The Body Shop: One for the Boys

Some of you might remember my slightly awkward encounter with men in the customs office at Philadelphia Airport.  While they were (not so kindly) telling me that I wasn't being allowed into the country, two thoughts were flashing through my head.  They were: "No, I'm supposed to be in America this summer", and "that guy has seriously clear skin!" 

Well hello there...

 Admit it, we all notice people's spots, although MOST of us are too polite to say anything.  Skincare is easy - almost expected - for girls.  It's part of our routine; just like doing our eyebrows, cutting our hair and painting our nails.  But for guys...mention skin care to them and they'll either run a mile or laugh in your face.  

 Writing a review on men's skin care poses two problems.  Number one: I am not a   guy.  Number two: a lot of my male friends have one of the two above reactions.  Now listen here, guys.  Skin care does not mean you spend hours in front of a mirror, preening at how good you look.  It does not mean you're wearing make up or that you're vain.  It simply means you care about your skin.  'Skin care' is an umbrella term for shaving cream, face scrub and moisturiser.  And, unless you're doing that hairy Movember thing, shaving is as important to you as neat eyebrows are to us, correct?  I thought so.

Thankfully, I have two male friends who were willing to try out The Body Shop's range for men's skin.     Their Maca Root skin care range uses Brazil nut oil from Peru which helps to keep your skin smooth and loads it with nutrients.  During my afternoon at the Body Shop, I was told that the Maca Root range is especially popular with "big burly men on oil rigs" - probably because it protects their skin against harsh winds and the cold offshore.  And let's face it guys, you're a little simple, and this skin care range is no fuss and no frills: simply lather it on, and wash it off. Now to the products...

Tester A was given Maca Root Face Scrub and Maca Root Face Protector away with him.  Of the face scrub, he said: "I was able to get a closer shave when I used it in the morning, and my skin felt smoother throughout the week.  The scent wasn't as overpowering as other scrubs, and my pores felt a lot cleaner, too."  Seems to have gone down a treat.  Aside from a slightly less-masculine smell, the face protector made Tester A's skin "feel more moisturised for longer."  So Tester A was happy.

Tester B also tried the Maca Root Face Protector and said that, when used as a post-shave balm, it was "refreshing and not as greasy as other shaving balms, and that it smelt great."  Our guinea pig also took away with him some Maca Root Shave Cream which "smelt just as good" and which, according to the Body Shop, prepares skin for a smoother and closer shave.

So there you have it, men.  Take a trip to the Body Shop (or order online if you're self-concious), and take some pride in your skin.  So long, good looking ;)