The seasons may be changing, but there’s still a definite hint of summer heat in the air that has us searching for some relief. So, make the most of your grooming routine by keeping it chilled yet effective

SMOOTH AND SOOTHED
Nothing ruins a beautiful summer’s day quite like the stinging sensation of razor burn and the inevitable bumps that come with it. So, when in doubt, throw the razor out! You can have all the soothing pre- and post-shaving products under the sun, but if your razor is old and blunt, your shave simply won’t be smooth. Prep your skin well by washing and exfoliating your face to get rid of dry flakes and loosen the hairs. Once you’re done shaving, immediately apply an aftershave balm or lotion to add back and seal in moisture. Although some formulas might sting a little, the anti-bacterial properties will help to cleanse freshly shaved skin and seal off your pores to avoid infection. Remember that in order to achieve a clean shave, you have to warm up your skin first. Warm skin means your hair will be softer and easier to shave compared to cold skin, so take a towel and, after soaking it in warm water, press it to the skin until the area is warm and ready to be shaved. If your skin still feels sensitive and irritated after this, counteract it with a splash of cold water to contract the blood vessels again.
TRY: Nivea Men Sensitive Cooling After Shave Balm R129.95; ClarinsMen After Shave Soother R410

GOOD MORNING!
Rev up your shower routine by opting for an invigorating and awakening shower gel that will instantly cool you down, ensuring that you’ll start your day leaving a trail of freshness behind you. Once you’ve showered and removed any residual sweat and product build-up from your armpits, it’s time to apply a fresh coat of anti-perspirant. Don’tforget to apply the moisturiser, no matter how oily you think your skin might be. A mattifying, yet hydrating, formula will prevent your skin from turning into an oil slick throughout the day by tricking it into thinking it has already produced enough sebum. For an extra boost, keep your moisturiser in the fridge and apply it after a shower while your skin is still damp.
TRY: Nivea Men Cool Kick Shower Gel 24h Fresh Effect for Body, Face & Hair R68.95; Nivea Men 48h Stress Protect Anti-Perspirant Roll-On R27.95; L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic No Shine Quenching Gel R146.20; Clinique Moisture Surge Hydrating Supercharged Concentrate R850; Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex R315

Cool BreezeCOOLThe final step in your routine should be applying a good, clean fragrance that won’t overwhelm those around you. An eau de toilette is slightly lighter and less concentrated than an eau de parfum, making it more wearable in the warmer months. Think fresh notes of mint, lemon and oak moss such as Versace Eros Pour Homme (50 ml EDT R1 070), or something slightly warmer such as Azzaro Chrome (50 ml EDT R915), which boasts notes of white musk and amber along with more green and aquatic accords. For a sweeter scent, go with Burberry Brit Splash (100 ml EDT R1 270), which has top notes of honeydew melon and rosemary, and a heart of violet.
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