I've always found it to be true that men like a luxurious bathroom product just as much as women. For some reason, they often seem to feel emasculated by admitting to it. If, like me, you find that the men in your life have an uncanny knack for identifying and surreptitiously using your favourite scrubs, shampoos and body creams, buying them their own this Father's Day might prove to be a gift for everyone. I'd had enough when I found my beloved Clinique Body Oil Spritz squirrelled away in the back of the cupboard, half gone, and went in search of the best products to help men look and feel their best (and consequently stop the theft).
LAB Series Skincare for Men MAX LS Power V Lifting Serum (€69.50): For a more mature man, this serum is ideal. If fine lines and signs of aging are a concern, this keeps skin plumped and hydrated to minimise the classic signs of tired skin.
The Body Shop Maca Root Razor Relief (€15.95): Though a bare face is becoming rarer these days on account of the hipster resurgence of Victorian era fishermen's beards, those who do shave will appreciate this product. It's softly cooling, and instantly soothes any dreaded razor burn.
Molton Brown Re-charge Black Pepper SPORT Energising Body Scrub (€30): Men are naturally hairier and have oilier skin than women, making their skin more prone to congestion. This luxuriant scrub smells dreamy, and helps prevent ingrown hairs and breakouts on the body.
Clarins Men Super Moisture Gel (€38): Since men's skin is oilier than women's, heavy moisturisers can be uncomfortable and cause shine as the day progresses. This light gel hydrates skin without producing shine, and is absorbed immediately.
Clinique for Men Great Skin for Him Gift Bag (€40): Everyone loves a handy travel bag, and this one is as convenient as it is masculine. With an eye cream (you never know, he might try it), face wash and moisturiser suitable for even sensitive skins, it's a lovely gift.
L'Occitane Cade Gift Collection (€62): No one makes a gift box like L'Occitane. This beautiful set containing a Cade shower gel, fragrance and aftershave balm sings with the aromas of juniper oil, bergamot and pink pepper. It's perfect.
Bulldog Original Shave Cream (€4.99): I don't know one man who has tried this brand and disliked it. It might be the simple, pleasing packaging or the straightforward, fuss-free functionality of the products, but they're all affordable and effective – you can't choose badly.
Nivea Men Silver Protect Shower Gel (€4.09 for 500ml): For very active people, an antibacterial shower gel is a great idea. This one suits everyone, but the fragrance is woody and masculine. It's ideal for use after strenuous exercise.
Brisk Beard Oil (€9.99 from Boots):
If a man in your life is embracing facial fuzz, he’ll appreciate this beard oil (the cedarwood fragrance is my favourite). The packaging is frankly darling, and the oil will have his beard soft and fragrant as a freshly washed shirt.
