GIVE THE GIFT OF good grooming
To your favourite guy on Father’s Day
It’s almost Father’s Day, so the big question becomes: what are you going to buy dad?
While the items on his wish list likely include, oh, a shiny new John Deere ride-on lawn mower, an even-shinier Omega watch, a vintage Cabernet Sauvignon (or a delicious IPA), and a tasty meal centred around a perfectly marbled steak, there are a few more personal presents to give him this year.
Rather than gift an old go-to, why not treat pops to something a little more, shall we say, therapeutic? Something he likely wouldn’t buy for himself.
“We all know dads won’t go out and spend money on themselves,” says Ashley Kazlauskas, the business development and education consultant for L’Oréal Canada.
That means ensuring dad’s grooming game is in peak form is up to us.
Where, then, should you start when it comes to shaking-up dad’s toiletry kit? According to Kazlauskas, the answer is closest to the skin.
“Pamper your dad with luxury shaving essentials, to give him the closest shave ever,” she recommends. That can mean electric razors, classic shavers or even a gift certificate to a new local barbershop.
When it comes to products, consider opting for releases that do double-duty, such as shaving creams that also moisturize the skin or facial scrubs that exfoliate while also softening facial hair. Not only do multi-purpose products make for fewer steps, they also often equate to an overall savings, too. And, according to Kazlauskas, cost is an important element to ensuring dad not only tries and uses the newly gifted goodies — but also re-buys them when they’re finished.
“There are some products that men are attached to, however, when given a gift they are receptive to trying new products; and sometimes shift loyalty,” she explains. “But men also love a good deal, so price points and promotions play a big part in what product they select to purchase.”
Looking to keep the gift simple? Then you may want to consider sticking to the bare necessities.
“A good moisturizer, eye cream and lip balm will go a long way in helping maintain the health of the skin,” Kazlauskas says.
Working with a small gifting budget that forces you to pick just one? Go for the moisturizer. Because, as Kazlauskas explains it, it’s the most important step of any skin-care regime — and one that dad may be leaving out.
“Do not underestimate the importance of moisturizing,” she stresses. “It helps prevent dehydration of the skin, which can lead to (premature) aging.”
And for fathers sporting a healthy beard, consider picking up one of the top-trending products.
“Beard oil is trending this year,” Kazlauskas says. “(The product), ensures the skin and hair is moisturized while keeping the style of the beard in place.”
A multi-purpose beard product, such as Decléor’s Aromessence Triple Action Shave Perfector Serum, can also help prepare the hair follicle for a closer shave while simultaneously limiting irritation and redness and also killing bacteria to prevent ingrown hairs and blemishes, Kazlauskas says.
Not sure whether or not your dad is ready to up his grooming game? In that case, you may want to revert to the old fallback.
“A thoughtful card will always make your dad smile,” Kazlauskas says.
That, and a nice cold beer.
LUSH SMUGGLER’S SOUL FACE SCRUB
Because we could all use a little buffing once in a while — yes, even dad. This gritty facial scrub features “super-fine” bamboo granules to give skin just enough of the rough stuff without going overboard. $8.95 | Lush.ca
MICHAEL KORS MEN’S JET SET LOGO DOUBLE-ZIP TRAVEL CASE
If your dad needs new grooming goods, chances are, he could also use a new kit to store them in. This designer case can fit all the day’s essentials, while also being flight-friendly so he won’t forget to pack them along while travelling. $195 | Michaelkors.ca
GILLETTE FUSION PROSHIELD CHILL GIFT PACK
Dealing with a dad who likes to keep things simple? Consider picking him up a classic shaver and shave-gel set from Gillette. $19.99 | Mass retailers
DECLÉOR AROMESSENCE TRIPLE ACTION SHAVE PERFECTOR SERUM
This powerful serum helps fight skin damage during shaving, while also softening skin and soothing razor burn for a smoother, cleaner look. The double-duty formula can be used before and after shaving. $79 | Hudson’s Bay
MATRIX STYLE LINK OVER ACHIEVER HAIR CREAM, PASTE & WAX
Forget two-in-one products, these days, it’s all about three-in-one. This hairstyling product controls hair, adds texture and holds a style all in one easy tub. $16.24 | Select salons
LUSH SUPERDAD BATH BOMB
Have a “super dad” in your family? Treat him to a bathtub delight with this limited-edition bath bomb from LUSH. The dissolving, sandalwood-scented formula will leave the bathroom smelling manly, while leaving his skin feeling soft. $8.95 | Lush.ca
KÉRASTASE HOMME CAPITAL FORCE ULTRA FIXING DENSIFYING GEL
If you’re shopping for a guy who likes to be in control, this hair gel may be for him. The product keeps tresses tamed and styled without the telltale crunch of some other gels. $39 | Select salons
TWEEZERMAN G.E.A.R. SHAVE AND BRUSH STAND
This synthetic-bristle brush helps comb and condition facial hair while also delivering products and shaving cream straight to the skin. The included brush stand also allows for proper drying so the brush doesn’t get smelly. $46 | Tweezerman.ca
KIEHL’S MEN’S OIL ELIMINATOR REFRESHING SHINE CONTROL SPRAY TONER
Sure, you want dad to shine, but you don’t want him to, you know, SHINE. Give the gift of matte skin with this oil-nixing spray. The oil-free, dermatologist-tested potion works to instantly cool skin while also reducing oil and the overall appearance of pores. $26 | Kiehls.ca
ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOAP CO. RESTORATIVE MEN’S EYE CREAM
The eyes may be the window to the soul, but the skin around them is the giver away of age. Keep loved ones guessing about his age with a powerful — but also natural — eye cream that features Beech Tree Bud, an organic wrinkle fighting ingredient. $37.50 | Rockymountainsoap.com