Build A Skincare Routine With Facetheory.

Easily build your very own skincare routine from the wide range of products made available from Facetheory that are created to be vegan, natural, and cruelty-free. The cleverly put-together products allow the consumer to pick and choose which products they would like to use, without having to second guess if you can use the products together, which can leave you feeling confused. Facetheory take the confusion out of the skincare market and even offer unscented products to suit the most sensitive of skin types, so we can all experience the easy-to use products made in their own lab situated in the United Kingdom. Disclaimer: The links in black are not affiliated and are only used for you to find the products quicker.

Applying the right face mask will help you address some skin concerns you may have such as congestion, unbalanced skin, while helping to draw out impurities. It is important when choosing this skincare product that it is suited to your skin type and that it will help to contribute to a healthier complexion, otherwise you could see little results. The Facetheory Pink Clay AHA Face Mask uses a combination of ingredients to provide a multitasking treatment for all skin-types. Applying to a cleansed base to help the mask fulfil its potential with no interaction from other products left on the skin, the ultra-light pink clay mask should be applied evenly over the whole face. Pink clay is known to be light on the skin and is helpful to restore, soften, and deeply cleanse for a purified complexion experience. The added organic argan and jojoba oil are rich in fatty acids to hydrate and soften dry patches, while being high in Vitamin E they are a great for being non-greasy and non-irritating and are easily absorbed by the skin. Skin tone is helped by the stabilised Vitamin C included in the mask (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) is known to protect the skin from free radicals and this is why they are called an antioxidant, while the added lactic acid works gently to exfoliate dead skin cells and helps to keep the skin moisturised for longer. The gritty texture in the formulation is that of  walnut shells that offer a psychical exfoliation method, just remember your not trying to sand a bit of wood its your skin, but you can gently wash the mask off easily if you don't wish to buff the skin.
The mask is great to reach for if your looking for a combined treatment for the skin without having to use different products, the complexion looks revitalised and the skin feels hydrated and balanced all after ten minutes!

Give the skin an intense shot of non-irritating skin-loving ingredients when applying the Facetheory Regena C20 Serum that improves and protects the complexion with each application. Incorporating a 20% stabilised Vitamin C (sodium ascorbyl phosphate) in the formulation to brighten and help uneven skin tone, this water-soluble stable form (ferulic acid stabilises it) protects the skin from free radical damage and has been shown to be helpful for those who suffer with spots and acne. The gentle lactic acid also helps to buff away dead skin cells and helps the barrier function of the skin to function better, helping the skin to retain its moisture. Boosting the skins elasticity is welcomed from the dill herb extract that firms and smooths signs of ageing, while the liquorice root extract soothes with its anti-inflammatory benefits and helps to combat pigmentation and sun spots. Shaking the bottle to activate the ingredients, apply to areas of the face you wish to treat or all over for a multi-tasking skin treatment with the easy application from the dropper tool. The serum appears to be of a milky colour and glides over the skin really easily to instantly hydrate the skin with hyaluronic acid, squalane, aloe vera and Vitamin B5 panthenol, without leaving the skin feeling greasy or sticky and ready for application of your chosen moisturiser and sunscreen. Incorporating a topical Vitamin C into your skin care routine has been shown to promote collagen production, while also helping to shield the skin from daily aggressors, this is why it is suggested to use with a sunscreen in your routine as it boosts the protection! The Regena C20 Serum works well with other products you may use in your skin care routine, but certainly includes all the skin care benefits you may want when looking for a face serum to use.

Hydrate and treat the lips when applying the Facetheory Lipabalm Bioactive Lip Balm that is a new vegan-friendly lip product that doesn't use beeswax or petroleum as a base. The creamy formula incorporates hydrating ingredients that can also boost collagen, while also helping to reduce inflammation that can impact the lips. Containing a raspberry seed extract (raspberry seed oil/tocopheryl succinate aminopropandiol) it acts as an excellent skin conditioner to provide relief for lips that are distressed and in need of comfort, along with Ricinus communis seed oil (caster oil) that has been used for centuries for its skincare benefits. Hydrating the lips with cocos nucifera oil that is a natural humectant and stops moisture loss, butyrosepermum parkii butter penetrates the skin to help repair and soothe, without leaving that greasy feeling you can experience from petroleum, beeswax or mineral oil lip products. The lithospermum erythrorhizon (gromwell root extract) used in Chinese medicine is known to soothe, while also helping to aid in skin dryness by producing a moisturising effect and alleviating water loss from already dry compromised skin. The lip balm is nicely presented in an amber glass jar and can be easily transferred to the lips by either using your fingertips or any lip brush you may own. Gliding over the lips easily, the hydrating and non greasy formula immediately nourishes, while a light coconut taste can be detected if you lick your lips from the cocos nucifera (coconut) extract ingredient included. The lip balm is an essential lip-treatment that can be used to nurture the lips if u have used any drying lip cosmetic products, you are looking for an overnight lip balm, or wanting a travel-friendly lip care product that will prime and prep your lips for the day x Neil.

Shop all Products here: Facetheory and don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMALEBLOG at the checkout! 

Dear, Klairs - Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum

Recharge the skins radiance when incorporating the Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum into your skincare routine. Launched this year, May 2023, the serum contains a mix of vitamins C, E, B3, and B5 along with madecassoside (Centella Asiatica) to not only improve the signs of aging but also improve overall tone of the complexion. Suitable for sensitive skin types, the serum utilises 10% 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid which is a vitamin C derivative that can get into the skin and be metabolized into pure ascorbic acid whilst also having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin brightening and collagen boosting properties. 

dear klairs freshly juiced vitamin charging serum

The Dear, Klairs - Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly whilst it is free from silicon oil, artificial colouring, artificial fragrance, and essential oils. The Full Ingredients:

Aqua (Water), 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Peel extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Tromethamine, Adenosine, Madecassoside, Sodium Phytate, Beta-Glucan, Tocopherol, Linolenic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer.

Applying to damp skin after cleansing morning and night, the serum instantly absorbs quickly to leave the skin perfectly hydrated and comfortable. The treatment serum can then be followed-up by applying your favourite serum and moisturiser over the top, whilst if used in the morning don't forget to use your broad-spectrum sun protection applied last! I really like how this serum combines skin hydrators and soothers with also antioxidants and skin brightening ingredients in a formula that doesn't ball-up or flake off. It is also ideal to try for those who have tried pure ascorbic acid skincare products and found they are too strong (sting) and your skin has said no thank you! 

Purchase here: Dear, Klairs - Freshly Juiced Vitamin Charging Serum and don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMALE1 x Neil. 

8 Simple Fashion Tips To Improve Your Appearance

Looking your best at all times is essential. This is because your appearance can increase or decrease your status among your peers, making it important to prioritise it. However, looking good doesn't always come naturally. Like any other skill, this can be learned and improved upon. You need to learn basic fashion tips to transform your appearance. Here are a few you can consider to achieve the desired results.

1. Get A Watch

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A watch is a vital fashion piece for men; you should invest in it to look stylish. Your watch should be personal yet practical as it marks your evolution through time. Additionally, it should be functional and beautiful. Getting a watch proportional to your wrists is also important to ensure comfort.

2. Emulate your idols, don't impersonate them.

Every man has a public figure that they admire for their fashion. However, a common fashion mistake that can entrap you is impersonating celebrities instead of simply taking inspiration from their style. Whether your idol is Ryan Reynolds or The Rock (Dwayne Johnson), you can emulate their style without striving to be like them. Impersonation doesn't work as it doesn’t create originality; in other words, a style that looks great on a celebrity may not work for you.

3. Know When To Change Your Hairstyle.

Haircuts form a core part of men's fashion today, so you should know when to visit your barber for a new makeover. Even if your current hairstyle has served you greatly, there will come a time when you will want to switch things up and change your looks. For instance, your dreadlocks may not match your buttoned-up vibe lately, so now could be the time to get a new style. Again, you may have left the corporate office for a long time and need an unconventional haircut to reflect your new-found freedom. Whatever the case, there are several ways to redefine your hairstyle ranging from the iconic 1990s men's hairstyles to classy modern haircuts like undercut, taper fade, and high top. 

4. Cherish Quality. 

Although picking cheap things may seem more affordable, you would spend more in the long run; low-quality garments break down faster. Whether you are shopping for new shoes, denim or a hat, invest in quality once and for all. This way, you can get items that uplift your style and last longer. As a tip, consider the cost per wear to help you make the right decision. For example, buying a less expensive suit may wear out faster, causing you to need a new one sooner. Therefore, getting high-quality options is better. This leads to the next point. 

5. Wear Your Suit Well. 

The main key to wearing your suit well is ensuring it fits you. If you buy your clothes off-the-peg, consider they fit you across your shoulders. A classic suit is ideal and practical: black, two buttons, single-breasted with minor details. Think of your suit as a uniform -- how you wear it matters more than the label inside. 

6. Dialling Your Fit. 

You can overcome 90% of your fashion challenges by dialling in your fit. Some guys wear oversized things because they think "big" usually feels more comfortable. However, wrong outfit sizes can affect your body proportions, making you look sloppy, fatter, and shorter than your actual height. Whether rocking a t-shirt, jeans or jacket, the right fit will make you look stylish effortlessly.

7. Hang out With Stylish People.

The people you move with can greatly influence your actions, dress, behaviour, and mindset. Surrounding yourself with stylish people is a good way to improve your appearance since you would learn from the best. Therefore, it's up to you to gravitate towards people who share your goals, so feel free to consider this.

8. Begin With The Basics And Build With Staples.

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James Bond, one of the fashion world's most celebrated characters, rarely wears flashy stuff. Instead, he sticks with the basics and always does that in luxurious ways. Rather than spending your resources on flashy materials that limit how often you can wear them, consider investing in basic products that can be worn more frequently. Basic solid colours or denim are the best items, and you can wear these on most occasions. Once you get the basics, you can upgrade your wardrobe by buying staples such as brighter colours and patterns.

As stated earlier, your appearance can determine how people address you. Therefore, taking the time to invest in your looks is crucial. Hopefully, these fashion tips will help you achieve the desired results x Neil. 

Shroom Skincare Mycelium Glow Brightening Serum

Utilising and harnessing the benefits of mushrooms, Shroom Skincare have cleverly included them in their Mycelium Glow Brightening Serum to boost the skins overall health. Extensive research with clinical studies have found bioactive compounds found in mushrooms such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and antioxidants that not only improve skin hydration and soothe inflammation but also stimulate collagen and protect the skin against environmental stressors. The vegan friendly and cruelty-free skincare brand also source sustainable ingredients whilst also taking into consideration to reduce their waste and minimise their carbon footprint, but that is not all. The gluten-free products DO NOT contain parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates, mineral oil, oxybenzone, coal tar, sulfates, SLS & SLES which all adhere to Sephora's clean beauty standards. 

The Mycelium Glow Brightening Serum not only contains those incredible mushroom extracts but it also includes antioxidant and emollient rich skin-loving oils with a stable form of vitamin c. The hypoallergenic oil-based serum is suitable for all skin types and is non-comedogenic being easily absorbed by the skin because the skin accepts and absorbs oil-based ingredients better than water-based ingredients. Lets take a look at what this serum contains:

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil - Most similar to human sebum, it has excellent emollient properties by absorbing into the skin whilst also forming a protective layer.   

Squalane - Skin-identical emollient that is lightweight and non-greasy making it suitable for all skin types. 

Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Oil -  Skin nourishing fatty acid oil that provides emollient and moisturising benefits to the skin. 

Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Seed Oil -  Antioxidant plant oil that provides hydrating, soothing, and replenishing benefits.

Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil - Emollient plant oil that contains fatty acids to keep skin hydrated whilst also protecting and improving a damaged/irritated skin barrier.

Grifola Frondosa Fruiting Body Extract - Mushroom-derived polysaccharide that provides skin-soothing properties whilst also defending the skin from environmental stressors.

Maitake Mushroom - Potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties protect the skin, improve appearance of elasticity and reduce visible redness and inflammation.

Ganoderma Lucidum Extract Reishi Mushroom - Supports hydration and visibly healthy skin. Reishi contains powerful beta-glucans, which can help to calm dry, itchy skin.

Inonotus Obliquus Chaga Mushroom Extract - Protects the skin while helping cells repair. Reduces inflammation. Chaga mushrooms have unique super antioxidants that can protect our cells from free radicals.

Cordyceps Sinensis Extract - Supports balanced, even skin tone and helps prevent the visible breakdown of collagen, which is vital for giving elasticity to the skin.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (VC) - 3% stable and oil-soluble form (Derivative) of vitamin c that can easily penetrate and absorb into the skin to increase collagen synthesis whilst also providing skin brightening benefits and antioxidant protection from both UVB and UVA rays

Tocopheryl Acetate (VE) - Antioxidant vitamin e that defends the skin from pollutants and other environmental stressors.

Fragrance - Helps the formulation smell nice but it is not overwhelming in this product, it kind of smells like aloe?

Presented in a glass bottle accompanied with a dropper tool for easy dispensing, you can either apply the serum on its own onto a cleansed skin or after any water-based serum. The mycelium glow is an oil-based treatment serum so can be applied before any moisturiser and because it absorbs quite quickly it does not leave the skin feeling greasy. I typically only need 3 drops per application for it to leave my skin feeling perfectly hydrated, nourished, and my complexion looking rejuvenated whilst it does not ball-up or flake off because there are no silicones in the formulation! Highly recommended if you are looking for a multitasking lightweight oil that not only contains the benefits of mushrooms but also includes exceptional antioxidants! Purchase here: Mycelium Glow Brightening Serum and don't forget to use my discount code: BLONDEMAELBLOG at the checkout x Neil.

Haruharu WONDER - Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen

The reef safe Haruharu WONDER - Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen is lightweight in texture with no white cast when applying whilst offering SPF50+ PA++++ protection against UVA and UVB rays. The innovative chemical formula is infused with Ceramide NP, Heartleaf Extract, Adenosine, and Niacinamide for supporting and improving the skin while Haruharu WONDER have included their black rice oil and extract for extra hydration and antioxidant benefits. 

The vegan-friendly Haruharu WONDER - Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen is FREE from Phthalates, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, drying alcohols, synthetic dyes, and artificial fragrances. The full ingredients of the cruelty-free and broad-spectrum sunscreen are as follows:

Water, Dibutyl Adipate, Propanediol, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Tromethamine, Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Methicone, Polysilicone-15, Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Flower Extract, Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea Fruit Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Bellis Perennis (Daisy) Flower Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Palmitic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Poly C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate, Methylpropanediol, Carbomer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Polyether-1, Myristic Acid, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Tocopherol, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Ceramide NP, Phytosphingosine, Phenethyl Alcohol, Sodium Chloride, Disodium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Phosphate.

Presented in eco-friendly packaging, the sunscreen is contained in an air-less tube with pump applicator and should be applied generously after your moisturiser, but before makeup. The sunscreen does glide on to the face and neck easily whilst absorbing quickly to leave a protected film over the skin that feels velvety to the touch. My skin feels comfortable and hydrated without feeling sticky or overly greasy so is an ideal sunscreen if your looking for one that leaves a nice finish and more importantly doesn't sting the eyes! Pick up the broad spectrum SPF here: Haruharu WONDER - Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Sunscreen and don't forget to use the discount code: BLONDEMALE1 x Neil. 

Clear For Men Invigorating Facial Cleanser

Clear For Men are a vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand that encourages men to speak more openly about their mental well-being. All their products are made in the UK and arrive with 100% Sustainable delivery packaging in which you will find the invigorating facial cleanser sitting securely inside. Cleansing the skin is extremely important to help remove dirt, pollution, excess oil and also reduce impurities and ingrown hairs. 

The paraben-free cleanser utilises mild cleansing agents to help cleanse the skin without over-stripping it, so your skin should not feel tight or dry after using it. Presented in a bottle with a pump dispenser you get 250ml of this daily cleanser with the label reminding you to take time out of your busy schedule and have some "Me Time". Dispensing a 10p sized amount to damp skin and working the cleanser over the face and neck is all you need for an exceptional cleanse, discover the ingredients listed below:

Aqua - Acts as a solvent for ingredients to dissolve in.

Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate -  Mild cleansing agent that provides a dense and luxurious foam that can easily be rinsed off leaving the skin soft.

Cocamidopropyl Betaine - Mild surfactant and cleansing agent that doesn't over-strip the skin whilst also stabilises bubbles. 

Sodium Chloride - Viscosity controlling salt that acts as a thickener in cleansing formulas.

Glycerin - Moisturiser and humectant that supports the skin lipids, protects against irritation and also helps to restore the barrier function of the skin.  

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil - Helps oil and water ingredients mix without separating in a formula whilst also being a mild surfactant and cleanser.

Niacinamide -  Multitasker Vitamin B3 that acts as a cell communicator, skin brightener, moisturiser, humectant, support and restores the skin barrier function whilst also improving acne, rosacea, and atopic dermatitis.

Phenoxyethanol - Preservative.

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer - Viscosity controller that helps thicken the products formula whilst also acting as a emulsion stabiliser to stop water and oil separating.

Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil - Astringent with skin-conditioning benefits whilst also acting as a fragrance. 

Panthenol - Pro-Vitamin B5 that acts as a moisturiser and humectant with anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits. 

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe Vera) Juice Powder - Emollient that acts a moisturiser and humectant with soothing properties.  

Benzophenone 4 - Photoprotectant to extend product shelf life and also acts as a color-protectant for products in clear packages. 

Coco-Glucoside - Mild vegetable origin cleansing agent that provides a stable foam to a products formula. 

Glyceryl Oleate - Emollient with skin-smoothing benefits whilst also acting as a co-emulsifier and stabilizer for water and oil formulas. 

Sodium Hydroxide - Adjusts the pH of a products formula.

Citric Acid - Adjusts the pH of a products formula known as buffering.

Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil - Emollient with unsaturated fatty acids oleic, linoleic, and palmitic that nourish and moisturise the skin. Antioxidant benefits are also achieved from the vitamin E it contains along with antioxidant phenols caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and epicatechin that provide soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Potassium Sorbate - Preservative.

Sodium Benzoate - Preservative. 

Tocopherol (Vitamin E) -  Fat soluble antioxidant that can easily be absorbed by the skin that protects against free-radicals whilst also having photoprotection properties.  

Hydrogenated Vegetable Glycerides Citrate - Emollient to help keep skin smooth and soft whilst also acting as an emulsifier to help water and oil ingredients mix together.

Citral - Perfumer to bring a scent to the formula.

Geraniol - Perfumer to add a fragrance to the formula. 

I don't typically reach for or use foaming cleansers in general as they over-strip and make my skin feel dry and taut, this one has been an exception to that rule! It refreshes my skin in the morning leaving it feeling soft, smooth and hydrated all day whilst my evening cleanse is made easier because it removes my daily sunscreen prepping my skin for my night time skincare products. A perfect cleanser that not only cleanses but has additional skin benefits included in its formulation, priced at £19.99 and available here: Clear For Men Invigorating Facial Cleanser x Neil.

1.5% of the sales of this cleanser goes to support Mind via Work for Good. #takefivechallenge

REN Clean Skincare Perfect Canvas Smooth, Prep & Plump Essence

Prepping the skin to aid in better absorption of your skincare products, the REN Clean Skincare Perfect Canvas Smooth, Prep & Plump Essence is an ideal product to use. Cleansing the face and then proceeding to use a toner if you wish, the essence is the next product to apply before your serums and moisturiser. Essences typically absorb deeper in the skin to provide a moisture boost whilst depending on what ingredients they contain to provide a treatment whilst supporting the skins barrier function. Disclaimer: The links used are not affiliated and are placed for you to discover the product. 

The perfect canvas smooth, prep & plump essence is featured in a glass bottle that easily dispenses the desired amount of three drops when turning upside down. Featuring four key ingredients which are hydrating bio-fermented hyaluronic acid, smoothing bio-fermented polyglutamic acid, plumping bio-fermented microbial extract and the pollution protecting marrubium extract, this essence not only delivers on its promise of smoothing, plumping, and prepping the skin but it also helps strengthen the barrier function which is extremely important.  

Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Marrubium Vulgare Extract, Sodium Gluconate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin , Sodium Polyglutamate, Parfum, Citric Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl 6 Oleate, Bacillus Ferment, Sodium Surfactin. 

The essence presents itself as a watery serum texture but glides over the skin easily with a slight scent that can be detected, but this soon fades when patting into the skin every morning and evening. It absorbs pretty quickly to leave the skin feeling hydrated and smooth but does not leave any stickiness or greasiness, just perfectly prepped skin. I have used this over two months and have applied numerous products over it and have not experienced any piling or balling up of products, it beautifully works before and in synergy with your skincare products! Priced at £43.00 and available here: Perfect Canvas Smooth, Prep & Plump Essence x Neil.