The Best Face Washes & Cleansers for Men
Reviews by Thom Watson, qualified beauty therapist, testing men’s grooming since 2011. About Thom
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Acne, spots & blemishesDry / Dehydrated SkinFace ScrubsFace WashesNormal-Combination SkinSensitive SkinZO Skin HealthZO Skin Health Hydrating Cleanser Review
Last year marked a significant shift in my skincare needs due to eczema medication for my hands, which unexpectedly made my facial skin drier and more sensitive. My regular cleansing products, used for their powerful cleansing, exfoliating and resurfacing capabilities, became immediately too harsh for my skin’s new-normal. This led me on a quest for…
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Acne, spots & blemishesAveneFace ScrubsFace WashesMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinSerumsAvène Cleanance Expert Skincare
A few years ago I attended an event with the french Pharmacy brand Avene for the launch of their Avene Cleanance Expert, a new hydrating acne treatment (similar in packaging and brand messaging to La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo Plus). I’m always highly sceptical when it comes to acne treatments that are on the lower…
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Argentum Apothecary Silver Infused Skincare
I’ve used and reviewed the Argentum skin cream before back in 2013 when the brand first launched with only the skin cream. The brand relies on two essential skincare componants: the first being Silver Hydrosol and then DNA HP Marine Extract. Argentum products feature almost 100% natural ingredients and are perfect for problem skin. I’ve…
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The Tiniest Electric Cleanser: Foreo LUNA Go for MEN
I’ve never gotten into the Foreo LUNA. I’ve been sent the original twice and I’ve given it my best shot – I just didn’t like it. The devices are a different take on devices such as the Clarisonic and Clinique Sonic but instead of using brushes, it’s made of sonic vibrating solicone nodules designed to boost your cleansing.…
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If you can meet with Triumph & Disaster…
This is a very new brand to me and was kindly sent to me by MANKIND to try out and see what I think. This isn’t a sponsored piece either, but I’m always excited to share new brands that I think are effective, accessible and gosh-darn pretty! This New-Zealand brand is beautifully executed. Their packaging…
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Review of Blemish Fighting Skincare from The Body Shop
The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range is one of the longest standing blemish fighting skincare ranges in existence. I had the face wash and oil when I was 12/13 and so had countless others before me and countless others after. So let’s welcome some new additions to this timeless family. All the Tea Tree oil in the range is Community Fair…
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Amanda Lacey Skincare
Not only am I very excited to be working with Amanda Lacey on a new project with her, it has been a delight to try out 3 pieces of her renowned skincare. If you’ve not heard of Amanda Lacey before, it’s because her skincare is not lining every boutique in the country with very select…
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The Best Cleansers for Acne and Blemish-Prone Skin
Here are my top 5 cleansers for acne and blemish prone skin ranging from various types, prices, brands and textures. For more information on how to treat acne and blemishes, read my Acne Skin Care Guide here! 1. Zelens Z Detox Clarifying Foaming Cleanser This has been my latest favourite and well into my second…
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The Best Face Wash for Men (UK)
So many times I’m asked, what’s the best this or what’s the most popular that and it’s a tough question to answer. The best thing is what works best for you! How much of a frustrating answer is that? But with what’s the best face wash for men, I would definitely make a start with Clarins…
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Dark Spots & PigmentationFace WashesMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinSerumsSun ProtectionThe Body ShopThe Body Shop Drops of Light Review
I’m not going to bother starting with what a roll The Body Shop is on at the moment as it seems to be less of a blip and more of a way of things to come. You can read a couple more of my The Body Shop skin care reviews here: The Body Shop NEW Drops…
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Zelens Skincare Review: An Introduction
I’ve been looking forward to showcasing this brand since I started using the skin care line a couple of months back. Zelens skin care, created by Dr. Marko Lens MD MSc DPhil (Oxon) FRCS with a specialism in Plastic and reconstructive surgery, has achieved critical acclaim and over the last couple of years just seems to…
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AesopDry / Dehydrated SkinEye CreamsFace MasksFace ScrubsFace WashesMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinSerumsToners & EssencesAesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Skin Care
Not a review as such, more than a public service announcement! Aesop’s Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant skin care is a great all rounder regime for normal/dry skin that’s designed to hydrate, re-balance and protect against environmental and oxidation damage. I’ve reviewed a lot of the products in the range over the last year or so but as…
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Bobbi BrownDry / Dehydrated SkinFace ScrubsFace WashesLip CareMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinThe Ultimate Skin Care Routine by Bobbi Brown
This has definitely been a long time coming and stupidly one of those reviews I’d assumed I’d already written years ago. Bobbi Brown skin care is just perfect – no bias and with plenty of testing. Do you have any skin care that you just feel safe with? Where whatever amazing, ultra-technical advanced product you’re trying,…
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Acne, spots & blemishesDark Spots & PigmentationDry / Dehydrated SkinEnlarged & Blocked PoresFace WashesNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinOriginsPhotoageing & FirmnessDr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Mushroom Micellar Cleanser
I love a good Micellar water, particularly the Bioderma Sensibio (I go through gallons of it). They’re perfect for cleansing the skin, removing dirt, debris, loose dead skin cells and breaking down excess oil; all without alcohol and with the gentleness, neutrality and softness of water. I’d never recommend only using a micellar water as your cleanser,…
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Time For Some Fun: Imperial Leather Sweet Shop Shower Gels
Firstly, I’m not going to lie but I bought the bag of Squishies for the photo and immediately ate them… so I present to you the empty bag. I was at Boots last week grabbing a new toothpaste and mouthwash (such glamour); on the way to the checkout at the front of the shop was…
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NEW launches from Clinique For Men with the Sonic For Men and Charcoal Face Wash
Launches from Clinique for Men come but once in a blue moon, but when they do, the men’s grooming and skin care industry scrambles into action to copy and replicate their inevitable success. Big changes are upon us It just so happens that a couple of weeks back I was talking with the British director of…
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Adam & Eve Skin Care for The 20-Something
I’m rarely happy when someone sends me a product range; particularly when it’s from an unknown brand. I’m a harsh judge with skin care generally. The percentage of products I get sent that make it onto MANFACE is teeny-tiny and believe me, those Jiffy bags come fast and furious (I was going to make an Anthrax joke,…
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Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gel: The Holy Grail of Acne Skincare
It sounds boring, looks boring and for all intents and purposes is boring; but, to accompany the launch of a new Clinique Sonic Anti Blemish Solutions brush head, the new Clinique Anti Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gel is one of my top products already for 2015. Most of us get spots, whether it’s persistent, occasional or the ‘travelling spot’ that leaves…
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Superdrug Tea Tree Exfoliating Cream Wash & Tea Tree Nose Strips
Just as how so many people buy skincare, I saw and bought these Superdrug Tea Tree products because: the packaging caught my eye; the price was good and it was on offer. An often lethal combination. Remember, always ask yourself: why is it cheap and why are they trying to sell it quickly (on offer)?…
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Clinique Sonic Facial Cleansing Brush: The Clarisonic Killer?
The Clinique Sonic System came as no surprise as it was inevitable that our lord and master, Estée Lauder companies, would eventually take on L’Oreal’s success with the Clarisonic facial cleansing brush. It was also pretty inevitable that Clinique would be the brand to do it; standing as one of the world’s biggest selling skin care…
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Acne, spots & blemishesEnlarged & Blocked PoresFace ScrubsFace WashesLa Roche-PosayMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinSponsoredTest Driving La Roche-Posay Effaclar 3 Step Anti-Blemish System: The Results #Sponsored
Over the last six weeks, three of my closest friends and myself have been trialling the new La Roche-Posay Effaclar 3 Step Anti-Blemish System. The products themselves aren’t new, and even though you might be thinking “But Thom! I’ve not seen that toner before!”, I’d firstly ask you to stop yelling at me and to…
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Yes To Tomatoes Daily Balancing Moisturiser & Daily Clarifying Cleanser
This was a bit of a surprise. I’d had no idea until now that Yes To products were being stocked in Boots stores. The last time I saw them was in Spain lining the shelves of Sephora. Yes To Tomatoes is the arm of the brand devoted to acne, blemishes and oily/combination skin. The range…
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Acne, spots & blemishesEye CreamsFace MasksFace ScrubsFace WashesMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinOriginsGinZing Refreshing Face Mask & Collection
I reviewed the GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturiser back in May last year (£23 here from Boots) and since then, Origins have been busy, busy bees, adding three more products to their best-selling collection including: the NEW Refreshing Face Mask; Refreshing Face Scrub Cleanser and the Refreshing Eye Cream. The whole range relies on the power of…
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Acne, spots & blemishesDarphinEnlarged & Blocked PoresFace WashesNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinToners & EssencesDarphin Azahar Cleansing Micellar Water
Arriving a little late to the Micellar party, the Micellar offering from Darphin has definitely been worth the wait with Darphin Azahar Cleansing Micellar Water. I’ll be honest, there’s not a huge amount to report here other than it’s a very effective cleansing water that removes impurities, trace makeup/concealer, surface dead skin cells and excess…
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NEW Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream
Launching January 20th, the NEW Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream is a gentle, hydrating and deeply cleansing facial cleanser designed to sooth the skin whilst breaking down surface pollutants, detoxifying the skin without the use of water. Jojoba oil helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier and is easily absorbed without creating congestion; the fatty…
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Aesop Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser
I’ve reviewed a fair few Aēsop products now and I have to say, overall, I’m really impressed and my initial reservations of “Oh, it’s just a load of natural rubbish” is completely unfounded. Their skincare is effective, well formulated and a pleasure to use. Aēsop Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser is definitely no exception and is one…
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Tom Ford For Men Purifying Face Cleanser Review
The launch of the Tom Ford for Men Grooming collection has been undeniably successful and a well needed breath of fresh air to the world of premium men’s skincare. Tom Ford For Men Purifying Face Cleanser is the core of that collection; the first step that improves the efficacy of the others in the range. I’d…
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Crème de La Mer The NEW Cleansing Gel
The NEW Crème de La Mer The Cleansing Gel is where it’s all at. I’m a huge fan of the original The Cleansing Gel, a cleanser that seems to last a scarily long amount of time; mine being near the end of its life after being in use for almost a year. So what’s the difference?…
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar H Foam Dermo-Soothing Deep Cleansing
Oiliness is often caused by a break in the moisture barrier with the skin then overcompensating for the lack of water balance by producing excess oil. This is then often caused by harsh products and ingredients known as surfactants that just strip the skin of all its goodness – Clearasil / Clean & Clear are…
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REN Rosa Centifolia Hot Cloth Cleanser
REN Rosa Centifolia Hot Cloth Cleanser is an awesome product – so much so, Liz Earle is probably unconscious on a bathroom floor somewhere out of sheer shock that her beloved has some tough competition. This is good, really good. For all skin types, this two-phase cleanser is loaded with Rosa Centifolia with skin conditioning, soothing…
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Acne, spots & blemishesDry / Dehydrated SkinEnlarged & Blocked PoresFace WashesNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinRedness & RosaceaREN SkincareSensitive SkinToners & EssencesREN Rosa Centifolia Micellar Cleansing Water
Right, let me just get this out the way as I find it so pointlessly misleading and confusing; Rosa Centifolia is not a range designed to specifically target Rosacea, redness and other high-colour concerns. It’s a range designed to calm, soften and hydrate all skin types. Rosa Centifolia is actually the name of a Dutch…
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Enlarged & Blocked PoresEye CreamsFace MasksFace WashesLip CareMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinPhotoageing & FirmnessSerumsTom FordToners & EssencesTom Ford For Men Grooming Collection Review
Fine grooming is the mark of a modern gentleman. It is the way a man presents the best version of himself to the world. The wise-words of Tom Ford and what an honour. I’m lucky enough to be one of, although I’m pretty certain the I’m actually the first blogger to get my hands on…
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Acne, spots & blemishesDry / Dehydrated SkinFace WashesMakeup & TanningNormal-Combination SkinOily SkinPhotoageing & FirmnessSensitive SkinAnthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser
This is actually Anthony Logistics’ top seller at Sephora for ten years running. It’s deliciously creamy, non-greasy, soothing, and very cleansing. Most readers and many followers on Twitter will know that I’m very pro-foaming face washe and very anti-cleansing oil/balm etc. I like the feeling of being clean, so I was naturally a little sceptical…
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Acne, spots & blemishesDark Spots & PigmentationDry / Dehydrated SkinFace WashesL’OccitaneMoisturisersOily SkinToners & EssencesL’Occitane Immortelle Brightening Collection
Over the last month, I’ve switched my entire skincare regime to the L’Occitane Immortelle Brightening collection. It’s always a big risk to change your skincare regime in one, big wallop as you never quite know how your skin is going to react, therefore I always recommend to gradually change 1 product at a time, but…
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Bioderma Micelle Solution Micellar Water
I’m rarely one for a beauty trends, although BB Creams are amazing, specifically the Korean Blemish Balms but Micellar Waters are all the rage and I have to admit, I’m on board. The biggest micellar water offering seems to be revolving around Bioderma, a French brand launching here in the UK this April. From my…
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4711AromaticCliniqueFace ScrubsFace WashesLa MerL’OccitaneMen's FragranceMoisturisersPhotoageing & FirmnessSerumsToners & EssencesMy Favourites for Spring 2013
Versace Eros You can read my full review for Versace Eros here, but this is definitely my favourite for spring. It’s light, sweet and fresh, but with a solid base that lets everyone know you mean business. My favourite notes are the Madagascan vanilla flower and deliciously fresh apple. Versace’s first men’s fragrance launch in…
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Yon-Ka For Men
“Yon”, the river of living and “Ka”, the eternal part of every being, form a symbol of constant regeneration and newfound harmony. Yon-Ka, established in 1954 in the Multaler Laboratories, are pioneers and leaders in aromatherapy and skincare. I was fortunate to get hold of a their skincare system, Yon-Ka For Men, which I have…
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Kose Seikisho Face Soap
Individually hand-made, Kose Seikisho Soap is a mild but highly effective, medicated soap that will clear up even my worst breakout. Packed full of water-soluble moisturising ingredients, even though this is a soap bar, it’s as gentle as any liquid cleanser. Before I even get into the ingredients and what-not, I have to talk about…
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CliniqueFace ScrubsFace WashesMoisturisersNormal-Combination SkinPhotoageing & FirmnessToners & EssencesClinique 3 Step Skincare System: 2 Dry Combination for Men
After a fantastic consultation at Manchester’s Selfridges, Exchange Square, I was shocked to learn that for the first time in my life, the perfect Clinique system for me is Number 2 – Dry Combination. Most of my life I’ve used Clinique’s Anti-Blemish solutions, but over the last year my skin seems to have finally vanquished…
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SK-II Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil & Cellumination Mask in Lotion
For an upstanding beautiful, natural skin tone, bare your skin to Japan. As an undergraduate Japanese language student, it would be remiss of me if I didn’t at least attempt to translate their slogan and that was my best attempt (that made anywhere near sense), please correct me if I’m wrong. If you’ve not come…
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Crème de la Mer The Cleansing Gel (The Original)
You’ll probably know by now that I am a pretty massive Crème de la Mer fan, for the reason being that they’re a brand who’ve successfully combined luxury with true efficacy. Until now I was using The Cleansing Foam, but not religiously and only when I was feeling particularly oily and in need of a…
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Dr. Nick Lowe Anti Blemish
As with Neal’s Yard, skin care from Dr. Nick Lowe has been on my radar for such a long time, but I’ve never taken the opportunity to try it out, until now that is and where better to start than with a range designed to combat my oily / combination and blemish prone skin. The…
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Neal’s Yard Palmarosa Facial Wash
The second in my set of Neal’s Yard Palmarosa reviews, this time looking at Neal’s Yard Palmarosa Facial Wash. Designed for an oily / combination skin type and for those also with blemish concerns, this is the perfect cleanser for you as it deeply cleanses without unbalancing your skin’s natural oils. Packed with a tonne of organic…
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Liz Earle For Men Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser Review
I’ve always seen Liz Earle about, particularly when I worked with Clinique at John Lewis in Cheadle a couple of years ago, but never actually bought anything. I can honestly say I’ve missed out big time. On visiting John Lewis in Liverpool I strayed over to their counter for a peruse and what I peruse…