As we become more aware of what is actually in our food, cleaning products, and clothing, what goes directly on our skin has also become top of mind. Environmentally friendly and often times less irritating on skin, organic and natural products are taking over the men’s self care market. There is always Manuka honey, olive oil, and coconut oil to lather on one’s skin; however, the following have been pre-mixed and bottled for us, sometimes in recyclable and reusable vessels!
Maapilim, from Tel Aviv, has created products using natural ingredients primarily from the Mediterranean. The essential oils and extracts used actually do what they claim to do and have the freshest scent. Maapilim also offers handy kits that include multiple products making for an easy purchase with a simple trial-size kit and option to purchase more in the future.
Journeymen is made in the USA and paragon and sulfate-free. Through a partnership with 1% For the Planet, Journeymen invests one percent of its sales in nonprofit organizations that help with environmental issues as well. Starting with a natural ingredient-created deodorant, Journeymen has expanded into body and face washes distilling masculine fragrances from the natural ingredients.
Brickell Men’s Products eliminates the usual synthetic and toxic chemicals and opts for natural and organic ingredients. Their Charcoal Face Wash is a huge hit, using only charcoal, peppermint, and eucalyptus to deep-clean pores and revitalize skin without any harsh chemicals. Their anti-aging line can and should also be used for any man spending time in the sun on a daily basis.
Oars + Alps’ main ingredient is Alpine Cariboud Moss, found only in the desperately cold environs of Northern Finland. Filled with antioxidants, this plant helps to increase the elasticity of skin. All Oars + Alps’ products come in a solid form, therefore TSA-approved and ideal for travel. There is no chance of spillage and the solid product does tend to last much longer. They are also fragrance-free, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing.
Shea Moisture Men is made with shea butter, cocoa butter, mango butter, and avocado all for an affordable price. On top of that, you may only need one product - the Shea Moisture Utility soap can be used on your body, face, and as a shaving lather. For those with the fullest, longest, and most luxurious beard, they also have the Full Beard Detangler to gloss up and detangle.
Dr. Squatch makes cold-pressed natural soaps that your skin will thank you for, all in the United States. Most of their soaps are vegan as well, forgoing animal fats for plant-based oils. With multiple scents to choose from, you will be able to change your scent every 2-3 weeks if you prefer to keep everyone else on their toes.
Scotch Porter never uses silicones, parabens, or artificial colors - instead they focus on combining shea, coconut, and olive oil with green tea and fennel seed. After a few uses, softer hair and skin is easily achieved. The Scotch Porter site even breaks down every single ingredient used in each product.
Natural products have moved into our self care regime quite quickly and their positives do seem to outweigh any negatives; however, for clarification purposes, the word organic is only somewhat regulated when placed on beauty products. Meaning free of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and/or other inorganic substances. If a product is less than 70 percent organic, then that brand is not allowed to use the organic terminology but it is always smart to check the ingredients in any product we bring into our home and especially our showers.
Also to note, the shelf-life of organic ingredients and products is somewhere around three months so the issue of restocking should be thought of upon purchasing. A helpful tip is to keep your organic natural products in the fridge to help preserve them and definitely toss them post-expiration.
Now now, there is no need to wake up at some ungodly hour in order to be the CEO of the next Apple or Tesla, but perfecting the morning schedule that suits you can help with productivity, diet, mental and physical health.
You wake up every morning, get dressed, caffeinate, feed yourself, and get to work - throughout this Groundhogs Day process you find yourself thinking about that passion project or small online business you wish you could dive deeper into.