Perfect Shave Dispatch

Interview with Inventor of Cremo Cream, Michael Boone

2014-09-24T15:26:00.000-04:00

Mike Boone with his dogs Davis and Jackson

We recently spoke with inventor, businessman and serial entrepreneur, Mike Boone, creator and co-founder of Cremo Company, maker of Cremo Shaving Cream, Cremo Facial Wash, Cremo Facial Moisturizer and Lady Cremo Shave Cream.

A graduate of Stanford University and a former College Entrepreneur of the Year, Mike is renowned for making dry erase "white boards" into a familiar consumer products category; for his next act, he introduced random-flickering electronic candles (LED lights that imitate the light and ambience of flame) into the home-interior and restaurant marketplace, creating the category while developing the technology and the product line.

Boone Dry-Erase Board

When not thinking of new products to improve daily life, Mike is a sought-after interior decorator and landscape gardener. The multi-talented and tireless Southern California native also designs furniture, writes music, plays the piano and cello, sings, paints and bakes enthusiastically. Mike lives in Laguna Beach with his two dogs, Davis and Jackson.

1. So, after you’d already had a great success with Boone Boards, what was it that inspired you to formulate Cremo Cream and step out of retirement to enter the highly competitive health & beauty industry?

I shave every day. Most men and many women shave every day. Yet, I think most people feel about shaving the way I used to: I dreaded it! Not the ritual or the razors, but the cuts and the nicks, the redness and the irritation and the little squares of tissue on your face to stop the bleeding. As you know shaving takes time and attention and the supplies can be expensive! What’s worse, a bad shave can actually ruin your day. I tried every product I could find, regardless of price. I had complaints about all of them! Most I used only once and never again.

But in my mind, I knew the shave cream that I wanted: it would feel good, smell good and provide the lubrication needed for a close, smooth shave without the nicks, cuts and irritation that made shaving such an ordeal. And— working entirely backwards, I brainstormed the packaging, the branding vision and the performance proposition in one frenzied day of inspiration. Next, I consulted with distinguished cosmetic chemists as to whether such a shave cream were possible and, if so, what ingredients would be required to deliver the benefits I demanded. As I studied the science, I became more and convinced that my idea (which is all it was at first) could work. You see, the leading brands I examined— whether creams, foams, gels, soaps or liquids — weren’t using the ingredients or the chemistry required to achieve the close, non-irritating shave I now knew was possible. Instead, what the competition brought to the table was dazzling marketing and significant spending rather than the best ingredients or the right formulation. With Cremo, we put ingredients, chemistry and performance first.

I had just sold Boone International and I needed a new challenge. Though I’m an engineer by education and temperament, I’m also a consumer product and packaging nut: I decided that not only would my new shave cream deliver astonishing performance, it would also be well packaged and memorably branded. I worked for months with a team of cosmetic chemists, testing dozens of formulations and scores of fragrances. I relied on my sensitive nose and my sensitive skin to identify the ideal ingredient combination to lubricate the razor’s path and allow the closest shave of unwanted hair while moisturizing the skin, reducing inflammation and killing bacteria.

Even though Cremo began as my private obsession, I could see that it was also a good business. After spending nearly $50 thousand on the experiment, I told myself that if I never sold a single tube, at least I’d have shaving cream for life and great gifts for friends and company.

2) How, specifically, did you get started in the beauty, grooming and skin-care products business?

I knew I had to research and understand the science of shaving, if there was to be any chance of success. So I hired an all-star team of cosmetic chemists working in a state-of-the art laboratory to give me a crash course.

As a petroleum engineer by training, I had a sound basis in chemistry and frankly, I found the subject fascinating. I wanted to know how to protect and moisturize my skin. I wanted to understand how a sharp blade could pass over my sensitive skin and bony jaw-line without digging and cutting and abrading it. I wanted better products than were available on the shelf because I wanted to look better and shave more easily and with less frustration. I saw myself as merely one of thousands (or millions) of frustrated shavers searching for a better way.

Once I’d formulated Cremo and set up manufacturing to the highest level of quality, I began slowly to build an audience. I’d already tested it among my friends and acquaintances. We next sold to a couple of boutiques and began to attract online customers. All of this was very gratifying. I had accomplished what I set out to do. And soon we had some loyal customers and small, though steady sales!

3) What is it about Cremo that justifies the claim that it's astonishingly superior? Tell us a little bit about the Chemistry that's responsible for the performance that customers and shaving bloggers rave about?

Cremo Company's flagship product

Well, it really is at the micro level that Cremo performs differently and better than the competition. First of all, Cremo is not filled with air-bubbles, like most shaving foams and gels that produce lather. Rather Cremo is a dense, slippery cream that lubricates the passage of a sharp blade over your delicate skin.

With Cremo, the chemical magic comes in the form of a long, slippery, fatty molecule made from coconut oil. It’s a great lubricant that effectively coats the surface of the skin, so that the blade rides over the top of the skin cells, cutting hair follicles at their base, without digging into the space between each cell. When the chemists showed me how this worked, it made perfect sense. Incredibly, most leading brands don’t have the right molecular structure to keep the blade from tugging against the skin, which is what causes the abrasion, the nicks and the cuts.

With Cremo Cream, we use only what is necessary and proven to lubricate the razor’s motion, moisturize the skin, diminish inflammation and kill bacteria. We avoid exotic sounding and expensive trace ingredients which may sound good on the packaging, but don’t really contribute anything (apart from cost!) to the goal of delivering the closest, smoothest, least-irritating shave possible.

By the way, we do not do animal testing or use animal-derived ingredients. So Cremo is VEGAN and made almost entirely of ingredients that the Environmental Working Group labels “green” and which pose no risk to the body or its environment. You can read all about our ingredients on our website.

4) Many premium men's shaving creams retail for double and triple the price of Cremo. How do you manage to keep your prices so reasonable?

Most women know from experience that luxury skin products can cost a huge amount of money without a huge difference in performance over cheaper, widely available products. Male shoppers are only now learning this expensive lesson.

The cosmetics industry is really good at marketing and packaging and charging high prices. Nonetheless, as most dermatologists will tell you, the things that skin needs in terms of washing, grooming and moisturizing are not especially rare or expensive. You can pay $25, $30, $50 for a tube, tub or jar of shave cream. And you can get a can of foaming shave cream for a little over a buck. And they all work, to some degree, though some much better than others.

Most shavers prefer to spend as little as possible on shave cream in the belief that there is not that much difference in performance between the $2 can and the $25 tub. But that’s before they try Cremo. Many of our customers have already tried all the most expensive and exotic brands and are ready to spend a lot of money for a high-performing shaving cream. With Cremo, they don’t have to.

Customers routinely ask me how I can sell Cremo for a fraction of the price they paid for other products. My answer: through high volume, intelligent packaging, efficient manufacturing, the right ingredients and minimal marketing and advertising costs. We’ve grown primarily through word of mouth (the original social network), our 100 % rebate program and the recommendations of our amazing customers.

Although it seems to me that male shavers tend to under-spend on shave cream and over-spend on blades, there are customers who balk at $8 for our full-sized tube of shaving cream. But it’s these same customers who write us to say how amazed they are that they got 90 astonishing shaves from a 6 oz tube; furthermore, they find themselves buying less of those expensive razor cartridges — not to mention Band-Aids.

I believe that when you take into consideration the total cost of shaving in terms of cream, blades, time, convenience, results and the absence of nicks, cuts and misery from the daily ritual, Cremo is competitive with the lowest-priced shaving creams on the shelf. I really do.

5) What other products does Cremo make and distribute?

We make Cremo Face Wash; we make Cremo Facial Moisturizer and we make Lady Cremo.

Cremo has added more true-and-tested products to their line

As a consumer products fanatic, I’m very conservative about introducing new products. I want to make sure that whatever carries the Cremo logo will be superior to what’s available in the marketplace in terms of quality and value. Since we can’t “buy our way” to market position, we’ve got to earn it.

Our moisturizer came first. There is so much competition in this space that I went through dozens of test versions. I wanted it to be light and non-greasy yet moisturizing and quick-absorbing. We studied the world's costliest face moisturizers and worked with some of the very chemists who developed them. We studied what features and benefits most people wished they could have if they only had one product to use each day.

Our Cremo Moisturizer had to be minimally scented and include all the nourishment that skin cells need. I’m very proud of what we came up with. I used to use a product that cost $60 for an ounce. Now I use Cremo Moisturizer and get better results!

Our Cremo Facial Wash is unscented, soap-free, film-free, PH neutral and non-stinging. It cleans without stripping the skin of its moisture and leaving it dry. Like our moisturizer, you can use it all over your body, not just on your face.

Lastly, or perhaps, I should say, firstly, there is Lady Cremo. It’s made with same lubricating, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients as our Men’s Original Shave cream, but with a different fragrance. In fact, Lady Cremo features the scent that we first chose for Cremo Shave Cream, a tropical blend of pineapple and coconut, again, as mild as possible. Many of our male customers buy Lady Cremo because of the way it smells.

Oh yeah, my customer service team asked me to mention that we also make a 3 oz, TSA compliant Travel-Tube of Original Men’s Cremo as well as a 1 oz trial-sized tube. We get inquiries every day looking for a travel tube. We sell them on our website.

5A) How did you go about formulating those products? What vision/goals/objectives inspired you? How did you know when you had a great product that people would buy and love?

As I described above, I worked with and learned from a team of brilliant cosmetic chemists. My vision was to make products that I would want to use; products that performed to the level I demanded, and as anyone who knows me can attest, I am very particular about scent, consistency, packaging, and most of all, performance. I wanted to simplify the shaving experience and make it predictable and pleasant. With Cremo, you don’t need shave oil to begin and you don’t need after-shave to conclude. We formulated Cremo to include those properties.

I wanted to give customers a formula for grooming and skin care that was easy to understand and follow. Wash with Cremo; shave with Cremo; moisturize with Cremo. Then go out and live your life knowing your skin looks great and feels great.

5B) What other products are you considering?

We recently asked our knowledgeable, well-informed and incredibly generous Cremo customers to tell us what they wanted in the way of products and packaging. We got great responses, some of which confirmed our own ideas; some which took us in entirely new directions.

Based on customer feedback and a review of the marketplace, these are products we are considering for development:

Menthol Cremo
Cremo Moisturizer with SPF
Cremo Lip Balm – this will be the first out of the gate. Look for it in October of 2014.
Cremo Cream in a family size bottle with pump action.
Cremo Shampoo
Cremo Body Wash

Any suggestions for us? Drop us a note at inbox@cremocompany.com

6) I'm told that you love product marketing above all other aspects of your business. Why is that? What is your philosophy for marketing to likely consumers and positioning your brand for maximum appeal?

I went to college to study Petroleum Engineering with the promise of a job waiting for after I graduated. But I wasn’t passionate about it. Even though I love science and approach things like an engineer, I’m also visually creative, design obsessed and verbal. I’m very affected by the way things look as well as how they perform. I suppose, that I found marketing –which is about presentation, positioning and communication – to be an outlet for creative problem solving. There’s no one way, right way or correct way to do things. Many approaches will work; many won’t. There’s some trial and error, of course, but also instinct and intuition. I love that. You’re dealing with people and preferences so it’s challenging and dynamic—every day is a different opportunity. It’s exciting.

With respect to our marketing philosophy for Cremo, I wanted our brand to represent old-fashioned value, quality and performance over hype and faddishness. I chose the packaging to evoke the look of products you might have bought in an apothecary in the 1930’s. We wanted our products to look serious and trustworthy, because they are serious and trustworthy. Recently, we conducted some research among our customers, asking them about their media choices and their advertising and marketing preferences. I was thrilled to learn that they saw us as an “adult” product; a substantial product that is marketed on the basis of quality, value, science and performance, not sex-appeal or trendiness or celebrity endorsers.

I think who we are as a brand and as a company is the real thing. We invite you to buy our product because it works, it delivers value, it’s reliable. We respect our customers and they appreciate that. We give them information and we guarantee our performance, with a 100% rebate program and personalized customer service. My goal is to make it easier for consumers to discover us, because once they do, many of them become our customers for life.

7) What's new/next for Cremo?

We just debuted in Target, in August of 2014. I believe we’ll be available on the shelves of Rite-Aid in early 2015. When you add in Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, Bed Bath & Beyond and dozens of grocery and pharmacy chains around the country, that’s more than 20,000 points of distribution nationwide. I think we’re going to increase our outreach to make sure that sensitive shavers, problem shavers, and shavers who want reliable performance, know about us. And, we also are working hard to expand the distribution of our superb Cremo Moisturizer, Cremo Facial Wash and Lady Cremo Shave Cream!

Women buy most of the consumer products in the country. And almost daily, I hear from wives and mothers, telling us how much their husbands and sons love Cremo. We always respond by asking whether they’ve tried Cremo for themselves, inviting them to experience the benefits the men in their households are enjoying. All our products are for human skin—whether male or female, teenaged or over 60.

8) What is your role at Cremo?

One of my rules as an entrepreneur is to “fire myself” as soon as the company reaches a certain size. I love the start up phase: invention, marketing and thinking strategically about the company’s future. But I’m less keen on the day-to-day operations stuff. So now, I think of myself as the rain-maker and the problem solver. I work on marketing, on packaging and on product development, mainly as a critical eye and as a resource.

You see, I’m lucky to have a brilliant, motivated partner who manages all aspects of the business. And, we have a great, small team that handles all operational responsibilities.
In the early days, I only sold Cremo Shave Cream (boxed and shipped from my very own garage — we were that small!) to just a few small accounts and online customers, I was pre-occupied with other projects and let Cremo float along. But I had a friend, a Wharton MBA in fact, who was looking for a new challenge, and saw the potential in Cremo. So, we decided to partner to see whether we could aggressively build and grow the business. Kyle Schroeder, my co-founder and our president, was confident we could get national distribution and take Cremo to the next level. I welcomed his energy, his financial and business savvy and his willingness to actually run the business day to day. Under his leadership, we’ve achieved incredible results. First CVS, then Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Walgreens, dozens of grocery and pharmacy chains, and now, Target, with Rite-Aid on the horizon. My little company has become a national brand and I’m thrilled to supervise and consult rather than report to the office everyday. (I did that already!)

9) How do you get the best shave possible? (Your method/process.)

I like to shave in the shower. I first run very hot water over my chin and neck while rubbing my face with my hands for about 30 seconds to soften my beard. I squeeze an almond sized dollop of Cremo onto my finger tips then rub it into my whiskers until a light lather comes up. I shave with the grain first, then, using the cream already on my face, smear that around and shave against the grain. I go back and forth over trouble spots smearing more Cremo where it’s needed before re-passing with the blade. I use the Dorco Pace 6+1 razor and our new fog free mirror that sticks to the shower wall, which is now available at Target.

Beards and Moustaches: from Antique Symbolism to Movember Awareness

2013-11-06T11:08:00.002-05:00

As CBC’s Mike Miner aptly put it “Have you noticed that lately you can't swing a banjo without hitting some bearded guy in the vest? [...] Old timey is everywhere these days…” The beard-mo combo is back, and no time of the year will we see so many growing whiskers as during November.

It is important to keep in mind what Movember is all about. It has turned into a social phenomenon, and its cool factor has all but overshadowed its purpose of bringing awareness about male cancers (prostate and testicular), though the number of us who donate to the cause and get involved has risen exponentially.

And though a beard in 2013, or during November 2013, might have a very specific purpose and meaning, beards are as old as mankind, and their significance has always been pointed (even if the shape of the actual beard is not always).

"The Beard Does Not Make the Sage" but Does it Make Him more Attractive?

While for some men grooming is strictly related to shaving the facial hair off, for others this term is synonymous to maintaining a virile look unique to their gender. When appropriate for the face, never neglected but properly looked after, the beard with the incorporated moustache can accentuate one's features especially by its neat, well-preserved symmetry. Believe it or not, the meaning of the facial hair follicles has changed over time. From a sign of wisdom, of masculinity, of sexual virility or high status, dominance and honor.

More than symmetry

The ancient civilizations were lacking the modern, sharp, multifunctional tools specialized in both moustache and goatee grooming. Without using luxurious razors like Merkur, professional scissors like Dovo or Pfeilring, they probably struggled to manage the perfect trimming. The Dr. Dittmar Genuine Horn Handmade Moustache Comb also makes a stylish, good acquisition when trying to tame the rougher hair and getting it ready for its cut. Crazy imaginative as he was, probably one of the best examples said to have used the Dr. Dittmar trusted brand was Salvador Dali, who sure made history with his iconic moustache.

As undeveloped as they seem now, looking at the past civilizations we can learn a thing or two about grooming. The Mesopotamian one devoted great care to oiling while the Greek are said to have shaved their beards off only as a sign of mourning. I wonder what the Ancient Egyptians would think about the Clubman Moustache Wax? In their times, the beard was seen as a symbol of sovereignty so it had to be dyed or hennaed to reflect the high rank. Getting their hands on the Clubman easy to use kit in Neutral, Black, Brown or Chestnut, they would probably get even more creative! The product safe to use on moustaches as well as sideburns, beards or eyebrows uses natural coconut oil which adds volume and a unique character in defining a stylish look.

November with a ‘Mo’

Just like beards are no longer the defining characteristics of philosophers, modern times have given new meanings to the beard-moustache combination. Growing a ‘mo’ during the month of November is not only embracing a new look but a sign of raising awareness and showing solidarity in the fight against prostate cancer. Participating in Movember’s mission, more and more men have spread the message and entered winter (December) with a fully-grown moustache.

With Movember 2013 already here, you too can support the cause and show solidarity with a well-groomed moustache! It’s not too late!

Sheaffer Ballpoint Pens: The History of a Versatile Invention

2013-09-26T13:38:00.002-04:00

From classic to elite

The classic ballpoint pen was transformed into a luxurious writing utensil in the 1950s. Sheaffer's first masterpiece called RA-1 Stratowriter was introduced to the public in 1946 and it enjoyed a spectacular success due to its sleek metal design and its ultra fine writing performance. The new age models do not lack the impact that the first Sheaffer ballpoint pen managed to create.

Crafted to fit contemporary preferences, these high quality writing instruments included in precious collections such as Sheaffer Intensity, Sheaffer Prelude or Sheaffer Sagaris still maintain the art of an old writing tradition.

The history and invention of the ballpoint pen

Relying upon the rolling action of a tiny ball which allows a quick drying ink to flow and form words, the first ballpoint pen was designed as a cleaner, convenient alternative to quill or fountain pens. The prototype which led to the quality ballpoint pens of today—popularized by Sheaffer in America in the 1950s— was invented by Hungarian editor Laszlo Biro, who used the same type of ink as the one used for newspaper printing. Nowadays the ballpoint pen is the dominating writing instrument. With both disposable and refillable models, the so-called ''biro'' inscribes the paper effortlessly with superior, ultra fine lines.

Ballpoint facts — User-friendly, practical, portable

Have you ever wondered about the mechanism behind the quality ballpoint pen you write with daily? The secret of the writing ''ball point'' starts with the three main components: a freely-rotating ball at the pen's writing end, a socket which holds the tiny ball in place and the ink reservoir which supplies ink to the ball. The distinctive point may vary in diameter. Regardless, the ball which gave the pen its name controls the rate of ink flow and prevents the ink from drying. Described as user-friendly, practical and portable, modern ballpoint pens are loyal writing companions with a shelf-life of two years on average.

Remember the high-tech ink pen and enjoy a smooth writing performance through the variety of Sheaffer ballpoint pens.

The New-Gen Synthetic Shaving Brush: surprising performance from a vegan brush

2013-08-12T15:11:00.001-04:00

Ever since its conception, the synthetic shaving brush was considered an optimal solution to an overload in badger hair demand as well as an ethical choice promoting environmental responsibility. The cruelty-free product not only looks like its animal-hair counterpart but also mimics valuable characteristics such as the softness of the fiber tips or their rich lather-making capabilities. Designed for both the newbie and the expert in wet shaving, the synthetic shaving brush is a new age alternative which aims to maintain the flair of a manly, everyday ritual.

When choosing a synthetic shaving brush, the comparison to the animal product is almost inevitable. Of course, many of the wet-shave enthusiasts are used to brushes made of boar hair, horse hair or the superior badger hair. However, if you are not picking vegan to limit your use of animal products, the parallel between artificial and natural should focus exclusively on performance.

Aside from the previously mentioned soft fiber tips and lather-making properties, the synthetic shaving brush can be described as fast-drying, economical in the use of shaving soap or cream and lightweight. The contemporary designs still guarantee unique craftsmanship, combining a sturdy handle with a selection of synthetic shaving brush bristles to fit every man's preferences. While respecting animal rights, these brushes are also considered an affordable, durable alternative when traveling. Established and newer brands known for their effective synthetic creations are Omega, H.I.S., Muhle and Edwin Jagger.

When looking for the best synthetic brush try the Omega Soft-as-Badger Synthetic Shaving Brush. This impeccable tool delivers a great wet-shaving experience while showcasing Italian artistry in its selection of first-class materials. Another affordable, completely vegan option, which will improve your morning ritual is the H.I.S. Synthetic Silvertip Synthetic brush.

Pick a quality product when comparing the performance of a synthetic brush to its badger peer. Choose Muhle synthetic brushes and experience the best results with a German expert which will not disappoint. The Muhle Silvertip Fibre Shaving Brush—available in small, medium, large or extra large knot diameters— is said to have more backbone compared to any other synthetic options. Great variety, together with the top performance and sophistication of handmade products are what the Edwin Jagger Synthetic Silvertip Fibre Handmade English Shaving Brushes line is appreciated for.

Go vegan if you feel it's the right choice and test the performance of a synthetic shaving brush if you are not yet convinced; you will be pleasantly surprised.

Shaving Gel vs. Foam

2013-07-18T12:31:00.002-04:00

With all the different shaving lubricants available on the market, it may get confusing to determine what the difference truly is between all of them. To simplify it, all shaving variants are designed to fulfill the exact same purpose: to aid the shaving process and to produce a clean and close shave. Both shaving foam and gel help prevent stubble from drying up and make the beard stiff during shaving. They are basically the safety cushion between your razor and your skin. Shaving foam and gel are both considered shaving creams but the key difference lies in the composition; the former coming in a foam-like texture while the latter in gel form.

So which is the best for you?

Truth be told, it is to its greatest extent a personal preference. The best shaving foam for men or the best shaving gel is often subjective and depending on what a man looks for the most while shaving.

SHAVING FOAM vs. SHAVING GEL

If you have not yet figured out which shaving lubricant suits your personal preference best, presented below is a detailed comparison between these two products. We’ll also weigh in on classic shaving creams.

Shaving foam is stored in an aerosol dispenser and comes out of the can in lather-like form and is ready to use right away. Shaving gel on the other hand needs to be lathered up first with one’s fingers before it can be applied on the skin. Also, gel does not provide a rich lather as compared to its foamy counterpart. If it is important to your shaving experience to have rich, thick lather then foam may be better for you.
Shaving gel is more transparent as compared to foam. This enables you to see where and what exactly you are shaving. If you have a well-defined beard with lines, then this type of shaving product may be more convenient so you can better see what parts of your face you are shaving so as not to destroy the shape of your beard. If you just simply want a clean shave of your entire face, shaving foam will not pose a problem as you will not miss out any patches since you can still see the stubble clearly against the white foam.
Men’s shaving gel is usually more expensive than shaving foam but the advantage is that you need less of the product during the shave. In fact, an area that requires a lot of foam to cover requires a much smaller amount of gel. Hence, a can of gel tends to last longer than a can of foam.
Due to the texture of gel, it tends to clog the razor more which requires you to rinse your razor more often during the shaving process. Shaving foam for men on the other hand requires less rinsing.
Men who are fans of shaving gel claim that the shaving process is more effective and faster. This is because the gel doesn’t dry up unlike foam, which you may have to reapply during shaving.
Most men say that shaving gel works better for thick hair as compared to foam.

The Classic Shaving Cream

There are many men who don’t use shaving gel or foam from the aerosol bottle but prefer to use the kind of classic shaving cream that usually comes in a tube or tub which is then applied with a brush unto the face. Most men say that cream is much slicker and provides a significantly better shaving experience as compared to either foam or gel. It is also healthier for the skin and leaves it feeling fresh and clean. You must however learn how to properly lather up the cream and learn how to apply it on your face correctly with a brush. Many men who have used classic shaving cream find no reason to go back to foam or gel.

Choosing the Right Products

As said earlier, whether you use shaving gel or foam is ultimately your personal choice. In choosing the best product, it is important to go for those with little or no alcohol as these tend to dry up the skin and cause irritation. The best shaving lubricants are those that contain ingredients that not only protect your skin but also soothe and repair it. They provide moisture to keep your face soft and vibrant.

Photo by Clearly Ambiguous. Used under Creative Commons license: Attribution 2.0 Generic

Talcum Powder: The Grandfather of Antiperspirants

2013-06-21T15:38:00.000-04:00

Roberts Borotalco, gaining converts since 1874

Have you ever wondered how athletes used to keep their skin dry and fresh before the debut of modern personal hygiene products like the deodorant? In an environment where bodily secretions will naturally occur, these gentlemen needed a product that had the ability to keep their skin dry for a long time. Searching nature for an antidote to their freshness problem, an extremely soft mineral provided them with a dusty, light solution: talcum powder.

What is Talcum Powder?

Talcum powder for men is a delicate natural product, purified after its extraction from the ground. It has the primary role of absorbing moisture, cooling the skin, and giving it a smooth sensation. The fresh smell and the fact that it reduced the risk of rashes were another two reasons for the "grandfather of antiperspirants" to become a success not only among athletes. Popular with prestigious lines of men toiletries, the fine grains were also fashioned into shave talc, neutral on the face, used to control shine and prevent razor bumps.

The comeback of a classic?

Two of the finest names in men grooming count this staple as part of their lines. You can recognize the Clubman Pinaud Finest Talc Powder by its logo featuring the stylish gent. Besides the recognized functions, this particular formula is said to bring you the smell of "leisure Sundays". Featured on the Jay Leno Show in a Nike commercial, the Clubman product still gets some air time, one way or another.

Taylor of Old Bond Street Luxury Talcum Powder is another heavy name referred to as "the best men's talcum powder in the business". This one made an appearance opposite George Clooney in the football movie Leatherheads. Lightly scented, the vintage luxury is mostly appreciated in its sandalwood version.

Use the grandfather of antiperspirants as a natural, fresh solution with an old-school vibe. Choose from the best talcum powder brands available on the market today.

Soap on a Rope: an iconic grooming staple for men

2013-06-12T10:13:00.000-04:00

Klar Seifen Soap on a Rope

With a name resembling a catchy nursery rhyme, retro soap on a rope has attracted a worldwide clientele appreciating its individualizing feature: a handy cotton loop the user can put around his wrist preventing the wet, slippery bar from falling. The unconventional attachment also helped the soap dry faster and last longer. From an item of novelty to a very popular gift on Father's Day during the 1980s, the creamy invention remains ideal for the man on the move who likes to spoil himself like an aristocrat.

Presumably created by the British company Design House of Dana, the secure, hygienic product was originally called “shower soap with cord". Even if created by a UK lather company, two other giants in the grooming world are among the famous promoters of this out-of-the-ordinary bar.

Portuguese brand Musgo Real initially conceived their recipe of soap on a rope for men and dedicated it to the fastidious European aristocrats. The hand-made, preservative-free formula combines an imperial lather with an inviting scent reminding of rich coconut, woody oak moss or spicy orange amber.

Another expert offering this handmade luxurious item is the German manufacturer Klar. In the myriad of exclusive products made only from the best ingredients, the classy ivory rope is also present. Klar has also added to the mix the soothing properties of bergamot, grapefruit, lavender or rosemary.

It’s not just about keeping your soap bar at hand. Buy soap on a rope for a first-class bathing experience.

Montegrappa Refills: Timeless Calligraphy Meets Modern Convenience

2013-06-05T11:00:00.000-04:00

Looking at old ink-scribbled documents, we find handwritten messages imbued in a romanticism lacking in modern times. The precious liquid covering the blank pages with meaning was once a rarity as was the gift of writing. With the invention of the fountain pen, writing with ink became easier, more flexible in terms of refilling options and more diverse in colors and properties.

Until the 1900s, when the two most famous options for ink pen refills were invented — ink converters and ink cartridges — scribes and writers were left with cumbersome methods for recharging their pens. Fountain pens were not initially coupled with specially designed ink as ballpoint pens or gel pens are.

The modern plastic ink cartridge came to replace the self-filling system of the fountain pen in 1950. Designed to be easy to switch and portable, the small ink container was primarily issued in its so-called "international" size. The ink bottle was always seen as the more economical, eco-friendly option ever since the invention of the converter. Even with less portability, the bottle was preferred for the wider selection of ink colors and higher ink capacity it had.

Montegrappa pen refills and ink bottles

Spanning a variety of colors including black, blue, bordeaux and turquoise, the Montegrappa refills available both in bottle or cartridge option, maintain the history and romanticism of a high-quality Italian ink. The 8-sided bottles have the vintage appearance of their 1912 design, remembering the time when they were the means of communication for World War II soldiers writing their letters home. Born in the country of the most famous couple, Romeo and Juliet, the inspiring, rich colors of Montegrappa are also said to be a symbol of passion.

Personalize your documents, write your own history and never run out of words with the distinctive Montegrappa ink bottles or with the practical Montegrappa ink cartridges.

Choosing a Perfect Gift for Dad: 5+ Top Father’s Day Gifts

2013-05-29T15:50:00.001-04:00

With Father’s Day just around the corner, you find yourself once again on the hunt for that perfect gift. Although there is no one-size-fits-all type of present, there are certain things that every dad could need or want. Listed below are seven gift categories every dad would love to receive something from.

Leather Products. Men love all things leather. It is a truly timeless material that never goes out of style. Whether going for a classic or modern look, leather simply has panache. You can surprise your dad with a high quality leather bag, be it a briefcase, travel bag, laptop bag or dopp kit. Leather wallets and belts are also a great idea.

Sonnenleder Leather Toiletry Bag
Men’s Fragrances. Not all men may keep a stack of toiletries, fancy lotions and pampering products but gentlemen of all walks of life, whether tough or refined, have one thing in common: men love to wear good cologne. For many men, choosing the right scent is as much of a science as it is an art as they study all sorts of notes from bergamot, cypress and tarragon to cedar, moss, lime and mandarin. If you are not sure what scent your father loves the most, you can buy him a fragrance set like the Geo F. Trumper Cologne Gift Set which contains four different fragrances adored by men.

Castle Forbes Gentlemen's Cologne
Shaving Essentials. Every man needs to shave and it is a grooming task that is repeated more often than any other. This means that men can always need shaving products from shaving oil, shaving cream and aftershave to proper shaving accessories, brushes and razors. You can surprise your dad with an entire set of shaving essentials from the prep to the post.

Muhle Stylo 3-Piece Shaving Set
Writing Instruments. This is not the most common Father’s Day gift that people would think about. However, a high-end, quality pen can always come in handy and it symbolizes various desirable qualities. If your dad is a working man or a writer, these can be especially useful. Fine writing instruments such as from Montegrappa and Aurora for instance are fountain pens valuable enough to stand as status symbols. Sheaffer ballpoint pens are also some of the best pens in the world.

Sheaffer Ferrari Fountain Pen
Toys for Big Boys. These don’t necessarily have to be sports cars and helicopters. Think about equipment that your dad may need to make things easier for him. Think about efficiency. This includes to name a few, a Leatherman Rebar tool which contains needlenose pliers, wire cutters, screw drivers, bottle openers and a dozen other tools, all in one. Depending on his hobby and activity, your dad may also need, perhaps a chainsaw, a complete tool kit, a more efficient lawn mower, a new drill, a barbeque grill or some rare KIYA kitchen knives. Since Father’s Day in Canada is usually celebrated by get-togethers, why not bring some kebbs, sausages or steak and try out the grill on that very day!

KIYA Umeji Kitchen Knife

Still need more ideas? Try these extra two:

Jewelry, Timepieces and Accessories. Most men don’t accessorize much. They usually wear a limited amount of jewelry pieces at any point in time. The most prized accessory of any man is his timepiece. Having a few designer watches is always a great thing to have as a man, and they don’t necessarily have to be the most luxurious and expensive. Other kinds of jewelry that men occasionally wear are necklaces and sometimes bracelets. Accessories may include cufflinks, fedoras and other hats, sunglasses, reading glasses and more.

Gift Certificates. If you are out of time and absolutely clueless of what to give your father, you can always give him a gift certificate. In that way, he can buy himself whatever he wants. Fendrihan gift certificates for instance come in different values where your dad can shop for high-end male essentials, leather products and more. If you are celebrating Father’s Day in Canada, Fendrihan offers free shipping within Canada for all orders over $50. Also check out some Father’s Day cards to give along with the gift certificate to make it more personal.

No matter what gift you give your dad this Father’s Day, you cannot go wrong by choosing one from the categories above. If you have already given your dad one too many neckties or cognac bottles, it is definitely time for something new.

Shampoo for Men: Advertising Strategy or The Real Deal?

2013-05-17T14:44:00.001-04:00

Used for cleaning, nourishing and removing excess oil, a bottle of shampoo is a must-have in everyone's bathroom. Although both genders recognize the importance of this grooming product, they might make their buying choices based on packaging or advertising rather than on research. After all "hair is just hair", right? But looking closer at the hair follicle and analyzing scalp issues, should provide a clear answer to why gentlemen should be using a masculine geared line.

How To Choose a Men's Shampoo

"Champo" is the Hindi word for massaging the scalp with oils. Ever since ancient times the two genders picked out formulas, individualized by smell. Unfortunately, most buyers nowadays believe that scent still remains the main and only difference. While the richer, woodier notes differentiate a product made for men, as well as the packaging in darker, bolder colours that’s not all there is to it. Men have thicker, oilier skin due to the production of testosterone. With this imperative particularity, they are more prone to have a sensitive, irritated scalp than women are. Picking out a hair thickening shampoo for men will always give you better results than any volumizing shampoo stolen from your wife’s shelf.

Favorite Shampoos for Men’s Hair

With men-only formulas bringing numerous benefits, gentlemen should pick a men shampoo according to their hair type. Remember that even if the bottle in your shopping bag claims to be the best shampoo for men, choosing something that is not targeted to your specific hair type can alter the shape and texture of your hair, causing scalp issues at the same time.

An inspired decision satisfying the pickiest preferences, the luxurious line of Taylor of Bond Street may be exactly what you need. Known to be used by professional barber shops in the British capital city, the special formula adds density by infusing moisture into the hair follicle. While using this nutritious cream, you will be spoiled with subtle, complex scents where the main notes combine lavender, rose, sandalwood or cedar.

Another brand that helps create luster with nature-based products is Anthony Logistics for Men. With ingredients like coconut, chamomile, peppermint or wheat protein, this everyday treat promises healthy sheen as well as style control.

Take care of your hair with Speick, a German expert that equals a healthy scalp and shiny hair. Using the extracts of the rare plant cultivated in the Austrian Alps, the Men's Shower Gel and Shampoo invigorates and pampers using only the power of nature.

The grand variety of shampoos for men covers all hair issues; remember, not all battles are fought exclusively against dandruff. If you are recommended products for oily hair or a hair loss shampoo for men, it is important to combat these enemies to obtain healthy results. The eShave Triple Action Shampoo with Orange Mint is a good candidate, removing both oil buildup and assuring volume. With the freshness of orange and peppermint, and a boost of caffeine, you can safely mark both problems as ‘solved’.

Shampoos for men are created by experts who understand that the hair differences between the two genders don't lie in advertising masculine scents or darker colours. Choose the proper care through professional products developed for men's hair and skin.

Facial Hair Trends

2013-05-16T13:11:00.001-04:00

The Changing Face of Facial Hair

Nearly 50% of men who participated in a survey said they don't need to be clean shaven to be well groomed. Over the decades, trends in facial hair have changed dramatically. Think about the iconic 1970s era moustache; it would seem out of place in the 21st century. Likewise, stubble from the "Miami Vice" days and the all-too-recent "soul patch" seem to have found their way into facial hair obscurity. However, some facial hair seems to be preferred by many men who believe that grooming doesn't necessarily mean shaving. For those men, using the right products for a neat moustache or other facial hair is essential. Learn more about how today's man really feels about his facial hair here.

Body Scrub for Men: Why Use It and How To Choose One

2013-05-06T14:50:00.000-04:00

Easy exfoliation for all skin types: The Anthony Logistics for Men Mud Scrub Exfoliating Bar

Exfoliating scrub is one of the most popular pampering techniques for smoothing and hydrating from head to toe. Cleaning the skin from impurities, the refreshing experience combines numerous advantages in its gentle yet powerful micro-particles. Inspired by formulations used in spas, the grooming gurus of today have created a variety of exfoliating scrubs for everyday use.

Exfoliating Products for Men

How do body scrubs work? Ingredients like salt, sugar, coffee grounds or rice bran are usually employed as moderately abrasive grains. Aside from these exfoliating particles, the product’s reconditioning properties come from invigorating aromatic oils. The balanced proportions of the ingredients, most of the time 100% natural, help detoxify the skin without reducing its natural moisture. After a fast and easy use, the result will always be softer, brighter skin.

Picking a natural body scrub from a first class masculine brand, you are guaranteed to get no sandpaper feeling even if you decide to use it on your face. However, if you are not a risk taker, focus either on products labeled ''facial scrub'', ''masks'' or on the smooth lather of an exfoliating soap bar. A mixture which combines the purest organic ingredients among which the invigorating green tea and the mild hibiscus flower is the Lucky Tiger face scrub. Applied with regularity, the easy to use product with polishing skin quality promises a smoother, brighter skin.

When choosing among an exfoliating soap bar, a facial or a body scrub, remember to focus on your skin type rather than on scent alone. You cannot go wrong with the Anthony Logistics for Men Mud Scrub Exfoliating Bar: it fits all skin types and invigorates the skin due to its mixture of Dead Sea mud combined with oat meal extract. The same brand offers variations in natural revitalizing body scrubs geared to a man's skin.

Spoil yourself from head to toe, release the tension with an easy to use spa treatment at home.

Merkur: The God of Modern DE Shave

2013-04-08T14:06:00.001-04:00

Truly remarkable in its field, Merkur perfected shaving culture offering sophisticated reliability with every polished sharp-edged blade. Through versatile equipment, superbly designed for a pleasurable masculine task, this instantly-recognized name matches the need of beginners and experts alike. Merkur developed eminence, preserving the meticulous precision of DOVO, the knight in shiny armor, as well as the expertise associated to the town of cutlery, Solingen. A subsidiary born of Dovo’s ''Masterpieces in Steel'', Merkur’s wet-shaving products work their wonders on whiskers all over the world.

Merkur was the Roman God of trade, a charming messenger with winged sandals. Double Edged Razors like the Merkur 34C HD, Merkur 38 C or Merkur 23 C underline more than the legendary old world quality or the use of the very best materials. Fitting their fine blades into their precision shavers you will get the best trade: the ideal accessory for the smoothest, closest shave possible. Described as the ''epiphany of tremendous shaving'', the logo using the flying Roman figure is an attractive metaphor for a divine performance.

''Stretch your wings'' and begin a new day refreshed and well groomed

Start with the Merkur HD 34 C Double Edge Safety Razor if you are new to the art of wet shaving and pick the Gold Plated version if you want to impress with a truly attractive and functional present. The Merkur 38 C range incorporates classic pieces, hefty, promising excellent maneuverability. More than that, the handle of these masterful creations comes in black, blue, red or elegant matte chrome. Even if all these sleek products are easy to use, the Merkur 23 C model has individualized itself through a longer handle for a better grip and extra control. Appropriate for every beard type, the Merkur razor line covers the problem of sensitive skin, the trimming in areas that are difficult to reach, or the issue of thicker hair.

Trust in the Roman God with winged sandals and get the best trade: the perfect shave, just by choosing the reliable Merkur double edge razors.

Clubman Aftershaves: not just a scent, but a statement of intention

2013-03-27T09:12:00.000-04:00

The Edouard Pinaud exhibit at the 1904 World's Fair.

A splash of aftershave minutes after the sharp blade has polished your face to smooth and soft is definitely a great finish to a timeless ritual. No matter if we think about the classic or the modern version of the dapper gentlemen, applying men’s aftershave is one of the male body grooming highlights completing the art of manliness. A story of immortal notes, born in the capital of sophistication, Paris, Clubman aftershave has enchanted the royal court of Napoleon the 3rd, expanding to reach the common man looking for some straight up masculine quality.

The wizard behind the mysterious blends, Eduard Pinaud opened the perfumery “House of Pinaud” 202 years ago, in the center of the French capital city. His aim was to appeal to the elaborate gentleman, looking for a “statement of intention” rather than just an exhilarating, rich scent. Combining exotic ingredients in all purpose fragrances like the Clubman Virgin Island Bay Rum Classic Aftershave, the Pinaud line was soon described as “unequaled for delicacy of odor, permanency, pungency and elegance”.

Even the demanding modern times appreciate that intriguing splash that brings back a flood of memories. The iconic elegance reminiscent of French tradition and barber shop nostalgia exudes sweet and zesty notes of lime, citrus, rum, musk, lavender or vanilla.

Feel the fresh tingle of the iconic Pinaud Clubman aftershave and articulate your sophistication in a fusion of luxuriant fragrances.

The Shaving Mug: an indispensable wet-shaving accessory

2013-03-18T14:45:00.002-04:00

“To achieve the perfect lather”— a goal as old as the ritual of wet shaving itself. With the variety of shaving accessories today, accomplishing that is no longer a utopia. Still, a critical eye is needed when picking these shaving accessories considering the myriad of forms available. One of the shaving accessories for men to receive a lot of attention because of its great assortment in the grooming world is the shaving bowl and its cousin, the shaving mug.

In the ancient world, this indispensable accessory was carved in wood and bone or shaped into clay. With the changes of time, more materials were used enhancing function and longevity, beautifying when it comes to design. The most appreciated representatives of this category today are the porcelain mug/bowl, the stainless steel bowl or the classic apothecary mug. In choosing a product over another, it is important that you compare more than the attractive, polished aspect.

The delicacy of porcelain makes the mug/bowl truly a stylish creation. The inverted hat shape of the Edwin Jagger Porcelain Shaving Bowl has attracted many wet shaving enthusiasts because of its soft curves available in black, ivory and white. More than that, this smart design is known to keep the soap in place as well as preventing the brush from clacking. The somewhat vintage appearance finished with the EJ emblem combines the artistic with the highly practical.

Another ceramic highlight are the creations of the American brand Colonel Ichabod Conk. These shaving mugs distinguish themselves through a more contemporary aspect or unique styling details (decorative borders). A model which does not really fit the “mug” description but compensates with functionality is the Colonel Ichabod Conk Rectangular Classic Wet Shaving Mug. Because of its built-in soap dish and reservoir, the rectangular shaving soap mug manages to prevent the excess of soap and water as well as maintaining the water temperature and soap moisture.

How about the simplistic stainless steel bowl? Shiny, polished on the inside and out, the shaving bowl made of this material is definitely light and handy. With corrosion resistance, mirror finishing and usually a matching lid, the clean lines characterizing this accessory match standard sized soaps. If you are a fan of this kind of impeccable craftsmanship, then the Thiers Issard Stainless Steel Bowl with Lid or the Vulfix Pewter Bowl for Shaving Soap will prove guaranteed showstoppers.

Apothecary Shaving Mugs
Usually manufactured of ceramic in hourglass shapes, the classic apothecary mug targets the gentlemen who prefer holding the mug in their hands while shaving. The different shape, deeper than other models is giving this model a definite plus point allowing freedom of motion, minimizing spills together with a secure grip due to the sturdy knob. The Fendrihan Classic Apothecary Mug in Black or White offers the elegant porcelain finishing along with the holding advantage.

Image Credits: hot lather by Scott Feldstein

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License.

Horsehair Shaving Brushes: The European Alternative

2013-02-25T13:10:00.000-05:00

The wet shaving aficionado knows the fine qualities of the badger hair shaving brush. Badger hair absorbs water, much like human hair. The more water a brush can hold and the more fine hairs that the brush has, the smoother and creamier the lather it makes. The springiness of the hairs helps apply the lather right underneath the beard stubble, and lifts any ingrown hair from the face. With proper care, they can stay soft and pliable, even after years of repeated use. Even so, the badger hair shaving brush, especially the high quality ones, can become very expensive.

Is there any way to cut back on the price without sacrificing the shaving experience?
Vie-Long in Spain presents horse hair as an alternative to the brush dilemma. Horsehair is easy to get, and since cutting bits of horsehair from the mane and tail of a horse won't hurt it, animal rights groups give it the green light. It is soft enough to use as textile fiber, yet stiff enough to work itself through facial stubble. It also has an advantage over boar bristle in Muslim countries, where all products made from pigs are not allowed. What's more, horse hair shaving brushes were actually popular up until the 1920s, when unsanitary conditions led to the decline of their use. Now that public health practices have greatly improved, this type of shaving brushes are trending up again.

Vie-Long specializes in making brushes for make-up as well as for shaving since its establishment in 1940. Although their product line includes pure badger hair brushes as well as different combinations of horsehair, badger hair and bristle, their pure horsehair brushes have quite a following because of their smoothness and denseness. These carefully handcrafted products come in a selection of beautiful handles that best fit your grip, from metal, to faux ivory, to finely carved wood.

Whether you choose horsehair for ethical reasons or economical, the Vie-Long brush that you bring home with you will be the best choice. The soft, cleansing touch it has on the face leaves you with the sense that you are right in having it. That is the perfect shaving experience.

Hair Grooming Tips for Gentlemen

2013-01-16T16:58:00.004-05:00

When it comes to hair grooming tips, there are a few important habits that can help men make the most of their hair care routines. Choosing the right hair brush and keeping hair brushes clean are two surefire ways to promote good grooming. With such a great variety of gentlemen's hair brushes available on today's market, there is literally something for everyone.

Types of Hair Brushes
Some of the best brushes for hair are high-quality tools made from durable, natural materials like ox horn, wood and natural bristles. The exquisite hair brushes for men made by Abbeyhorn comprise all three of these natural components. There are also wonderful hand-finished brushes from Kent that pair a comfortable wooden handle with natural fiber bristles or quills.

Abbeyhorn Ox Horn, Wood and Natural Bristle Oval Hair Brush

Plisson manufactures hair brushes with wooden handles and natural bristles; some models also include nylon bristles for superior detangling and body. There are many different types of brushes for hair, and the finest of these can easily be purchased from online retailers like Toronto-based Fendrihan, which caters to men of distinction.

Plisson Pneumatic Hair Brush with Bubinga Wood Handle

How to Clean Hair Brushes
Cleaning hair brushes is a very important part of grooming because you don't want to brush your hair with a brush that is dirty or clogged with dead, discarded hairs. Fortunately, there is a perfect solution for anyone who has ever wondered how to clean hair brushes. The Kent Handmade Hairbrush Cleaner is an affordable tool that enables you to clean the debris that collects on the base of your hair brush and effectively remove the hair that collects on the bristles. Regularly cleaning your hair brush can extend its life for years of use and enjoyment, making your purchase of a hair brush a lasting investment in good grooming.

Musgo Real: The Conquistador from Portugal

2012-11-23T14:15:00.001-05:00

The second largest city in Portugal, Oporto tastes like the divine nectar of Bacchus. It catches even the unformed eye with its detailed baroque architecture and lingers smoothly through the classic fragrance of Musgo Real. The suave smelling skin care products, which were once developed for the aristocracy, conquered gentlemen's hearts worldwide with their authentic ''legacy of the senses''.

Musgo Real was created in 1887; back in the day, the sunny Southern land was importing even the indispensable soap. Using natural oils and a scrupulous craftsmanship, two German partners, Ferdinand Claus and Georges Schweder founded Portugal's first perfume factory as well as the first national soap line. How could the newly invented Musgo soap grow to be considered a European tradition? Great popularity was brought to the brand when king D. Manuel the 2nd visited Oporto to try the luxurious goods with no synthetic aromas or conservation agents. Another step towards international recognition was achieved through exclusive details like artistic, hand painted labels.

From past to future, the Musgo Real sweet-scented goods have freshened men throughout Europe and beyond. The iconic soap has been adapted to our busy times. The Musgo Real Soap on a Rope version maintains the old world charm, smelling like ''nature's fresh outdoors''; the cotton rope prevents sudden dropping especially while in a hurry. Clean skin and soft hair is what the Musgo Real Shampoo and Shower Gel are designed for. Described as versatile, the convenient bottle smells like vintage hay flowers once opened.

Products dedicated to shaving? The Musgo Real tradition has covered all the steps of the ancient ritual. For a gentle preparing of the shaving area, use the Pre-Shave Oil based on almond extract and grape seeds or the Musgo Real Glyce Lime Oil Pre-Shave Soap. No matter if you are using a brush or not, the rich lather of the Musgo Real Classic Shaving Cream combines both softening and moisturizing properties. The MR After Shave Balm is recommended for soothing after the act of shaving. Add the masculine fragrance of Musgo Real After Shave Classic scent or pick your freshness conquistador among the three options of Agua de Colonia: No. 1 for sultry Orange Amber, No. 2 for woody Oak Moss and intense No.3 for Spices Citrus.

Wear the truly traditional fragrance of Musgo Real and enjoy Oporto's sunny freshness.

Sheaffer Pens: The Writing Instrument that does all things right

2012-11-16T16:57:00.000-05:00

With touchscreen, voice recognition and other tools nowadays substituting the meticulous handling of a pen, we should never shut our eyes on the invention which has brought us the ''gift of words''. The steady ink flow of the Sheaffer fountain pens has engraved luxury, passion and power as the smart writing instruments became an integral part of life. The eye-catching, ready-to-write jewel has always been a leader among practical gifts with classic appeal.

Back in the day when only diplomats, presidents and famous writers scribbled their signature using a fountain pen, jeweler Walter Sheaffer founded a company aimed ''to suit every hand''. The innovative creations individualized by the pen filling aparatus assured the effortless movement on paper, eliminating the mess when refilling. Every Sheaffer pen collection manufactured ever since has the ''White Dot'' emblem, a commitment to quality and high level aesthetics. Even with the change from a generation to another, the tradition in writing comfort was preserved as the success of the non-leaking fountain pens was acknowledged worldwide.

Sheaffer creations have been termed “Timeless” — a supreme adjective to characterize utility and a literal reflection on the Legacy Heritage Collection in regard to their warranty. Holding one of these fine writing instruments, like the Sheaffer Legacy Heritage Fountain Pen, you will never get the feeling of ephemeral. More than that, with so many enchanting combinations to choose from, you can customize details like texture, color and nib to fit your preferences.

Treasure the ''gift of words'' even in modern times of advanced technology. Add a timeless Sheaffer fountain pen to complete your image and feel what vintage class is all about.

Complete your holiday shopping list on time with these promo codes

2012-11-07T10:14:00.000-05:00

November is the best month to do your online holiday shopping if you are looking to avoid the holiday shipping rush. And with these great offers from Fendrihan you can give high-style, top-quality leather bags and accessories, and save while you're at it!

Use promo code: pierotucci40 to save 40% on all Pierotucci leather goods.
Use promo code: goldenhead30 to save 30% on selected Golden Head leather goods (excludes manicure sets).

And while you are visiting, make sure to check out Fendrihan's newest leather accessories brand, J. W Hulme Co.

Marvis Toothpaste: Timeless Power in a Smile

2012-10-29T13:24:00.002-04:00

Marvis offers an array of gourmet flavours you won't find
at the pharmacy or supermarket shelf.

Psychologists believe that a smile is an expression of perceived self-confidence as well as an outward sign of internal satisfaction. Still, you don't need to be an expert in order to realize that cracking a smile and showing your pearly-whites can increase your trust level along with your attractiveness. No matter if you are on a date, closing a business deal or you find yourself on the spot of taking the annual family picture, the end result is always best when smiling like a Cheshire cat. Marvis — an iconic toothpaste inspired by Italy's aristocratic art and fashion, carries a legacy which goes way beyond the standard happy brushing.

The creamy tingly sensation was born about 50 years ago in Florence; a luxurious toothpaste for smokers. One of the oldest and best whitening toothpastes on the market then, the intense minty taste has maintained its freshness, nowadays receiving the adjective “contemporary”. Due to its unparalleled quality promoting new flavors, extraordinary whitening properties and prolonged protection, Marvis toothpastes have brightened the smiles of the spellbound public willing to try something new. The Italian modern interpretation of the indispensable dental product has an unbeatable appeal, standing out through its provocative, stylish branding. Their boxes and tubes display sleek metallic coatings, featuring an aristocratic portrait on their stylish surfaces.

The New Taste collection, comprises 7 different aromatic scents. Surprise yourself with the bittersweet notes of the Marvis Amarelli Licorice or the harmonious floral notes of the Marvis Jasmine Mint. Maintain your peppermint preference choosing the unmistakable Marvis Classic Strong Mint or choose a more subtle interpretation of the lively thrill with the Marvis Whitening. Dive into the sea of freshness with Marvis Aquatic Mint and taste the unusual with the aromatic Marvis Cinammon Mint or the spicy Marvis Ginger Mint. Yes, mint remains the main ingredient but in these intriguing combinations, no wonder Marvis takes the throne.

Listen to the experts, flash a smile as an international recognized expression with timeless power! Brush with Marvis, a luxurious toothpaste with both classic and contemporary features.

How to choose the best shaving cream for your skin type

2012-10-22T13:32:00.001-04:00

Load your brush with a high-quality shaving cream
made for your skin type. Avoid canned foams.

Sensitive, Normal or Dry skin? No matter how elegant, famous or innovative, shaving creams should always be chosen according to the skin type. It is true that some gentlemen may close their eyes and ignore this aspect as soon as they smell their fresh, alluring scents, but being picky with the creamy lather can only bring advantages.

Sensitive shaving creams are meant to repair, protect, and prevent fast irritation. Their active ingredients cannot be substituted for the ones found in products for “normal” skin. These do not have the same properties even if some of the basic components may repeat themselves. Using dry skin formulations to treat sensitive skin is also a misinformed approach. These products aim at replenishing dehydrated skin with extra conditioning, not fitting the sensitive purpose no matter how rich in their texture. Grooming experts have made things even easier for the ones who still struggle to find the perfect shaving must have: creams for all skin types.

How to choose the best shaving cream for men
With deep masculine notes, Taylor of Old Bond Street is one luxurious brand with uncompromising quality, matching any kind of skin dermis. Jermyn Street Shaving Cream for Sensitive Skin developed by this British expert, combines both allergen-free and paraben-free ingredients, leaving your skin smelling smooth after a close, nick-free shave. The formula dedicated to Dry/Sensitive Skin includes the nurturing, restoring properties of Aloe Vera while the Normal/All Skin Types Line comes in the greatest variety. Choose the St. James fragrance if you are a fan of citrus/wood/amber, the Eton College fragrance for juicy orange/mandarin or the fresh delight in creams based on Almond, Avocado, Lemon/Lime or Sandalwood.

Described as one of the most innovative products on the grooming market of today, Kyoku for Men packs the old Japanese traditions in your shaving cream bowl. Ageless skin is the target of this American brand which adventured itself into using rare and exotic recipes. The Kyoku shaving cream individualized into Normal or Sensitive makes no exception with sake as the main ingredient.

With a tradition in double edge razors, the German shaving expert Edwin Jagger maintains the superlative aspect in three different types of shaving cream. For sensitive skin try the product based on delicate Aloe Vera, for normal or dry skin feel the subtle aroma of Sandalwood while Sea Buckthorn is dedicated to all skin types.

Improve your shaving experience by picking out a cream in harmony with your skin type. With great variety, exotic ingredients and unrivalled precision the shave creams of today have more properties than working up a lather in a snap.

Find out more

Gold Dachs: Excellence Wrapped in Mystery

2012-10-17T16:53:00.002-04:00

With luxurious products, a slogan underlining superiority and a website where pictures compensate for words, Gold Dachs has made it big as an European classic in the world of shaving. Focusing on the precision and quality of their goods, the German brand has left its clientele wondering when it comes to the manufacturing company. Digging for answers, the puzzle remains: will we ever know who hides behind the symbol of the "golden badger" or should we just enjoy the finest grooming leaving the detailed story in the fog?

There is no doubt that Gold Dachs has German roots. When it comes to the brilliant mind behind this story of success, confusion arises. Some label it as a masterpiece range under Dittmar GmbH, others individualize it as a separate company. Question also abound when it comes to the bestseller Gold Dachs shaving soap: formerly sold under the name "Rivivage", its pleasant lather has not made things any clearer with most buyers asking themselves if there are two distinct products or just one with two names.

Enchanted or puzzled by the mystery of Gold Dachs, one thing remains constant: their products are excellent! The 100% organic shaving soap softens the beard easily and has a clean, fresh smell. The after shave, apparently produced since 1971 works on both sensitive and normal skin, reinvigorating it without dehydration or burning. The shaving sets with wood/aluminum finish remind you of true German precision, not lacking on elegance in design.

Great quality outshines uncertainty; Gold Dachs is the perfect example for an excellent brand wrapped in a long lasting mystery.

Canada Gets Ready for Movember 2012

2012-10-12T15:11:00.000-04:00

Movember 2012 is rapidly approaching, and with it comes a flurry of activity as men in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and across the globe prepare themselves for this manly month, annual celebration of facial hair and charitable event all rolled into one. The uninitiated may be wondering, "What is Movember?" It actually goes much deeper than just a fashion statement or an ornament on a gentleman's face. This once-a-year event also helps to raise awareness and funds for men's health issues such as prostate and testicular cancer. It began in Australia and New Zealand in 2004. By 2007, it had spread to Canada and other countries in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

Men who are participating in this fun way to bring awareness to male health issues spend the entire month growing, grooming and showing off the fruits of their efforts while collecting generous sponsors and donations as they progress. The perfect Movember moustache begins with a fresh, clean-shaven face on the first of November. It doesn't matter whether gentlemen prefer the fine art of shaving with a straight razor or the use of a quality double edge safety razor. The important thing is to enjoy the process that will create a clean canvas, which will soon be decorated with the finest, well-groomed facial hair that the month of November has ever seen.

The gentlemen who participate in the selfless fanfare of this far-reaching effort find that just a few simple tools are necessary to transform their facial hair into a noteworthy set of whiskers. Many Mo Bros, as they are affectionately called, find that a moustache comb, scissors and wax make an excellent set of grooming instruments to enhance their labors. A grooming safety razor and replacement blades may also be useful. It's a great idea to have these products on hand at the beginning of the month because November only comes once per year. Those who wish to participate may register at www.movember.com.

Pierotucci Briefcases: High-Fashion Elegance

2012-10-05T14:33:00.001-04:00

The Pierotucci Limited Edition Saffiano Leather Briefcase

Packing the warmth of Tuscany inside their smart, compact interiors, Pierotucci leather goods have been considered an important trend setter in Italian high fashion for more than 35 years. From every day companions to toiletry bags and eye-catching business accessories, the handcrafted legacy of manufacturer Piero triumphs as both genuine and sophisticated.

Purchasing one of the Italian briefcases born in the factory of Florence, you will not only appear as a well organized individual accessorized with leather but will adopt the brand's image, with the emphasis on the highest quality. The vegetable tanned classic beauties said to ''scream Italy'' with their distinctive style, accommodate your business essentials efficiently inside their safe zipped pockets.

The Pierotucci Embossed Calfskin Borsetta can be the tidy, small choice when carrying the most necessary business belongings. The refined exterior leather in jet black has a superb full-grain appearance while the interior of this elegant borsetta also made of the smooth material separates in two main pockets. This small briefcase has a metal lock and a key, guaranteeing security.

Safe and durable are two adjectives describing the Pierotucci Saffiano Leather Briefcase as well. Professional in its three sections, this full sized leather business bag complies with all the modern needs of a businessman. From the cell pocket to the card slot and the somewhat old-school pen loops, the attractive accessory in premium calfskin leather comes with an attachable shoulder strap.

If vintage design seems closer to your preferences, take a look at the Pierotucci Limited Edition Saffiano Leather Doctors Bag with combination lock. Made of embossed cowhide, this true traditional model organizes in three roomy sections meticulously designed. Even with the old air look, the modern touches are present making it as functional as elegant.

Business can incorporate Italian high fashion. Adopt the Pierotucci image where quality and elegance go hand in hand.