Beauty: Beyond basics

Men's beauty - sorry, self-care - products are still a marketer's version of masculinity, least any poor bloke be given a complex about showing a little pride in his appearance. Hence we have scrubs not cleansers, gas not mousse, refueller instead of moisturiser.

But the days of there being anything unusual about men buying, or filching, beauty products or heading off for specialised treatments or even pampering are long gone. The rise of secondary product options beyond the well-established beauty brands shows how the market is maturing, with a growing range of natural and specialist salon options to choose from.

Here are a few newer ways to upgrade your appearance.

Kiehl's Facial Fuel $55

Cult American apothecary's vitamin C and E-enriched non-oily men's moisturiser is, like all Kiehl's products, packaged in a straight-forward bloke-friendly way. Helps freshen and smooth skin. Kiehl's consultants are big on customer education and sampling of this new to New Zealand range, so try the soothing Close-Shavers Cream ($39) too.
(Exclusive to Smith & Caughey's Queen St or order on (09) 354 2379.)

aMENity Foot Spray $45

Enough to last for four months, this mix of herbal extracts and menthol comes in a bottle with a lockable 360deg sprayer so you can carry it around to nuke odours and bacteria on feet. An extension of a mid-priced fragrance-free salon skincare range from the States. (Stockists (09) 925 0445 or see www.amenity.co.nz)

Murad Razor Burn Rescue $78.50

Part of a dermatologist-developed range for men which is at the cutting edge (and more pricey end) of specialist skincare. This serum contains healing antioxidants anti-inflamatories for use after shaving. Glycolic acid unclogs follicles and tea tree oil combats bacteria.
(From Caci Medispas and Mecca Cosmetica, Ponsonby Rd.)

* Also recommended for problem shavers, Dermalogica's men's skincare regime, including shave cream ($39.50).

Karen Murrell Aqua River Face Cream $42.50

Stylish matte black recyclable pump dispenser for a matte finish moisturiser from this environmentally friendly boutique New Zealand brand. Most Karen Murrell products are unisex (there are good balms), but this cream is specifically designed with men's post-shave needs in mind. It contains soothing aloe vera, tamanu oil and anti-bacterial kanuka extract. It's perfume-free. (Farmers or for other stockists see www.karenmurrell.com)

* Also recommended for those wanting a natural alternative, Trilogy's four-step men's range includes an SPF moisturiser.

Essie Man-e-cure $25

Well-cared for nails, like shiny shoes, are a sign of a man who makes an effort. This strengthening coat isn't shiny, but gives nails a healthy finish. Paint on yourself, or go get a manicure and see the difference cuticle care and nail shaping can make.
(www.nbar.co.nz)

Guinot Moisturizing and Soothing After-shave Balm $93

Long-established French range which also offers in-salon treatments, including infusing facials. This calming balm is designed to be used in conjunction with a cleansing foam, exfoliating gel and anti-fatigue eye gel.
(For salon stockists ph 0800 223 288.)

Burt's Bees men's travel kit $49.95

Another all-American range, this naturally based skincare has a global following, with the handy kit a good introduction to what Burt's offers for boys. Take it to the gym or away for the weekend. The lip balms are recommended.
(Smith & Caughey's and selected pharmacies, health and gift stores. Freephone 0508 734 466.)