For my dad, grooming isn’t a luxury, it’s a task. He doesn’t want to think too hard about it, he doesn’t want to “go out of his way,” and he doesn’t feel like he has to — in other words, his routine is set. But every Father’s Day, instead of whiskey (he doesn’t drink) or a box of cigars (he doesn’t smoke), I give him a nice shaving cream. It’s something I know he wouldn’t ever buy for himself. And every year, he grabs the tube, squints, and says, “Thanks, Boy.” And that’s that. Though brief in gratitude, I know he enjoys it, because, for a small period of time every summer, he shaves a little better. From shaving cream to deodorant, these are the other upgrades worth considering for your dad.
Duke Cannon Big American Brick of Soap
Instead of Irish Spring: Duke Cannon’s line of “manly” bar soaps is made in the US, with a portion of proceeds going to veterans. This particular scent, “Smells Like Productivity,” is a mild combination of mint and menthol. It’s rough-cut, similar to the soap used by GIs in the Korean War, which makes it easier to grip. At 10 ounces, it’s also big. And bigger is better — at least with soap (it lasts longer, cleans more).
Kiehl’s Smooth Glider Precision Shave Lotion
Instead of Barbasol: Self-lathering foams win guys over because they’re cheap, easy and don’t take 20 minutes for the same result as a traditional wet shave. The new Kiehl’s shave lotion shares that ethos, but drops all the nasty parabens and phthalates of big-name drugstore brands. The kicker? Because of its skin-nourishing oils, such as kukui nut oil, you don’t even need water. Just apply, shave, and you’re done.
Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo
Instead of Head and Shoulders: Dandruff, itchy scalp, dull hair — help Dad treat it with a shampoo that won’t totally puff out his doo. Sachajuan’s purifying shampoo contains piroctone olamine and climbazole to remove dandruff and soothe irritated scalps, while giving hair shine and volume, without the weight of product.
Baxter of California Citrus and Herbal-Musk Deodorant
Instead of Old Spice: Ideal for sensitive skin, or any skin really, Baxter of California’s take on deodorant is straightforward, but damn near perfect. It has an appealing scent of citrus and musk. It’s both aluminum and alcohol free, which means it won’t dry out Dad’s skin, ruin his shirts, or maybe cause cancer. Let’s not take any chances — especially when there’s an alternative that smells this good.
Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm
Instead of O’Keeffe’s Working Hands Hand Cream: Dry hands happen, whether they are a result of weather, hard labor or just not enough water. Aesop’s Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm, meant to be used in tandem with the brand’s hand soap, is ideal for those prone to cracks and bleeds. It’s not gloppy and smells of sweet lavender. But most importantly, it works.
