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general
| 601. Grooming 101 |
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A user’s guide for the products on our site. For each product, we tell you what it does, how to use it and where to find it.
The Basics:

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Cleanser |
What does it do?
A cleanser removes dirt, excess oil, dead skin cells and other pollutants from the skin. It will also help to unclog pores and prevent blackheads and blemishes from developing. Unlike ordinary bar soap, a good cleanser should clean the skin without drying it out.
How do I use it?
Cleansing should be the first step in your routine. To use, wet face and gently massage cleanser into the face and neck. Rinse with warm (not hot) water and pat dry with a clean towel.
Is it right for me?
Everyone needs a cleanser. For normal to oily skin types, choose a cleanser that’s strong enough to remove pore-clogging dirt and oil – yet gentle enough not to dry, irritate or strip the skin of all its moisture. For dry skin, try a gentle cream cleanser. If you have sensitive skin, avoid anything containing harsh chemicals, fragrances and preservatives or look for products designed specifically for sensitive skin.
In any case, if your skin feels really dry or tight after cleansing, then the cleanser was too strong for you and you should switch to something a little milder. A little experimentation with a few different brands may be necessary.
View our full range of facial cleansers. |
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Toner |
What does it do?
A toner removes excess oil, cleans the pores and helps control shine. It also balances the skin’s pH levels and removes any residue left behind after shaving or cleansing.
How do I use it?
Use after cleansing or shaving. Apply a generous amount to a cotton wool ball, and wipe over face and neck in an ‘upwards and outwards’ motion. Can also be used mid-afternoon to combat shine.
Is it right for me?
Everyone needs a toner. If you have oily skin, choose an astringent toner. If you have dry, normal or sensitive skin, go for a hydrating toner.
View our full range of facial toners. |
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Moisturiser |
What does it do?
A moisturiser hydrates, nourishes and protects the skin. Humectant moisturisers focus on moisture retention, while occlusive moisturisers prevent moisture from evaporating.
How do I use it?
Moisturising is usually the final step in your routine. To use, gently massage a small amount into your face and neck and allow it to absorb into your skin.
Is it right for me?
Unless your face produces more oil than an oil rig, you’re going to need a moisturiser. If you have dry skin, go for a rich moisturising cream. If you have normal, sensitive or oily skin, use a lightweight or oil-free moisturiser.
View our full range of facial moisturisers. |
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Shave Cream/Gel |
What does it do?
A shave cream or gel enables the razor to glide over the skin without causing too much irritation. It also softens the hairs, making them easier to cut. If used correctly, it will help prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs.
How do I use it?
Use a shave cream or gel after cleansing, but before shaving or toning. Wet skin and apply a thin layer of the product to your face and neck. Massage in with your fingers using a light, circular motion. Alternatively, you may use a shave brush to apply the cream. To do so, apply a small amount in the palm of your hand, dip the brush in hot water and then use a circular motion in the palm to build up a creamy lather on the brush. Apply the lather to the face.
Allow a minute or two for the later to soften your beard and then proceed with the shave. When you’re finished, rinse your face with cold water and pat dry using a clean towel. For a more detailed guide, read How to Shave.
Is it right for me?
Unless you’re growing a beard, you’re going to need a shave cream/gel.
View our full range of shave creams. |
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Aftershave |
What does it do?
Protects and nourishes freshly shaved skin. Helps relieve mild post-shave irritation.
How do I use it?
As the name suggests, aftershave is best applied straight after you shave. To use, gently massage a small amount into freshly shaven skin and allow it to absorb.
Is it right for me?
If you shave infrequently, moisturise often and never experience problems with post-shave irritation you may leave this step out. For everyone else, this should be a regular part of your routine.
View our full range of aftershaves. |
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Post-Shave Treatment |
What does it do?
Combats ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
How do I use it?
Apply a very small amount to the affected area. Use after shaving and toning, as required.
Is it right for me?
If you don’t suffer from ingrown hairs or razor bumps, you can leave this step out.
View our full range of post-shave treatments. |
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Eye Treatment |
What does it do?
The skin surrounding the eye is much thinner and more delicate than the rest of the skin on your face. An eye treatment will hydrate, nourish and protect this area, and will also help minimize dark circles, puffiness and fine lines.
How do I use it?
Apply a very small amount to the end of your finger and gently dab on the skin surrounding the eye. Do not rub. Use after cleansing and toning, as required.
Is it right for me?
If you don’t suffer from dark circles, puffiness or fine lines around the eyes, you can leave this step out.
View our full range of eye treatments. |
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Facial Scrub |
What does it do?
A facial scrub exfoliates dead skin cells and revitalizes the complexion. It will also help to unclog pores and prevent blackheads, blemishes and ingrown hairs from developing.
How do I use it?
Wet skin and gently massage into the face and neck using a light, circular motion. Rinse with warm (not hot) water and pat dry with a clean towel. Use after cleansing, but before shaving or toning.
Is it right for me?
If you are prone to acne, facial scrubs can irritate and aggravate your skin, making the problem worse. For all other skin types, we would strongly recommend adding this product to your routine.
View our full range of facial scrubs. |
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Facial Mask |
What does it do?
A facial mask unclogs pores, exfoliates dead surface cells and removes impurities trapped deep in the skin. It will leave your skin feeling clean, smooth and refreshed.
How do I use it?
Steam your face over a bowl of hot water for about five minutes. Apply a smooth, thin layer of the facial mask over your face and neck, avoiding the delicate areas around your eyes and lips. Allow the mask to dry on your face (usually 10-15 minutes) and then rinse off with a warm cloth and water. Use after cleansing, but before toning.
Is it right for me?
While this is an optional treatment, we strongly recommend it – especially for those with oily or blemish-prone skin. If you have oily or combination skin, choose a clarifying clay mask. For dry, normal or sensitive skin types, a hydrating mask will work best.
View our full range of facial masks. |

Related guides
Determining Your Skin Type
Suggested Routine for Dry Skin
Suggested Routine for Normal Skin
Suggested Routine for Oily Skin
Suggested Routine for Combination Skin
Suggested Routine for Sensitive Skin
Glossary
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