So…it’s almost Father’s Day and we’ll be honest, we have nothing lined up. We’re already juggling a million things, and then June comes along and adds one more task to our ‘to-do’ list. We’re not saying that Dad’s don’t deserve to have their day, it’s just that sometimes moms are tired of having to plan that, too.
In order to avoid a last-minute scramble to find, well, anything, I thought ahead and enlisted a secret shopper—my bestie, Daniel MacKinnon, creative director, avid jet-setter and men’s grooming expert—to do the legwork for me, and for you. He rounded up the grooming goodies that will make him look and feel all awesome. “Some guys may not admit it but they do enjoy a little pampering,” he says. “It can be as basic as using a good-looking razor that gets every little hair on your chin, or finding a non-smelly, refreshing face wash that your wife won’t be embarrassed to have on the bathroom counter.”
Here are his top 10 products that look as good as they perform. And, he says, “in my opinion they’re just as effective and nice to look at as products geared towards women, so don’t be surprised if you keep them for yourself.”
DANIEL’S TOP 10 GROOMING GIFTS
1.Maison Margiela Replica Across Sands Fragrance, $200
“Notes of agarwood (oud), oriental dates and exotic spices could easily be considered too masculine, but it’s a sophisticated fragrance that is versatile enough for any season, and could easily become a go-to, signature scent for him or for her.”
2. Kiehls Nourishing Beard Grooming Oil, $35
“Beards can be tricky so he’s going to need a good oil (trust me, I should know. I’ve had mine for over ten years). Without proper care, they can quickly start to look unkempt and he’ll need to stay on top of it. This one helps soften (no more beard-burn!) and condition whiskers to make grooming a snap.”
3. Schaf Radiance Firming Serum, $65
“He may wrinkle his brow at getting something that sounds like he doesn’t need, but if you or your hubbie haven’t discovered serums yet, now’s the time. Serums can pack a powerful punch (smaller molecules help them penetrate deeper into the skin) of vitamins and active ingredients that can make the difference between the huzz aging like Anderson Cooper, versus Val Kilmer. This serum is also 100 percent natural, made in Canada and free of parabens, sulphates, artificial colours, fragrance and many other unwanted ingredients.”
4. Biotherm Homme Total Recharge Revitalizing Wake-Up Cleanser
“It’s true, the kiddies jumping on dad’s tummy in the morning is also a fun wake-up trick, but we think he’ll prefer this rise-and-shine option a little better. Infused with mint this hardworking gel cleanser also uses Ginseng extract and vitamin C to help energize and tone even the most tired-looking skin.”
5. Consonant The Perfect Sunscreen SPF 30, $45
“Moms are always looking for healthy suncare options for the kids, but what about Dad? This 100 percent natural SPF delivers broad spectrum protection thanks to micronized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—both natural minerals. It also goes on with a finish that’s smooth and non-greasy.”
6. Malin + Goetz Rum Hand and Body Wash, $27
A multi-purpose cleanser, the ingredients contain powerful amino acids which deeply cleanse skin without making it feel dry. The delicious rum scent and thick rich lather will appeal to just about everyone (even Moms).
7. Anthony Glycolic Exfoliating & Resurfacing Facial Wipes, $24
“These facial wipes are convenient and effective, which in my books is a win-win. Perfect for removing grime from the gym or a long day at work, it’s also ideal for taking off sunscreen on those weekend trips to the cottage. Oh yeah, and they also help encourage cell turnover, smooth out skin tone and reduce pore-size.”
8. Valentino Uomo Acqua Valentino, $115
“This is perhaps the perfect new Summer fragrance. It’s light and pleasant with notes of mandarin, green tomatoes, sage and patchouli. The bottle is bold yet beautiful so you definitely won’t mind where the huzz leaves it lying around.”
9. Barber Pro Face Putty Black Peel-Off Mask with Activated Charcoal, $8.50
“Ok, I’ll admit, it might be hard to get him to try a face mask, but seriously, here’s where he should make an exception. This amazing line from the UK specializes in masks formulated for men and uses activated charcoal to helps target our more naturally oily skin without drying it out.”
10. IGK Broken Dreams Texture Paste, $32
“Dads will LOVE this one. This complex hair paste contains a mineral compound called Zeolite that adds a slight texture to strands, absorbs odours and excess oil and actually helps thin hair look thicker. Um. Yes. I am a huge fan, and if the huzz’s hair needs some heft, this will definitely help.”