TRIED & TESTED: Affordably hip
WHEN it comes to grooming products, the range available for both sexes is staggering. Browsing at the pharmacy aisle often gives me a headache and most times generates suspicious looks from salespersons as I would be pacing up and down and touching stuff.
my trepidation is justified. Sometimes the deodorant I finally pick and use makes me itch uncontrollably after a few days, or worse, elicit snide comments from so-called friends over my much-perfumed state.
I may have finally settled on a couple of “safe” brands but I certainly have not stopped experimenting with new ones when the mood strikes, for personal grooming (or rather, the lack of) is high on my what-not-to-inflict-on-my-fellow-humans list!
so when a whole bag of Uber.men products landed on my desk a few weeks back, you can imagine the smile I wore for the rest of the day!
It’s a brand I have not used before and it includes skincare and fragrances aside from the ubiquitous deodorant.
But first, to get the right perspective, Uber.men may sound cool, hip, sexy and all that but it’s also from the Tohtonku stable (which churns out such mass market brands as Follow me, Ammeltz and Koolfever, among others). so think affordability and above-average personal care products when gauging Uber.men, rather than high-end exclusivity. HOW THEY FARE
Oil Away Power Cleanser + Toner Effect (RM10.90, 100ml; RM15.90, 150ml)
This is my favourite. it feels like a scrub but the little particles gradually dissolve away on lathering. my face actually feels smoother and I do not detect any pulling of skin caused by undue dryness. Apparently, it’s enhanced with a gentle exfoliating Diamond Powder to refine skin surface and absorb excess oil. Acne Control Cool Cleanser (RM12.90, 100ml) Besides whitening, this has anti-bacterial functions, targeting acne scars, reducing pimples and preventing further breakouts. unfortunately, my sample seems to have dried out. it was hard to dispense and I accidentally broke the cap trying to get some on my palm. when I finally succeeded, the after-wash feeling seems to confirm that a layer remained on my face to work on the offending spots. Tracing my face with my fingers, the overall feeling was coarse. Whitening Hydra Gel Cleanser (RM11.90, 100ml) A mild face wash containing aloe vera which tackles oily skin. Not everyone will take to the peppermint-like sensation but it should do the job adequately. Indulge Power Advance Deodorant Body Spray (RM9.90, 125ml) the scent from this body spray is quite over-powering. upon application from the pressure can, the sensation is ice-cold, a feeling one will either like or recoil, as I did. Not everyone who is used to the roll-on type of deodorant will be won over by the sensation but I suppose to each his own. Spraying on fabric, rather than directly on skin, seems to enhance its aroma. Uranium Perfume Concentrate (RM19.90, 50ml) the first whiff is that of lime. while not overpowering, one comment from a close friend is that it smells like dish-washing liquid. Another kinder and perhaps more discerning view from a second astute observer is that the fresh lime aroma actually effectively masks sweat and body odour. used in moderation, this fragrance is ideal for the active, those who tend to perspire profusely. I noticed the fragrance may initially be strong on application but it gradually fades to a mild scent that is not at all unpleasant.
Search for mr Uberman
Want to be mr Uberman 2012? Held for the second year running, the award will go to a Malaysian male who will hopefully inspire the younger generation by being a trend-setter in men’s products.
Finalists will take home about RM50,000 in cash and prizes, with the winner having the chance to represent the brand in major promotional activities.
if you are 18 years and above, good-looking and think you have an outstanding personality and admirable dressing style, here’s what you need to do: • purchase RM30 of Uber.men products in a single receipt; • Attach a recent full body photograph of yourself; • Fill up the entry form and mail it (address is on the entry form); Or go to facebook.com/Ubermen.Malaysia, upload your photo and scanned receipt and fill up the entry form. to vote for your favourite mr Ubermen just go to the Facebook page and do the needful. Details at tohtonku.com.my or call 03-8023 3308 (Monday to Thursdays, 9am to 3pm only).
