A place for the guys
Right guys, I hate to tell you this, but on the whole, your hair care and skin care routine is pretty bad! We are no longer living in caves, and there's certainly no need to act like it! The days of men being men are long dead, along with the whole "me man, me need look like man" mentality. Thanks to the rise of the "Metrosexual", men’s personal care has come along leaps and bounds, and with the plethora of products out there, so should you. I've selected a few of my favourite professional products which are perfect for men as they have been designed with men in mind. So ditch the BOGOF shaving gel, the dodgy caffeine shampoo and that god awful aftershave your ex got you, and immerse yourself into a whole new way of thinking about how you look.
The new Ritual For Hair - The 4 C's
It's fair to say that we all have our own unique and individual style with what we like, how we like to do it and how we do it, and the great thing with fashion is, there is no right or wrong. However there are rules to follow and these are the 4 C's:
Cleanse
Condition
Create
Complete
Basically, following these 4 rules will ensure that you have the easiest time possible creating your chosen style. However, there are some things you need to take into consideration, such as hair and scalp condition, abundance and thickness (how much you have and how thick it is), if it is coloured, dry, greasy, grey etc. You will then also have to think about what your desired style is, do you want something short and neat, or do you want something bold and adventurous? Knowing the answers to these questions in your own head will give you a pretty good idea of which products are going to be best for you.
Choosing the first two steps is generally quite an easy choice, especially with the range that is on the market aimed at men, but the final steps, Create and Complete will be a little more tricky if you don't know what you're looking for. For both neat and adventurous hairstyles, gel is usually a good bet, but you can also get sculpting foams, spritzers, powders and creams. All of which do completely different things and are designed with every hair type you can imagine! so read the back of the bottles, search them online or get some reviews, just make sure that the choice you make for your individual needs is right.
So we've done the style, it’s in place, and you're looking good, now we need something to keep it there. For doing things like this, sprays, waxes, pomades and gels are a good bet, but should you want to try something different - give it a go, it’s your hair, and it’s your style, mix and match your products from each of the steps and rediscover fashion.
Cleanse
Condition
Create
Complete
Basically, following these 4 rules will ensure that you have the easiest time possible creating your chosen style. However, there are some things you need to take into consideration, such as hair and scalp condition, abundance and thickness (how much you have and how thick it is), if it is coloured, dry, greasy, grey etc. You will then also have to think about what your desired style is, do you want something short and neat, or do you want something bold and adventurous? Knowing the answers to these questions in your own head will give you a pretty good idea of which products are going to be best for you.
Choosing the first two steps is generally quite an easy choice, especially with the range that is on the market aimed at men, but the final steps, Create and Complete will be a little more tricky if you don't know what you're looking for. For both neat and adventurous hairstyles, gel is usually a good bet, but you can also get sculpting foams, spritzers, powders and creams. All of which do completely different things and are designed with every hair type you can imagine! so read the back of the bottles, search them online or get some reviews, just make sure that the choice you make for your individual needs is right.
So we've done the style, it’s in place, and you're looking good, now we need something to keep it there. For doing things like this, sprays, waxes, pomades and gels are a good bet, but should you want to try something different - give it a go, it’s your hair, and it’s your style, mix and match your products from each of the steps and rediscover fashion.
Cleanse
Yes, we all know what it is, it’s that stuff you chuck on your head and should you dare use your other half's when you've run out, Hell hath no fury. But if you, like a lot of men just randomly pick up shampoo from the bargain bin you really don't know what you're going to get. So take a little time to evaluate what you're about shove on your barnet, and more importantly, if it's going to send it blue! Believe me, it has happened a few times to unsuspecting men over the years!
American Crew Anti Dandruff Shampoo
None of us like having flaky bits, it's not the most attractive of features. However, don't just go reaching for any Anti Dandruff shampoo, because the active ingredients are normally a very acidic combination of Citric Acid with either Coal Tar or Salicylic Acid. Taking the pH of the shampoo to a pretty acidic level. Remember the old name for Wash and Go? Wash and Gone! The reason why the unflattering name was adopted was because the formulation would physically take the very thin, top layer off the scalp, and when you don't have any hardened skin, you don't have any dandruff! Anti-dandruff shampoos normally also contain fungicides as well to kill off the Malassezia fungi which causes the dandruff.
American Crew however understand that a man’s hair is his pride and joy regardless of style, and have developed a range of shampoos and conditioners to help combat the cause of dandruff without it being quite so potent. Boasting Zinc Pyrithione and menthol, a natural soothing and cooling agent, this shampoo also boasts a super high quality antifungal and antimicrobial agent, leaving your scalp clean and fresh without any need for more caustic solutions.
American Crew however understand that a man’s hair is his pride and joy regardless of style, and have developed a range of shampoos and conditioners to help combat the cause of dandruff without it being quite so potent. Boasting Zinc Pyrithione and menthol, a natural soothing and cooling agent, this shampoo also boasts a super high quality antifungal and antimicrobial agent, leaving your scalp clean and fresh without any need for more caustic solutions.
American Crew Daily Shampoo
Okay, so we have to all admit, some people have naturally perfect hair with the help of a good stylist who knows how to use a pair of scissors. But why let yourself down when it comes to your daily grooming? You are after all your own advertisement, and want to look your best at all times.
The great thing with the Daily Shampoo is that it comes with all the right features you'd expect from a professional shampoo and more. Daily Shampoo comes with Panama Bark, Wheat proteins and Rosemary and Thyme extracts, which give the product an invigorating scent with very masculine undertones. Its pH balanced formula ensures that there is never any irritation during your daily scrub. From the first shampoo you will see and feel the difference as the gentle, naturally derived cleansers get to work without stripping any of the hairs natural oils, leaving it shiny, full of strength and healthy. For those of you that have drier hair, check out the Daily Moisturising Shampoo.
A little tip for you though, if it’s been a hot day and your head feels rank, add some sugar to the shampoo in your hand before shampooing for a thorough scalp exfoliation to leave you feeling fresh and ready for anything.
The great thing with the Daily Shampoo is that it comes with all the right features you'd expect from a professional shampoo and more. Daily Shampoo comes with Panama Bark, Wheat proteins and Rosemary and Thyme extracts, which give the product an invigorating scent with very masculine undertones. Its pH balanced formula ensures that there is never any irritation during your daily scrub. From the first shampoo you will see and feel the difference as the gentle, naturally derived cleansers get to work without stripping any of the hairs natural oils, leaving it shiny, full of strength and healthy. For those of you that have drier hair, check out the Daily Moisturising Shampoo.
A little tip for you though, if it’s been a hot day and your head feels rank, add some sugar to the shampoo in your hand before shampooing for a thorough scalp exfoliation to leave you feeling fresh and ready for anything.
American Crew Thickening Shampoo
Thinning hair is one of the banes of any man’s life, and in a recent study, men who were showing signs of receding or thinning were less confident in themselves than before they began to thin out. Fortunately, the guys at American Crew have formulated a clever thickening shampoo that actually does work and isn't just a load of spiel.
Boasting the usual quality of American Crew products, this shampoo gives physically thicker hair thanks to the top notch quality Glycerine which swells the hair shaft by retaining water in the hair, giving you visibly thicker looking hair and volume. The gentle cleansing action also ensures that the scalp is stimulated while Coconut Oil and Sage Extract promote a healthy gloss and softness.
Boasting the usual quality of American Crew products, this shampoo gives physically thicker hair thanks to the top notch quality Glycerine which swells the hair shaft by retaining water in the hair, giving you visibly thicker looking hair and volume. The gentle cleansing action also ensures that the scalp is stimulated while Coconut Oil and Sage Extract promote a healthy gloss and softness.
American Crew Classic Body Wash
So we've tried and tested all of the American Crew products, and this is an absolute must for anyone wanting to make the all-important good impression. The refreshing scent goes hand in hand with all of the American Crew Products, and with its premium active cleansers of Glycerine and Aloe, you will be left with clean, fresh skin while vitamins A and E help to ensure the skin is moisturised and supple. Essential antioxidants are also present in the American Crew Classic Body Wash, and will improve the texture, firmness and feel of the skin.
As mentioned above, this body wash not only does a great job, but with a combination of the Classic American Crew Fragrance, Ginseng Root Extract and Cedarwood Bark Oil, this scent is not only subtle yet masculine, but also a guaranteed winner for every occasion from the boardroom to the bar.
As mentioned above, this body wash not only does a great job, but with a combination of the Classic American Crew Fragrance, Ginseng Root Extract and Cedarwood Bark Oil, this scent is not only subtle yet masculine, but also a guaranteed winner for every occasion from the boardroom to the bar.
Condition
I don't care what you guys may think to conditioner, but it is a simple fact that you really should complete your cleanse with a conditioner. This is because no matter how gentle the shampoo, the cuticle (the outside bit of your hair) is lifted ever so slightly, and the more it is lifted, the duller your hair will look. Conditioner however, is designed to smooth down the cuticle, giving your hair that soft, manageable and healthy look which all of us want.
American Crew Stimulating Conditioner
Leading us on to the American Crew Stimulating Conditioner. With natural Menthol and Rosemary to invigorate the scalp, Vitamin B5 leaves hair softer and more manageable while detangling.
The natural ingredients in this Conditioner also tone and moisturise the scalp, preventing dryness and itching while the cool fragrance really helps bring you back to life and ready to face the day.
The natural ingredients in this Conditioner also tone and moisturise the scalp, preventing dryness and itching while the cool fragrance really helps bring you back to life and ready to face the day.
Create
This is where you get to have some fun with your looks. Not only can you create a variety of styles with just a few products, you'll be safe in the knowledge that the products you use will be nourishing and protecting the hair from heat damage, UV and outside pollutants (except for your mother-in-law!).
American Crew Curl Construct
This is one of American Crews more popular products for men with problem curls.
Allowing you to create bold curls for a full on defined look, or just enhance waves, this supporting cream will ensure that every day is a good hair day. Panthenol provides added body and definition, where Polyquaternium-10 reduces static electricity preventing hair "fluffing up" in humid conditions.
The other benefits of using Curl Construct is that you can both Blow Dry or diffuse or leave it to dry naturally for a less worked look. Use sparingly however, as a little really does go a long way!
The multiple looks you can create from this styler is almost endless for curls and waves, and its added body and shine properties ensure that texture and condition are improved and the strong hold formulation ensures that your style will last as long as needed.
Allowing you to create bold curls for a full on defined look, or just enhance waves, this supporting cream will ensure that every day is a good hair day. Panthenol provides added body and definition, where Polyquaternium-10 reduces static electricity preventing hair "fluffing up" in humid conditions.
The other benefits of using Curl Construct is that you can both Blow Dry or diffuse or leave it to dry naturally for a less worked look. Use sparingly however, as a little really does go a long way!
The multiple looks you can create from this styler is almost endless for curls and waves, and its added body and shine properties ensure that texture and condition are improved and the strong hold formulation ensures that your style will last as long as needed.
American Crew Citrus Mint High Hold Styling Gel
This is one of only 4 products in the Citrus Mint range, however, this High Hold Styler is a real winner for doing things like quiffs, rolls or even just to tame your curl without the need to dry.
As this gel is high in natural citrus oils, it is a highly refreshing and invigorating gel. Giving you high hold you can be sure that your style will last well into the night. The lack of Alcohol and the addition of Provitamin B5 promotes healthy hair while the Certified Organic grapefruit and orange extracts will provide antioxidants and easy washing out.
The Dual Polymer Complex used in American Crew Citrus Mint Gel gives you high flexibility and workability without it being sticky and clumpy giving your style a flawless consistency without flaking and drying the scalp out.
Tip: if you have used this to blow shape and body into your hair, you can finish off with one of the products below.
As this gel is high in natural citrus oils, it is a highly refreshing and invigorating gel. Giving you high hold you can be sure that your style will last well into the night. The lack of Alcohol and the addition of Provitamin B5 promotes healthy hair while the Certified Organic grapefruit and orange extracts will provide antioxidants and easy washing out.
The Dual Polymer Complex used in American Crew Citrus Mint Gel gives you high flexibility and workability without it being sticky and clumpy giving your style a flawless consistency without flaking and drying the scalp out.
Tip: if you have used this to blow shape and body into your hair, you can finish off with one of the products below.
Complete
So you've done your hair, it's looking sexy, all we need to do now is to finish it off. This part of the creation of your look is the most important, as this is where you tweak and lock into place your style. You can finish your look off with nearly everything and anything from hairspray to crèmes, to putty to gel. The choice is endless, all you need to ask yourself is how long, how shiny and how strong.
American Crew Fiber
This has got to be THE most popular product from Crew's extensive range. It has a strong yet flexible hold factor, and a very matte finish for those wanting a more natural and conservative finish. The resinous, fiber like consistency adds thickness and texture to short styles.
The active ingredients provide the hair with a smooth to touch finish, unsurpassed hold and a fine conditioner prevents moisture loss.
The active ingredients provide the hair with a smooth to touch finish, unsurpassed hold and a fine conditioner prevents moisture loss.
American Crew Forming Cream
The Forming Cream is a medium hold, medium shine cream which gives you ultimate control in the final stage of your creation. The easy to use, water based and easily washed out cream works well for all hair types, allowing you to piece, slick and spike with the ultimate pliability.
The active ingredient Lanolin Wax makes the hair appear thicker and is perfect for you guys who are thinking of taking the plunge into real luxury for men.
The active ingredient Lanolin Wax makes the hair appear thicker and is perfect for you guys who are thinking of taking the plunge into real luxury for men.
American Crew Pomade
If you're looking for shine, then this is the one for you! This high shine medium hold pomade is especially good for guys with curly hair that don't want to use a gel. It is also highly recommended for slick, classic styles such as finishing off quiffs, sides or Rolls.
As this product is water based, it easily shampoos out leaving no residue or traces. Lanolin helps give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair while the Complex Strong Hold formula gives superior hold in such a pliable product.
A must have product for guys who dare to be different!
As this product is water based, it easily shampoos out leaving no residue or traces. Lanolin helps give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair while the Complex Strong Hold formula gives superior hold in such a pliable product.
A must have product for guys who dare to be different!
A few added extras
We all know that shaving at times is the bane of all of our lives at some point or another. From shaving rash and razor burn to facial hair being so coarse that your razor feels like your trying to plane down wire wool. So below, you'll find some of my tried and tested Shave products, which I can guarantee will completely change your morning shave, making it more comfortable and above all, as hassle free as shaving can get!
Obviously the usual rules apply for all shaving routines, which is wash your face with a gentle face wash, and blot dry with a towel, then choose your prefered shave product, and away you go. After shaving, you should always apply a cooling post shave lotion to ensure that your skin is well moisturized and to minimise shaving rash creeping in.
Obviously the usual rules apply for all shaving routines, which is wash your face with a gentle face wash, and blot dry with a towel, then choose your prefered shave product, and away you go. After shaving, you should always apply a cooling post shave lotion to ensure that your skin is well moisturized and to minimise shaving rash creeping in.
Lubricating Shave Oil
If you, like a lot of men out there have really coarse and strong facial hair, this lubricating shaving oil is right for you. Eucalyptus and Clove help combat nicks, bumps and ingrown hair, while the natural oil blends of Rosemary and Clove extracts make this ultra light oil pack a punch by moisturizing and softening facial hair more quickly than gels and creams, meaning you get a closer, smoother shave without having to apply more pressure. Simply apply around 5 drops into the palm of your hand, rub together and apply to the face. Leave for a few seconds and shave away yesterdays problems.
For the ultimate shaving experience, apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion.
For the ultimate shaving experience, apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion.
PRECISION Shave Gel
For normal to fine facial hair, the Precision Shave Gel from American Crew is a non foaming, high viscosity gel designed for the ultimate comfort during shaving. Containing pumpkin seed oil and Tea Tree extract, this gel works hard to prevent nicks, cuts and flare ups.
The Shave Gel also comes packed with antioxidants and Zinc to help skin regenerate while moisturizing, essential fatty acids to regulate the production of Sebum, Anti-Microbial, Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory properties, this gel is a perfect way to start the day.
Should you wish to get an even closer shave, layer some Moisturizing Shave Cream over some Lubricating Shave Oil for the ultimate in Men's luxury grooming.
After your shave, rinse off and apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion.
The Shave Gel also comes packed with antioxidants and Zinc to help skin regenerate while moisturizing, essential fatty acids to regulate the production of Sebum, Anti-Microbial, Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory properties, this gel is a perfect way to start the day.
Should you wish to get an even closer shave, layer some Moisturizing Shave Cream over some Lubricating Shave Oil for the ultimate in Men's luxury grooming.
After your shave, rinse off and apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion.
Moisturizing Shave Cream
Heres a good one for Normal to Coarse facial hair. This herbal, conditioning formula boasts powerful antioxidants and oils to ensure that your razor glides effortlessly without drying out the skin. The natural antiseptic and healing properties of the cream make it ideal for those with sensitive skin, while vitamins A&B absorb UV from the sun.
This cream, due to the nature of it, also comes highly recommended to those who have shaped beards/goatees as you will always be able to see exactly where you have and haven't shaved, also those of you that need that little bit of extra hydration to the skin, this cream will provide you with just enough without overloading the skin.
For the closest possible shave, layer on top of a fine application of American Crew Shave Oil.
Once you have finished shaving, always apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion for added vitality and moisture for your skin while also combating razor burn, rashes, lumps and bumps.
This cream, due to the nature of it, also comes highly recommended to those who have shaped beards/goatees as you will always be able to see exactly where you have and haven't shaved, also those of you that need that little bit of extra hydration to the skin, this cream will provide you with just enough without overloading the skin.
For the closest possible shave, layer on top of a fine application of American Crew Shave Oil.
Once you have finished shaving, always apply a small amount of American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion for added vitality and moisture for your skin while also combating razor burn, rashes, lumps and bumps.
Post Shave Cooling Lotion
After Shaving, skin can be dry, irritable and sore. Always ensure to complete your shaving routine with American Crew Post Shave Cooling Lotion. The dual relief formula moisturizes and soothes skin while also acting as a light aftershave. Active minerals in the formula restore balance to the skin's pH and also prevent inflammation. Cooling agents Menthol and Tea Tree oil provide a cooling and revitalising feeling, leaving skin healthy and your mind awake. This product is also ideal as a daily facial moisturiser regardless of whether you have shaved or not. The protective formulation of Post Shave Cooling Lotion makes this an ideal addition to anyones winter grooming routine as this lotion also provides protection against harsh winds and outside pollution.
Simply apply a small amount to your hands, rub together and apply.
Simply apply a small amount to your hands, rub together and apply.
American Crew Classic Fragrance
No one wants to be the same as everyone else, and this fragrance is perfect for making that all important first impression, whether in a boardroom meeting, or out on the town, the unique fragrance from American Crew works in perfect harmony with all of the products in the American Crew range.
The subtle yet masculine fragrance is a firm favourite among ladies buying for their partners, and the unique fragrance is certain to raise attention to you.
With top notes of Mandarin and Grapefruit, Middle notes of Lavender and Rosemary and base notes of Sandalwood and Cleary Sage, this fragrance will never overpower, but will always show who's in charge and demand attention.
The subtle yet masculine fragrance is a firm favourite among ladies buying for their partners, and the unique fragrance is certain to raise attention to you.
With top notes of Mandarin and Grapefruit, Middle notes of Lavender and Rosemary and base notes of Sandalwood and Cleary Sage, this fragrance will never overpower, but will always show who's in charge and demand attention.