’s own No. 4 Cream to give a light but long-lasting hold. The cream adds natural shine and control, and is completely paraban free! *swish swish*
Man Made London is a place that goes way beyond just a barber shop. It’s a professional environment that resembles a private members club. An institution where men of class and sass can enjoy a drink in a sophisticated setting. Also, there’s an in house Aesthetic Clinic for those who look to enhance their looks a little bit more. * wink wink* I’m currently looking to buy their bundle packages. For instance, you can get 6 haircuts for the price of 5! *happy dance* See the full price list here.
