Last month we had the pleasure of consulting with Eric Leaonardos, a local make-up specialist at Jackson Ruiz, about some basics regarding male skin care. This month we decided to try some of his recommendations and add a few of our own, to see what products we liked (and would opt to use regularly) and which ones we could probably live without (ratings are on a 5-star scale).

Facial Cleansers

Kiehl’s Milk, Honey and Almond Facial Scrub
This product came highly recommended from Leonardos and we easily understand why. Made from natural ingredients, Kiehl’s Milk, Honey and Almond Scrub has a cookie dough-like texture to it, with bits of almond that provide a unique exfoliant and milk and honey that effectively moisturize the skin. When applied to the face, the scrub does not dissolve or bubble in any way – instead it retains its integrity, acting more like a thin-layered paste. The true wonder however, comes when it is washed away. Perhaps an illusion – because it seemed almost too good to be true – it left our faces feeling totally renewed, as if layers of dead skin had been inconspicuously stripped away. In fact, our skin had never felt as silky and smooth as it did after using this product. Certainly a must-have for men, this scrub garnered 4.5 out of 5 stars. For more information, visit www.kiehls.com.

Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream
This cream is specially formulated to deeply cleanse, while also maintaining a proper pH to keep the skin from breaking down. As a result, it not considered a typical exfoliant, but rather a moisture-retaining emulsion. When mixed with water, the cleanser binds with oil and perspiration on the skin and lifts impurities from the pores using a pressing and rolling movement. The cream has an almost lotion-like texture to it, can be used with virtually any skin type and leaves the face feeling tingling and refreshed. This is a solid daily cleanser with hard science to back it up; 4 out 5 stars. For more information, visit www.drhauschka.com.

Fine Lines & Wrinkles

Nivea For Men Revitalizing Lotion Q10
Nivea For Men Revitalizing Lotion Q10 is a non-greasy, slightly scented formula enriched with vitamin E, SPF 15 and coenzyme Q10 (a natural antioxidant compound that helps restore energy and elasticity to skin cells). Much like xxxxx, this lotion helps eliminate the appearance of crow’s feet, fine facial lines and deep wrinkles on the forehead. A perfect time for application is immediately after a clean shave. Also, we let the lotion sink in before an early morning shower and our skin felt surprisingly hydrated and revitalized even hours later that day. With a potent antioxidant combination and sun protection built-in, this product is a wise choice for anyone looking to slow the signs of aging; 4 out of 5 stars. Nivea For Men Revitalizing Lotion Q10 is not yet available in stores; it will be on shelves starting October 2004. For more information, visit www.niveausa.com.