Contrary to popular belief, male grooming has always had a place in history. From the bathing milks and scented oils used by the Egyptians to the rise of the “Mad Men Style” of the 1960s, men have consistently strived to look their best with what they have had available.
In recent years, however, the number of grooming products available to men has grown beyond belief. Men now pay more attention to their self-care rituals and the leading brands have responded by flooding the market with a never-before-seen variety. This development in male-oriented skin, hair, and body care has become known as the “Men’s Grooming Revolution.”
But with new innovations come many challenges. Gone are the days when a quick stop at the drugstore was enough to stock up on all of your grooming essentials. Today’s variety of brands, products, and prices calls for some serious preliminary research.
To help transform your grooming ritual from drab to fab, we created this list of the best men’s grooming products of 2022. Read on for some of our most exciting discoveries.
1. Blu Atlas | Restorative Eye Stick
Courtesy of Blu AtlasAwarded by Men’s Journal for having the best men’s grooming products, Blu Atlas slides in #1 on our list. Say goodbye to dark circles forever with Blu Atlas’ convenient and effective Restorative Eye Stick. An anti-aging product specifically formulated for men, Blu Atlas’ Eye Stick makes a wonderful addition to your everyday grooming ritual. Its simple roll-on applicator works easily enough for even the most reluctant groomer—guys, we’re looking at you—and its compact size is ideally suited for a quick getaway. Unlike many other creams, masks, and cleanser, Blu Atlas’ eye stick is mess free and takes seconds to apply.
Like all of Blu Atlas’ products, its eye stick is made only with the most natural, high-quality ingredients. Antioxidant and beta-carotene rich micro-algae nourish sensitive undereye skin. Vitamin C detoxifies the skin and aids in the formation of collagen. Natural caffeine gives your skin a boost of energy while fortifying it against potential damage.
All in all, we think that Blu Atlas’ Restorative Eye Stick excels for both its hassle-free design and its impeccable ingredients. And besides, puffy eyes underscored with dark circles are so last season.
2. BRO MASK | Korean Face Mask for Men
Courtesy of Amazon
We couldn’t contain our excitement about BRO MASK’s Korean Face Mask for Men. Coming in at a close number two among this year’s best male grooming products, BRO MASK’s product has already been noticed by publications such as Men’s Health, New York Magazine, and Gear Patrol. We think it is easy to see why: these face masks for men were designed in larger sizes to accommodate male faces.
BRO MASK’s Korean Face Mask for Men is also an incredibly versatile product; we simply wouldn’t have the space here to list of all of its benefits. Infused with collagen, vitamin B3 niacinamide serum, and green tea, these face masks can be worn as a facial moisturizer, acne solution, anti-aging cream, or a soothing after sun treatment. What these masks do not contain, however, are chemical additives; they are made wholly free of parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.
3. Layrite | Cement Clay
Courtesy of Layrite
Designed to “Hold like wax and wash out like gel” Layrite’s products have revolutionized the male hairstyling industry in the late 1990s. To date, the company offers some of the most potent and original products on the market. Layrite’s Cement Clay is one of our favorites for its long-lasting hold, matte finish, and gentle scent. True to its name, Layrite’s Cement Clay provides a truly exceptional hold, while still remaining water-soluble for an effortless wash out.
Designed for a wide variety of hair types—fine to medium thick—Layrite’s Cement Clay allows you to choose between a messy or more structured look. Simply rub a dime sized amount into damp or dry hair for a simple, all-day style. The entire process takes ten to twenty seconds and leaves you looking great for hour after hour. Once you are done for the day, Layrite’s Cement Clay rinses out easily with water and shampoo. Whether you are into a basic style, or an elaborate man-do, Layrite’s Cement Clay is a must-have for your grooming arsenal.
4. Harry’s | Post-Shave Balm
Courtesy of Harry’s
Soothing your skin after every shave, Harry’s Post-Shave Balm was designed to start your morning right. Its dye free formula is enriched with natural aloe vera and cucumber extract for a cooling after shave experience. It is quick drying, easy to apply, and priced affordably. Users love its refreshing, masculine scent as well as its shine free finish. We think it is no surprise that GQ, Esquire and Men’s Health have featured Harry’s Post-Shave Balms among some of their top recommendations.
Also, worth checking out is Harry’s assortment of other grooming products. Most noteworthy is the fact that the brand owns a century old German factory for the production of razor blades. Pair one of Harry’s post-shave balms with a set of their razors and an aftershave for a complete set. Or offer one of the brand’s elegant shaving kits as a gift for the man in your life.
5. Meridian | The Trimmer
Courtesy of Meridian
A true innovator in men’s grooming, Meridian brings you a newer, safer product for your down-under care regimen. Designed for hair removal in the most sensitive areas—chest, back, and groin—this trimmer targets stubborn, difficult to remove hairs without damaging your skin. Forget the nicks and snags brought to you by the old-fashioned razor blade; Meridian’s product prioritizes your safety and convenience.
In order to take the stress out of down-under grooming, Meridian’s trimmer is waterproof for use in and outside the shower. It comes with a flexible USB charger which gives you up to ninety minutes of juice in a single go. The trimmer’s hygienic, rust-resistant blade is also easy to replace. With Meridian’s sleek, modern, and functional design, the art of manscaping has never been simpler.
6. Claus Porto | Alface Bar Soap
Courtesy of Claus Porto
Don’t be fooled by the reference to traditional bar soap; Claus Porto’s divine bath soap is anything but boring. Its layered scent profile is composed of three tiers of fragrances—top notes of bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, and green leaf; heart notes of waterlily, neroli, and jasmine; and base notes of cedar, amber, and musk. The result is one of the best smelling soaps you’ve ever laid hands on.
Claus Porto’s soap is enriched with shea butter, for a generous lather suitable for any skin type. Its unique formula is milled three separate times to give you the most possible washes in a single bar. As an added bonus, each bar comes wrapped in vintage Art Nouveau-inspired packaging, which is sure to add a splash of color to your bathroom. Needless to say, Claus Porto’s Alface Bar Soap makes the perfect gift.
7. Byrd | Lightweight Conditioner
Courtesy of Byrd
Inspired by the American surf culture of the sixties, Byrd products are designed for a stylish, yet effortless look. This lightweight conditioner is no exception: it keeps your hair incredibly soft, free of tangles, and easy to manage. Made in California, Byrd’s formula uses a nutritious blend of rice, baobab, and quinoa to fortify hair and prevent damage. Meanwhile, sea kelp, green tea, aloe vera, and vegetable-derived glycerin keep your hair manageable through any environmental conditions. And in case this sounds too good to be true, Byrd’s formula is free of sulfates, mineral oil, parabens, and phthalates.
We’re also partial to Byrd’s fun-loving package design featuring playful yellow lettering on a black background. It is no surprise that women enjoy Byrd products as much as men do. For best results, use Byrd’s conditioner in combination with the company’s purifying shampoo.
8. Jack Black | Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20
Courtesy of Jack Black
Every guy loves a great face moisturizer! And we believe that Jack Black’s double duty face moisturizer is one of the best ones you can find. As a 2-in-1 formula, Jack Black smooths your face as it protects it from the sun’s harmful rays. Enriched with macadamia nut oil, jojoba oil, and glycerin, the moisturizer provides lasting hydration without the heaviness typical of other products. Particularly suitable for oily skin, it keeps your skin’s natural oils at bay for comfort that lasts until your next application. And its refreshing masculine scent makes a good thing even better.
Over long-term use, Jack Black’s double duty face moisturizer leaves your skin youthful and blemish free. Though this moisturizer is certainly one of our pricier options, we believe the expense to be well worth it.
9. Duke Cannon | Lip Protectant
Courtesy of Duke Cannon
Lip balm is an item that we rarely associate with masculinity, yet chapped lips plague males and females alike. To breach this gap, Duke Cannon designed a lip protectant that is decidedly for men. Tested by active military personnel, this lip balm holds up to some of the most trying environmental conditions. Fortified with SPF 15 against harmful ultraviolet rays, Duke Cannon’s lip protectant withstands temperatures of up to one hundred degrees.
With an all-natural list of ingredients, this lip balm is as gentle as it is hydrating. Organic sunflower oil, beeswax, organic coconut oil, soothing shea butter, and minty fresh peppermint are only a few of the ingredients that make up Duke Cannon’s special formula. The lip balm also promises to be up to four times as wide as your usual chapstick. Finally, its classic peppermint scent will leave you wanting more between each application. Keep in mind that Duke Cannon offers a subscription service for additional discounts on any of its products.
10. Hims | Non-Prescription Hair Kit
Courtesy of Hims
No one wants to talk about hair loss. But periods of thinning hair are something we may all experience at one time or another. For this reason, we’ve included Hims’ prescription free hair loss kit as one of our best men’s grooming products in 2022. Available without the consult of a physician, Hims’ hair kit is safe and gentle enough for any scalp. The hair kit contains a combination of three products designed to stop hair loss and encourage new hair growth, while keeping your hair healthy in the meantime.
So, what can users find inside the kit? First, minoxidil drops promote blood circulation to the scalp. Next, Hims’ thickening shampoo cleanses buildup, unblocks follicles, and stimulates new growth. And last, B7 vitamins help support healthy hair and nails. With Hims, you can also order online to avoid that drugstore trip that we all dread. In case you’re not convinced, book a consultation with one of Hims’ online specialists.
11. Osea | Undaria Algae Body Oil
Courtesy of Osea
As an even more luxurious alternative to body lotion, we recommend Osea’s hydrating algae oil. Infused with natural seaweed, this body oil tones, uplifts, and moisturizes your skin without excessive grease. Osea’s unbelievable body oil also happens to be a product of true artisanal craftmanship: each batch of Undaria algae is hand harvested and soaked in oil for as long as six months. Traces of Undaria seaweed sediment remain at the bottom of each bottle as a testament to the product’s marine origins.
Although Osea’s oil uses sea algae as one of its major ingredients, it carries none of the fishy, seaweed smell. Instead, the body oil is scented with refreshing notes of citrus—bitter grapefruit, fresh lime, and cool cypress. It can be used daily as an after shower treat or saved for a special massage oil for your loved one. Even though this body oil is most definitely a splurge, a little product goes a long way. Alternatively, Osea’s oil makes a luxurious gift.
12. Aesop | Parsley Seed Antioxidant Intense Serum
Courtesy of Aesop
A newer invention from a true skin care classic, Aesop’s Antioxidant Intense Serum is a tiny bottle of product with a powerful punch. Practically weightless upon application, Aesop’s serum creates an imperceptible film that acts to defend the skin against airborne particles. This breathable film, composed mainly of red algae and tara gum, makes Aesop’s Intense Serum particularly suitable for city residents.
Antioxidant rich extracts of grape seed, green tea, and parsley seed deliver additional hydration for a 2-in-1 effect. Shielding your skin against harmful pollutants, Aesop lets you live as busily as you intend without stressing out your skin. Users add that the serum lasts a remarkably long time; a single drop is enough for an entire day’s worth of protection.
13. Topo Designs | Dopp Kit
Courtesy of Topo Designs
There was no way we could offer you all of these amazing grooming products without a place to store them. Moreover, nobody wants to find their new manscaping tools scattered all over the apartment. This is probably how Topo Designs came up with the perfect storage case—the Dopp Kit.
A triangle shaped male compact, The Dopp Kit has been hitting all of the top charts in men’s grooming. The Dopp Kit is perfect for both home and travel. Its interior is roomy enough for all of your favorite products, while its exterior is flexible enough to pack. A convenient side strap makes the case easy to carry or hang up. Meanwhile, its heavy-duty zipper keeps products secure during your trips. A nylon, water resistant interior protects the Dopp Kit against unexpected spills and makes for simple cleaning. The Dopp Kit also comes in a variety of fun colors designed especially for men. We personally love it in the subdued orange shade Topo Designs calls “clay.”
14. Tineco | MODA ONE Smart Ionic Hair Dryer
Courtesy of Tineco
For the guy who loves his gadgets as much as his looks, Tineco offers a product that is as smart as it is functional. Tineco’s MODA ONE hair dryer is the only hair dryer in the world that uses smart sensor technology to optimize your grooming experience. The dryer works by sensing which hairs are more or less dry to distribute heat and air flow accordingly. An LED light ring on the dryer’s surface changes color according to your hair’s condition. As a result, Tineco’s MODA ONE Ionic Hair Dryer gives you a quick dry without the excessive heat damage caused by more traditional products. And with Tineco’s compatible mobile app technology, you can toggle between different drying modes for an even more flexible style. Stop stealing your mom’s favorite hair dryer and pick up this innovative Tineco product today.
Still want to learn more about grooming products designed for men? Check out our frequently asked questions for some additional tips and tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are male and female grooming products truly different?
If you find yourself wondering whether designed for men products are true to their description, then we have something that may ease your mind. While male and female-oriented marketing certainly increases sales, there is at least some science behind the distinction. Made for men products, in other words, are not just another marketing gimmick!
The first thing to understand is the fact that male and female skin is fundamentally different. Increased amounts of testosterone leave male skin more acne prone than female skin. Men have more body hair, a higher density of sweat glands, and in general, oilier skin. Also, male skin can be up to 25% thicker than their female counterparts’.
To address these differences, male products deliver their active ingredients in higher quantities. They are better equipped against oily skin and are enriched with added moisture to accommodate for tougher skin. Female skin products tend to be less concentrated and milder in their effect.
When it comes to hair, male products typically target hair loss while female products focus predominantly on styling. Since men have shorter and thicker hair, male hair products are actually lighter and easier for absorption.
Of course, another thing to consider in all areas of grooming products is fragrance. Male centric scents usually contain herbal, “woodsy,” and musky notes for a more masculine vibe. Female products veer towards more fruity, flowery notes. Scent free products work equally well for men and women. In spite of all the above differences, some men and women use their products interchangeably, often borrowing from one another.
What are some of the best ingredients to look for in products designed for men? Which ingredients should you avoid?
Ingredients we love:
Hyaluronic Acid is one of the most versatile skincare substances, helping the skin retain moisture on a cellular level. Relatively harmless and unlikely to cause irritation, hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring compound. For maximum hydration, look for hyaluronic acid at the beginning of the ingredient list.
Antioxidants commonly appear in skin products to decrease inflammation and decrease signs of aging. They also protect the skin against free radicals, such as those found in UV sunlight and environmental pollution. Look for antioxidants to avoid redness, blemishes, and inflammation.
Sunscreen is an important ingredient to look for in men’s products because men have higher instances of skin cancer than their female counterparts. Sunscreen also protects the skin from irreversible damage, aging, and unsightly burns. These days, it is easy to find a skin cream infused with sunscreen. Look for SPF 30 or higher for best results.
Retinol is both an anti-wrinkle ingredient and a powerful tool against acne. Retinol stimulates the production of new skin cells to help do away with lines and wrinkles. It can also reverse the effects of prior skin damage such as discoloration and sunburn.
Ingredients to avoid:
Alcohol frequently appears in skin care products to reduce oiliness. However, it can be problematic when used in the long term. Relying on too many alcohol-based products can strip the skin of the oil it needs to protect itself from external harm. If this sounds like it could be the case, look for an alcohol-free label during your next trip to the drugstore.
Phthalates are mostly used in fragranced beauty products. Unfortunately, phthalates have been linked to endocrine issues, particularly in young men.
Triclosan is a common antibacterial formula that has recently been linked to some serious adverse effects—namely, endocrine issues and certain cancers. Look out for triclosan in products designed for intense wear, such as sports gels or washes.
Parabens typically act as preservatives in a large selection of beauty products. Due to their relatively easy absorption by the skin, parabens have been linked with certain types of cancer.
What are some ways you can get the best out of your grooming ritual?
If you are unsure where to start, the shower is your safest bet. Not only is using products before you clean your skin ineffective, but it can also cause buildup. Begin your routine with an early morning shower, using an exfoliating soap or body wash for the deepest clean. Two to three times a week, you can also up your game with a facial cleanser
When it comes to washing your hair, you may be tempted to reach for the shampoo bottle on a daily basis. However, experts have found that excessive shampooing strips the hair of its natural defenses. Instead, lather up with a conditioner to leave your hair refreshed without the damaging results.
If you plan to shave your face, the best time to do so is after you wash, but before you moisturize. For a smoother shave, apply some shaving cream before you start. Finish off with an aftershave to moisturize the skin and prevent ingrown hairs.
For a more intense facial moisturizer, don’t be afraid to try a serum. Though this may sound like entering new territory, a serum is essentially a more potent version of your typical moisturizing cream. Serums work particularly well in the areas around the eyes, which tend to suffer the most damage from environmental factors.
Be consistent with your fragrance! If you enjoy using cologne after a shower, opt for an unscented bodywash. On the other hand, if you have no cologne on hand, choose a deodorant with a strong masculine scent. It helps to have a few signature scents among which you can alternate on a daily basis. Just remember that less is always more.
For even more customized suggestions, do not hesitate to set up an appointment with your dermatologist.
What exactly is manscaping? Why is it necessary?
A term that has recently seen much attention, manscaping still remains a mystery to many of us. Merriam Webster’s dictionary describes “manscaping” as “the trimming and shaving of a man’s body hair so as to enhance his appearance.” While many men remove back, chest, and pubic hair for aesthetic reasons only, recent studies have shown us that manscaping is about more than just the looks. Removing hair that grows in difficult-to-reach area leads to better hygiene, increased comfort, and fewer infections of the skin. Thanks to many innovative products, such as the Meridian trimmer featured above, manscaping has become simpler and safer than before. Not to mention that many ladies much prefer the look.