Mr Vanguard - Eau de Parfum

As expectations go, the grooming market for us boys was always going to be big, however exploding into the multi-billion dollar industry has thoroughly proved the doubters wrong. My colleagues at The Amazing Blog inform me that within that market, the growth of  male fragrances has been extraordinary - a glance along the shelves in any perfumier exemplifies the range available. The array of bottles and concoctions designed in a myriad of shapes, colours and textures which would not be out of place in an art gallery, scream out for our attention - and of course our hard earned cash.

So, it is something of a breath of freshly scented air that Mr Vanguard arrived in 2017 offering up a discreet, and yet highly individual fragrance to challenge the huge marketing budgets of the larger brands.  Founded by Emmanuel Omoyele he commented that he wanted to “Develop a new generation of fragrance, merging quality, innovation and style.” He was determined to create a debut scent that was distinctive and a brand that fed the psyche of the contemporary man. Thus, proving that success stems from the core certainty of a winning product, rather than the hype of a huge advertising campaign. And the groaning shelf of awards Mr Vanguard has been decorated with is proof positive that these guys have a true winner on their hands, being awarded Best New British Brand, in Pure Beauty Awards 2018.

The fragrance has top notes of bergamot, grapefruit and coconut, along with jasmine, lily of the valley and rose; we’re transported to the tropical climates of The Far East and The Caribbean, finishing with the base notes of amber, vanilla, cedar wood and patchouli. A complex mix, with several layers, but ultimately a fresh and clean scent that will not overpower. The bottle itself is a triumph of self-restraint - clean and clear glass, angular in shape, simple no nonsense masculinity. Currently only available online here and competitively priced at £64.99 for 50ml, this self-assured fragrance is fast garnering a wide and loyal following, with exciting plans to expand distribution and availability.

Etch Taper - Shave Gel

Increasingly for us boys at The Amazing Blog the once daily chore of keeping our beard in check, has transformed into an art form of near perfectly precise sculpting of the hair, both on our head and our face. Inevitably around this new phenomenon, a thriving commercial model has emerged not only of barber shops opening at an impressive rate on our high streets, but also now an extensive range of grooming products, designed specifically  for the professionals which are offered also to each of us.

Etch Taper - Shave Gel is one such glorious find, and is the brain child of an entrepreneurial biomedical engineer with a fascinating interest in the revered world surrounding the barber’s shop chair, which went a bit further than simply having the ultimate buzzcut. Dr Salman Malik’s story is an inspiration to those who identify with the entrepreneurial hold that takes place when the potential of a solid idea germinates into the foundation stone for the construction of a brand. As if Dr Malik didn’t have enough to concentrate on with securing two Masters Degrees and a PhD, he also found time to study the art of cutting hair, all gleaned from the wonders of the internet - YouTube and Instagram, take a bow - and from this point, gained a loyal client base of eager heads needing to be kept in tiptop shape at the weekends.

Clearly a chap who is driven in an inexhaustible pursuit of knowledge, the nexhet challenge came in trying to source the perfect gel - if we remember his background, the fact his focus was on the perfect formulation of the ingredients with a very clear goal in mind, can come as no surprise at all. In this he was fastidious in producing ‘a shave gel that worked’, and thus we have at our fingertips the glorious golden elixir  he has produced is a slick, clear golden gel which allows us to see what we are doing, whilst lubricating the skin and follicles which are destined for a trim. The fragrance is peppermint based and key ingredients include witch hazel and aloe vera to soothe. It’s so cools as it glides on, and because of its transparent consistency, we can actually be far more precise in the shave job at hand.

Salman hasn’t stopped there, with a marketing campaign as slick as his product - the visual pull from the pharmacy shelf is given high prominence, understanding his target market, and keeping the message clear and succinct. Something tells us his attention to detail will continue to come through as he works towards the dream of opening his own barbershop, and then taking his brand global. When you see how far he has come in a comparatively short time, it would be a short-sighted person who doubted such an outcome; increasing your Instagram following fivefold in just a few months, and securing three distributors is testament to that.

On the subject of distribution, and where we can all get some of this magic formulation to enjoy, check out  where the golden gel (250ml) is available to buy here for £13.00 .

Percy Nobleman - Beard Care Range

Here at The Amazing Blog, we're loving the fact that men's grooming habits are becoming more and more prominent. From beard decorations to a perfectly slicked back hairstyle, men's grooming trends are really becoming a talking point, which obviously the men here in the office love. Naturally, with trends come products, so we're happy to sport a perfectly preened beard thanks to the Percy Nobleman natural beard care range. 

Whatever you beard needs, Percy Nobleman’s beard care range has it covered, with a comprehensive collection consisting of a Premium Beard Oil, Beard Balm, Beard Wash, Moustache Wax and a Beard Comb. Formulated with the finest of natural ingredients, Nobleman's beard wash cleanses your facial hair without stripping it of its natural oils, as, let's face it, why should it be treated with any less care than the hair on your head? Team it up with the premium beard oil to thicken the beard, for a more intensive treatment which is best applied with the exotic pud wood beard comb. To give your beard an immaculate finish, worthy of any gentleman, the beard balm further conditions your facial hair before you style as you wish with the moustache wax. We particularly love that the products also give out a mild citrus scent, so as well as looking dapper, you'll be smelling fresh too.

We're pleased to finally give our beards the grooming care they need, thanks to this suave collection of products, perfect for any gentleman. Get the range here, with prices ranging from £16.99 to £24.99.

Dear Barber

Vanity Fair is not only a place for women but it also welcomes men. Here at The Amazing Blog we know that very well and that’s why we want to present you with the hair and beard range from Dear Barber. From tip to toes it will take care of you with classy scents and high quality products.

If you’re one of those who thinks it’s all about hair or nothing, prepare yourself for an incredible range of cream and pomades that will help you sculpting, shaping and controlling.
Humidity has never been friendly with curly hair, so if this is your main concern put your head in the safe hands of Pomade. It’s a gel that works as a cover and protect your curls, avoiding frizzy hair. Despite other products with the same texture, Dear Barber created a gel that won’t make your hair feel heavy at all and they’ll look naturally neat and shining.

The Shaping Cream is what you’re looking for if you need hold but with a smooth and flexible final touch. This cream is simply stunning, once on your hair it disappears and doesn’t leave any trace of the product. 

For those who love more definition Dear Barber presents Fibre and Mattifier. They both have a waxy texture and are ideal for deconstructed styles but, where Fibre is more for an elastic sculpting result, the Mattifier will shape and hold the boldest styles.

Hair is very important but a beard and moustache are the business card of your face. And Dear Barber couldn’t let them down. That’s why we can gladly tell you something more about the Shave Oil, Beard Oil and Moustache Wax. The oils will protect your skin, preparing the beard for shaving and giving a final sheen touch, while the wax will guarantee perfect hold and shape whatever is your moustache style.

The entire range has a vague retro style and so does the Gentlemen’s Fragrance with its vintage but contemporary twist.  This is the perfect hair and beard care for you or your partner this Christmas. Go buy yours here at Dennis Williams for £45.95.

Braun - Waterflex Shaver

The holidays are fast approaching, and here at The Amazing Blog, we are always looking for the next best product to buy our loved ones. For those with a special man in your life, search no more. Braun’s Waterflex Wet & Dry Shaver is the perfect gift to keep your man looking clean-shaven and well groomed.

Braun prides itself on producing products that consumers want and need. Its entire product development process is consumer-centric. The company brings in hundreds of participants to discuss new trends, ideas or products in areas of both male and female grooming, which means everything they design is designed specifically with your needs in mind.

The Waterflex Wet & Dry Shaver is a perfect example of this. Its 33° pivoting shaver perfectly adapts to every contour of the face. No longer will you look over at your man and see tiny hairs along his jaw line that went unshaven. Its foil shavers use sideway movements on the skin, giving him a more through and comfortable shave. 

The Waterflex Wet & Dry Shaver is also functional both in and out of the shower, which means it is 100% waterproof, can easily be cleaned, and can be used at any time.

Check here to see the list of retailers that sell Braun products and their prices.