Heretic "The Entomologist" Serum 100% Organic Bug Repellent

Heretic’s “The Entomologist” Serum is 100% organic bug repellent, designed to absorb quickly into the skin without causing a greasy or irritated feeling.

Narcyss Le Fix Emergency Facial Mask

Herbivore Moon Fruit Retinol Alternative Sleep Mask

Bakuchiol is an alternative to retinol, and this cream is designed to be worn at night when the skin can best absorb it and experience the benefits. It’s hydrating and formulated to lighten the appearance of wrinkles.

Herbivore Prism AHA + BHA Exfoliating Glow Serum

This exfoliating serum is made with both alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids for double the power and smooths and hydrates skin at the same time. It’s designed to be used at night, up to every other night, and paired with retinol on off nights for skin cell removal and renewal.

Biossance  Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum

Squalane is super hydrating, and this serum is perfect for men with dry skin who want even more moisture than the average cream can provide. It can be used in the morning and evening, and stacked on top of other active ingredients to lock them in. 

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + Ha 2% 30ml

The Ordinary is known for concentrated, potent formulas that don’t contain any unnecessary, filler ingredients. Their price tags are also much lower than other brands for that reason. Their lactic acid is a great gentle exfoliator and can help prevent ingrown hairs between shaves. This formula is powerful, so you only need a few drops for it to work properly, and it can be mixed in with a moisturizer or cream. 

The Ordinary Facial Treatment: 2% Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide Bundle

This serum bundle contains both a hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, two beneficial ingredients for moisturizing and improving skin tone. Niacinamide, when used consistently, can improve skin’s protective barrier, hyaluronic acid delivers multi-depth hydration more efficiently than the standard moisturizer. 

La Roche Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen, SPF 60

Hurly recommends this as a “one formula fits all” sunscreen that’s great for both the face and body as well as sensitive and fair skin. It’s water-resistant, so it’s great for workouts and will satisfy most people who aren’t looking for mineral sunscreen. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment

This Adapalene Gel is “one of the best OTC retinoids you can get, specifically for targeting acne,” said Hurly. It’s oil and fragrance-free, so it’s formulated for minimal irritation, and the vitamin A derivatives promote skin cell turnover. 

La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleansers

An effective cleanser doesn’t have to be expensive, and both the gentle and foaming cleanser from La Roche Posay proves that. “Any brand that gets prescriptive with its formulas is doing something right. This pair has been recommended to me by so many dermatologists, that I now just associate them as ‘the doctors’ favorites,’” said Hurly. 

Paula's Choice Niacinamide Booster

Both the peptide and niacinamide boosters from Paula’s Choice are among Hurly’s top picks from the brand for a balanced complexion and firm skin. They can be mixed in with other products, like a moisturizer and eye cream, for an extra bit of nutrients. 

Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster

Paula’s Choice’s multi-peptide booster contains six pro-collagen peptides that deliver nutrients to multiple layers of the skin. It’s formulated to visibly smooth lines within 15 minutes and absorb into the skin easily with a lightweight texture.

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting BHA Liquid Exfoliant

This is their most popular product worldwide because it’s one of the best liquid exfoliants you can get. The BHA (beta hydroxy acid) removes layers of dead skin so retinol can encourage cell turnover more easily. 

“Like all of Paula’s Choices’ products, it does the assigned task efficiently and thoroughly,” said Hurly. “They’re the best one-stop-shop in skincare.”

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum

Drunk Elephant’s vitamin C is one of the most potent, effective formulas available. It’s expensive, but it evens both skin tone and texture, and the bottle is opaque and doesn’t expose the formula to oxygen which spoils it very quickly. 

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

Multiple SPY editors, including Hurly, recommend this Protini Moisturizer from Drunk Elephant because of its lightweight feel and nutrient-packed formula. It’s hydrating without feeling too heavy and comes in a pumping canister designed for less wasted product. 

BEST BUBBLE BATH

Aromafloria Muscle Soak Recover Bubble Bath

Inside you, there are two wolves: one wolf spends his day pumping iron at the gym and the other wolf enjoys a nice long bubble bath at the end of the day. This is a product that’ll satisfy both. Aromafloria’s Muscle Soak Recover Bubble Bath is two products in one. The first product is a post-workout soak for sore muscles, and the second is a fun bubble bath. This bubble baths blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Lemongrass essential oils soothes your body while the bubbles soothe and distract the mind from the stresses of mammalian existence. 

BEST BATH BOMB

The Bath Bomb Co.

‘Kaboom’ is my favorite word for the sound an explosion makes. In fact, it’s what I shout whenever I plop a bath bomb into my tub. Kaboom! It’s a bath BOMB, after all, not a bath ball or a bath plume. These 7.5-ounce grenades of comfort will turn your bath into a bubbling cauldron of oh yeahhh. You know these bombs are “for men” because they’re not glittery or cotton candy color. No. These bath bombs are black, like the night. Like a ninja stalking the night.

BEST SCENTED CANDLE

Diptyque Feu De Bois (Wood Fire) Candle

There are some scents that transport me to simpler times, and the smell of a crackling wood fire is one of those. Ah, yes, I remember when I was a young lumberjack. If sickly-sweet or spicey smells don’t comfort you, may I suggest Diptyque’s Feu De Bois, which is French for ‘wood fire?” These hand-poured paraffin wax candles stink like a chimney working hard in winter. It’s a pleasant, cozy, smoky smell, the opposite of those more traditional, perfumed candles that make your room smell like chemical cupcakes.

BEST BATH SALTS

Maude Soak No. 1

Salt is good for steaks and baths, and in a perfect world, one could eat a steak while taking a bath. But this world isn’t perfect, is it? No, friend, it isn’t. But Maude Bath Soak No. 1 can help heal it a little bit. All it takes is a scoop of these hand-harvested salt crystals from the Dead Sea tossed into warm water, and then, voila, minerals like magnesium, potassium, sulfur, zinc, and more get to work loosening up your mortal coil, with the help of musky scents like amber, cedar leaf, and lemongrass.

BEST FACE MASK

Jaxon Lane Bro Mask

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to identify as a bro if you want to wear a Jaxon Lane Bro Mask. Anyone can wear a Bro Mask. There is no law against it. But if you really are a bro who wants to care for his skin and is comforted by gendered marketing that suggests this mask is ONLY for bros, then you know what? So be it. These hydrogel sheet masks are a favorite amongst SPY editors because they add glow and firmness to tired, sagging skin in no time. The sheets come in two pieces, so people with facial hair can use half! 

BEST FACE MASK

Aesop's Primrose Cleansing Masque

This product has a price tag that begs the question of its results. Can it really be worth this price tag? The answer is yes, 100 times over. Aesop’s Primrose Cleansing Masque is truly one of a kind. It has a clean, cooling tingle at the beginning and leaves the face feeling cleaner, nourished, and richer after the last rinses. The brand has a portfolio of all-vegan products and this one delivers replenishing vegetable oils to the skin. 

BEST FOOT SOAK

Mod Pod Men's Relax Bourbon Foot Soak

Do you like to relax? Do you like bourbon? Do you have aching feet? Oh boy, if you answered yes to those three questions I’ve got a treat for you. Modern Podiatrist’s Bourbon Scented Foot Soak for Men is an anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory mix of Epsom salt, citric acid, and a trio of essential oils: tea tree, vanilla, and pipe tobacco. It also smells like sweet, delicious bourbon, which is a bit on-the-nose for a men’s site but we can’t help it. Quiet your barking dogs with this healing soak.

BEST NAIL CARE KIT

Scully & Scully Men's Luxury Calfskin Manicure Sets

Again, you don’t have to be a man to buy a product that says “men” on it. There are gender neutral options that’ll clip your nails just fine, but this kit is special. It’s hard to go wrong with Scully & Scully’s elegant calfskin manicure sets for men. The stylish 5″ x 7″  leather case snaps open and shut, keeping the stainless steel nail clippers, scissors, and tweezers inside safe. There’s also a shoehorn and a pocketknife, which aren’t really grooming-specific but they are cool.

BEST HAIR MASK

Olaplex Nº.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask

What is a hair mask? Great question. It’s not what you wear when you work spooning mac and cheese onto trays at a cafeteria, first of all. It’s like a super hair conditioner that strengthens and moisturizes your hair. And before you can say, “my hair is strong and moist enough,” you’re wrong. Your hair can’t be strong and moisturized enough. That’s where Olaplex’s Nº.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask comes in. Made for all hair types, No. 8 promises a product made from all-natural ingredients that will give your mane shine and bounce. 

BEST RAZOR

Henson AL13

It may look like an airplane part or something found in a high-end toolkit, but Henson’s aerospace-grade, aluminum-based AL13 razor is a certified hit with a design that took 20 years to perfect. Its lightweight and ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip to get into all of the natural grooves and contours of the face while its adjustable head can accommodate most standard double-edged blades (though we recommend using the ones that Henson provides and sells separately for optimal results). What’s even better is that the shaving necessity is backed by a lifetime guarantee, so the top-tier price tag is easier to stomach. 

BEST RAZOR

Philips Norelco Bodygroom Series 7000

Nothing makes skin glimmer and glisten hair-free quite like Philips Norelco’s Bodygroomer. Swimmers, bodybuilders, and imminent spray tanners will appreciate this device’s flexibility. It removes hair from every nook and cranny (including the nether regions) without pain or irritation, and the double-sided blades have five adjustable lengths so you can shave or trim any strand to any length. And that shower-proof, 80-minute lithium battery? Yeah, it’s simply icing on the cake. 

BEST ELECTRIC RAZOR

Panasonic Arc5

Panasonic’s wet/dry electric shaver has a pivoting head that glides more effortlessly across the face than any other motorized option. Its linear motor delivers an impressive 14,000 cuts per minute and touts a built-in sensor that detects differences in beard density so that it can automatically adjust its trimming power. High tech, huh? Don’t be surprised when it joins the ranks of televisions, phones, and stereos as one of your desert island electronic devices. 

BEST ELECTRIC TRIMMER

Wahl Aqua Blade 9899

If you need a gadget that does it all, don’t sleep on Wahl’s uber-popular Aqua Blade 9899. It’s one of our favorites because it comes with an entire grooming kit, containing trimming blades for the body, beard, mustache, eyebrows, and even nose hairs. You can also use the guide comb attachments to touch up your scalp in between haircuts, though we highly recommend watching a few YouTube videos and using an extra-long clip before attempting it on yourself. 

BEST SHAVING CREAM

The Art of Shaving Sandalwood Shaving Cream

Precision shaving is an artform in and of itself and it’s no surprise that The Art of Shaving excels at providing hair removal necessities like its iconic sandalwood shaving cream. Upon application, the hydrating blend of all-natural botanicals creates a rich, foamy lather that protects the skin without clogging up the razor. Its scent is more subtle than the average drugstore marshmallow-in-a-can variety, and a little also goes a long way, so we don’t feel guilty about spending $35 on a 5-oz. jar. 

BEST SHAVING BALM

Clinique for Men Post-Shave Soother

We don’t care if Clinique’s apex mountain happened in the 90s and some may even consider it cheugy now, their line of men’s grooming products continues to make a mark on the oversaturated beauty industry. The post-shave soother is the brand’s crown jewel, boasting an aloe-heavy formula that cools on contact and calms the redness associated with a fresh shave. The slick balm has a pleasing texture that’s easy to apply without being slimy or thick. It’s a classic for a reason and has stood the test of time despite plenty of competition.

BEST SHAVING GEL

Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel

We love a boutique, niche brand as much as the next guy. But Aveeno deserves its moment in the sun. They deliver not only on price and availability, but positive results. Their Therapeutic Shave Gel is a medicine cabinet must-have with an oatmeal and vitamin E-based gel that prevents razor burns, nicks, bumps, and cuts. It’s also just as effective on legs, arms, or any other part of your body that requires a little extra hair maintenance, so don’t be surprised when your significant other gets in on the tube, as well. 

BEST BEARD CONDITIONER

Viking Revolution Beard Conditioner

Argan and jojoba oils tame and soften the beast with Viking Revolution’s beloved beard conditioner. The shaving-time staple is a necessary last step to prevent dryness and irritation in the areas you didn’t attack with a razor blade, and this brand’s formula is one of the best ones you can get. It can also be applied whenever you want to add a little shine to facial hair throughout the day, so you don’t need to wait until an adequate beard length to break it out. Its alluring, masculine scent of sandalwood is worth the application alone. 

BEST CLEANSER

Cardon Purifying Clay Cleanser

Few products actually elicited a smile from our grooming editors during testing, but Cardon’s clay cleanser was one of them. Its texture is pillowy (almost marshmallow-like), and it lathers easily across the face. But it doesn’t just feel great — its formula is full of good-for-the-skin ingredients. It contains cactus extract and cica grass, both of which work to calm the skin and tame redness, as well as a trio of clays, which absorb excess oil without stripping the skin. Pro tip: Though this product is appropriate for all skin types, those with oiler complexions may want to leave it on for some 30 seconds, then wash it away for a deeper clean. If only all skincare products could be this rejuvenating.

BEST MOISTURIZER

PrettyBoy Revival Recovery Gel Cream Moisturizer

PrettyBoy is the new kid on the skincare block, and its hero product is making a huge first impression amongst grooming editors. This cooling gel moisturizer is formulated specifically for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin (and is even approved by the National Eczema Foundation), though it’s light enough for all skin types. Peep its ingredient roster to understand its excellence: 2% niacinamide, 2% squalane, 2% hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol, and more. That’s a heavy dose of smoothing, soothing, hydrating, firming, and fortifying nutrients.

BEST MOISTURIZER

Huron SPF30 Face Moisturizer

Of all the sunscreens in the world, Huron’s SPF-packed facial moisturizer is SPY favorite. It’s a time-saving one-two punch for the morning routine in that protects skin from sun damage and losing its liquid barrier. Our editors use it for days out and about and while working from home, since natural-light-filled home offices can also lead to UV damage. This one wears slightly heavier than a standard-fare moisturizer, but seeing as it cuts out that extra step from the regimen — the often-hefty sunscreen shield — it’s a far lighter alternative that won’t suffocate the pores. And as a bonus, it even attracts and traps moisture with the aid of hyaluronic acid.

BEST EYE CREAM

Brickell Restoring Eye Cream for Men

Once-humble Brickell is now one of the biggest players in skincare, and this powerful, natural eye cream remains one of its best products, and one of our favorites year after year. Think of this cream like a maxed-out moisturizer, with the density of a night cream that targets the most delicate and thin skin on one’s face. Its formula is designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness, featuring ingredients like peptides (to firm and plump), caffeine (to stimulate circulation), and hyaluronic acid (to hydrate). A single use can help rid eyes of that “always tired” look, and consistent daily and nightly use provides results much quicker than the competition.

BEST SERUM

Youth To The People Triple Peptide + Cactus Oasis Serum

This serum hits the sweet spot between effective performance and an accessible price point, considering a serum is one of the best places to invest in a skincare routine. Our editors love the cactus stem cells for skin resilience, the trio of peptides that keeps skin looking firm and supple, and the quartet of hyaluronic acid ingredients for hydration. Just a few drops are required on each application to see firmer and more radiant skin, so a little goes a long way.

BEST MASK

Geologie Micro Exfoliator and 3-Minute Clay Mask

Geologie’s excellent product combines two essential skincare functions — exfoliation and deep cleaning—but it also clears the complexion on deeper levels than other products of its kind. After our editors massaged in the volcanic sand and hydrated silica, they felt a gentle but clearing buffing taking place. After setting on the skin for three minutes, lactic acid and glycolic acid dissolve dead skin cells at the surface, and salicylic acid seeps into the pores to flush out excess gunk and trapped skin cells. A pair of clays provide a comforting base that also extracts oil from deep within the pores, and it doubles nicely as a hand and foot scrub too. Its inadvertent multipurpose formula and our editors’ smoother, clearer skin garnered made it a slam dunk for this award. 

BEST RETINOL

Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum

For anyone who doesn’t get their retinol from a dermatologist’s prescription, this impressively age-reversing over-the-counter option will get you the closest. Kiehl’s advertises it as a serum but the product wears more like a cream, so it goes on smoothly without feeling greasy. Our editors love to mix this in with a daytime hydrator before bed for a powerful pseudo-night cream with firming peptides and barrier-reinforcing ceramides. It takes a few months before the youthful results show themselves, but it’s worth the wait.

BEST EXFOLIANT

Talent Cell Renewal Exfoliator

The best physical scrubs artfully toe the line between too much grit and not enough power. Talent’s exfoliator has the exact right amount of buffing abilities (thanks to volcanic rock granules), and can be deployed every second or third day in order to maintain smoother, clearer skin. Even sensitive skin types can use this one without worry, proving just how well Talent balances effectiveness and mindfulness. Its benefits extend beyond the bathroom, too, as it’s also got the approval of the Environmental Working Group and PETA for minimizing its impact on nature.  

Malin + Goetz Shampoo

Malin + Goetz’s peppermint shampoo is the perfect antidote to the summer heat. It’s light enough to keep your hair feeling bouncy and clean, but without any heaviness that’ll keep you sweating after you step out of the shower. It’s a quick refresh that can last through the rest of the day.

R+Co Television Hair Perfect Conditioner

This conditioner specializes in keeping the body and volume high while leaving your hair with a medium shine that looks great all day. It also smells fantastic, so feel free to double up on a lather before standing too close to someone on the subway. 

Banana Boat Protections + Vitamins Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

You. Need. SUNSCREEN. It’s one of those things every old person always tells you and they’re right every time. These ones are small, so you can buy a bunch and put them in the places available for all the moments you forget to bring sunscreen: tote bags, glove compartments, your work bag. Sunscreen works for all occasions. 

Baxter of California Exfoliating Body Bar

Even if you’re a skincare minimalist, spend the money to improve your bar of soap. That supermarket Irish Spring one isn’t doing you any favors. This option from Baxter of California also exfoliates the skin and pores, rather than just glossing over the surface. It’s also much denser and will last longer than other bars at 7 ounces. 

Jack Black Lip Balm

For those addicted to lip balm, and you know who you are, this is a style upgrade for your…habit. If you’re going to be running around adding more goop to your lips, this one is at least smooth enough that it’s not going to be sticky to your significant other, while repairing any of the cracks and cuts you started down this journey on with anyway. 

Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick

Everybody chafes. It’s just a fact. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. Whether you’re training for that triathlon or just have thighs that rub a little too hard in the summer, Gold Bond’s defense stick is a quick remedy for that, and rubs on like deodorant. Especially when you’re breaking in a particularly scratchy pair of pants or a shirt sticking you in a weird spot, it’s a must. 

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Hydrating Face Wash Set

Maybe you already know about CeraVe face wash and use it all the time. That’s great. Maybe you don’t know what it is yet, and an online article about buying face wash you’ve never heard of isn’t going to convince you. Let me tell you this then, reader: One time, my sister was staying with me, and left a bottle of CeraVe in my bathroom. Now, any time (relax, it’s not that often) a woman has come by the apartment, they remark that I have this bottle of CeraVe face wash. I don’t know what significance this has with women, but it’s been favorable as of yet. 

Malin + Goetz Eau de Parfum

It’s nice to smell nice. It’s really just that simple. This scent from Malin + Goetz lasts a particularly long time, and is just the right balance of sweet notes and a muskier base. It’s priced at a sizable discount, so give it a shot.

BEST OVERALL

MANSCAPED® Crop Cleanser Groin Wash

SPY editors tested multiple grooming products from Manscaped in 2021 and 2022, and found the brand to be reliable, genital-safe, and pricey. Case in point? The Manscaped Cleanser Groin Wash is a SPY favorite and also the top-rated and top-reviewed men’s intimate wash on Amazon. It’s filled with gentle cleansers, hydrating vitamin E, and aloe vera, as well as cooling menthol and prebiotics that help the skin barrier regulate itself. They also help break down accumulated sweat, grime, and oil and refresh the penis and balls. This wash is also designed to foam minimally which decreases the chances of accidental contact with the tip of the penis and leaves junk with a masculine smell of light citrus, sambac jasmine, and vetiver. 

Manscaped’s intimate wash for men is the only one to check all the boxes — effective formula, great fragrance, and trendy design — which justifies it as our top pick.  

RUNNER-UP

HAPPY NUTS Body and Nut Wash for Men

Why It Stands Out: The Honda Accord of intimate washes for men, the Happy Nuts Body and Nut Wash isn’t flashy, but what it does, it does well. It’s reasonably priced, offering a great price per ounce, and delivers on its promises to safely cleanse and moisturize the penis and balls with a unique combination of soothing aloe, coconut oils and extracts and vitamin E for hydrating, as well as citric acid and tapioca starch for moisture control.

ROI: This wash offers the best price per ounce that SPY saw among dedicated groin washes. At just over $1 per ounce, this wash will likely continue to return on its investment for months.  

Hot Take: Amazon reviewers raved about this wash for two reasons: It delivers an awesome woodsy, sandalwood, “manly man” fragrance and it leaves penises feeling smooth. Beyond that, this intimate wash also features penis-safe ingredients to regulate and maintain sweat and groin health, like tapioca starch and vitamin E. Plus, the branding is funny and it’s hard to put an exact price on the value of a chuckle in the shower.

HONORABLE MENTION

Ballsy Ballwash Charcoal Body Wash for Men

Why It Stands Out: The Ballsy Ballwash relies on activated charcoal, which is excellent at washing away grime and smells. Plus, its larger bottle comes with a pump dispenser, a convenient feature that’s criminally underused by product designers in the grooming industry. 

ROI: This intimate wash offers the second-best price per ounce among dedicated groin washes. Though it costs a little more upfront than others, the bottle’s large 16-ounce size will last at least a few months, if not more, depending on usage.  

Hot Take: The primary ingredient in Ballsy’s intimate wash, activated charcoal, finely exfoliates the skin and protects it from buildup of sweat and grime. Aloe vera, vitamin E, and vegetable glycerin also work in tandem to moisturize the penis skin after the fact. The end result is a penis and balls that have an actually-clean feeling and aren’t dried out.

BEST WITH TEA TREE OIL

Skin Elements Intimate Wash for Men

Why It Stands Out: Tea tree is widely used in the cosmetics and grooming industry for its strong cleansing, anti-itch, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. The Skin Elements Intimate Wash for Men puts that power of those elements front and center in this intimate wash. 

ROI: At $3.70 per ounce, this stuff is expensive relative to the other washes on this list, thanks to its use of tea tree, which makes a return on investment a steeper ask. However, it’s the only intimate wash for men with tea tree as its central ingredient, and that means it offers unique properties and benefits that other washes can’t provide. 

Hot Take: With tea tree oil, witch hazel, and calendula and aloe vera extracts, this wash — through a convenient pump dispenser — produces a thick foam to easily clean the penis and balls and restore tired skin; that’s great for cleansing the whole area, but guys just need to be careful to avoid getting too much product near their urethra, which can cause irritation. An added bonus is that tea tree oil can also help with groin itching when used consistently over time.

PH-BALANCING INTIMATE WASH

zerotaboos Intimate Foam Wash with Prebiotics

Why It Stands Out: The Zerotaboos WASH uses prebiotics to minimize bad bacteria and maintain the groin’s pH while gently cleansing the area. Rather than introduce new environmental factors that can mess with the groin’s natural levels, this wash helps keep them consistent. 

ROI: Despite its premium-looking branding, this product lands right in the middle value-wise, costing a bit more than $2.00 per ounce, perfect for guys who don’t want to spend the most but who are fine to spend a little more. 

Hot Take: Most guys want a non-itchy clean and don’t care how they get it. This wash is for guys seeking a natural junk-cleaning and maintenance process, which is exactly what prebiotics do. Instead of blanket cleansing the entire area, and potentially stripping it of helpful bacteria, this wash uses probiotics to maintain and stabilize ideal pH conditions over time. It’s both proactive and preventative which makes it a great value.

NATURAL PENIS SOAP

HAPPY NUTS Man Slab Natural Soap for Men

Why It Stands Out: Dedicated penis soaps are actually pretty uncommon, so the fact the Happy Nuts Man Slab Natural Soap exists at all is notable. More specifically, this penis soap loads up on skin-protecting ingredients, like coconut oil and antioxidant-rich olive oil, to mitigate the strong cleaning power of the soap and activated charcoal. 

ROI: This is a premium penis soap and its $9.00-per-bar price point reflects that. However, even pricey soaps tend to last at least a few weeks to a few months depending on usage, so this ROI is likely to be high for most users. 

Hot Take: Nothing will clean a penis and balls better than penis soap, but a natural penis soap is even better because it includes important moisturizers, including hydrating fruit, plant oils, and shea butter that restores dry, cracked skin. Soap bricks are also perfect for the traveling man, thanks to their security-friendly formulas.

THE NUCLEAR PENIS SOAP

Dial Antibacterial Bar Soap, Gold, 4 Ounce – 8 Bars

Why It Stands Out: Dial Gold Antibacterial Deodorant Soap is cheap, effective, and sold by nearly every major pharmacy, drugstore, and retailer in the U.S.  

ROI: As one of Dial’s core products, this soap is consistently cheap and gets a lot cheaper per bar when purchased in bulk. A single bar also literally lasts months without breaking a sweat. 

Hot Take: This penis soap is NOT meant for everyone’s penis, especially men with sensitive skin. But for guys dealing with oil and grime day in, day out, something stronger may be called for, and that’s Dial Gold Soap.

BEST GENTLE BODY WASH

Vanicream Gentle Body Wash

Why It Stands Out: Vanicream is one of the brands dermatologists tell SPY about the most because its products are laser-focused on sensitive skin and helping users avoid irritation. The Vanicream Gentle Body Wash has over a dozen ingredients, but they’re mostly mild and inactive, making it a perfect intimate wash for men. 

ROI: Compared to all body washes, this stuff is a little more expensive than average, but compared to most intimate washes for men, it’s mighty cheap, coming in at well under $1.00 per ounce.

Hot Take: Men cleaned their groins before specialty products and many do so without them. For guys looking for a gentle, all-around body clean, penis and balls included, this body wash skips anything that might irritate skin and has the backing of the National Eczema Association. If it’s good enough for eczema sufferers, it’s good enough to clean the groin. 

BEST OVERALL

AlphaMale Penile Health Cream

Don’t let the over-the-top branding fool you: the AlphaMale Penile Health Cream takes an all-hands-on-deck approach to effectively moisturize dry penis skin. It’s made with a laundry list of natural ingredients, including key skin-nourishing vitamins and a bevy of plant-derived extracts, oils and butters. This nearly guarantees something will work to repair skin without irritating the penis. This cream goes on smoothly, doesn’t leave a sticky residue and is on the lower end price-wise. 

RUNNER UP

Man 1 Man Oil Penile Cream

Why It Stands Out: The Man1 Man Oil penile cream is one of the most reviewed products in this category on Amazon, meaning it actually has hundreds of comments validating its effectiveness.  

ROI: This is among the priciest penile creams per ounce, but it has restored cracked penis skin for hundreds of guys going back years and isn’t made with any dubious ingredients. 

Hot Take: This penile cream reportedly smells awful, but for every reviewer who couldn’t handle it, there are two reviewers saying the cream and its stank are totally worth it. Sure, the product looks a little ugly and costs too much, frankly, but it’s hard to harp on those qualities when the Man Oil succeeds at safely moisturizing penis skin.

GREATEST VALUE

Imagine Dermatology Relief Cream

Why It Stands Out: The Imagine Dermatology Relief Cream offers the best price per ounce of any product on this list. It also puts oats at the center of its formula, a trustworthy natural ingredient known to soothe irritated skin. (Remember oatmeal baths and chickenpox?)

ROI: With an average price and above average 5 ounces of product, this penile cream offers the best return on investment on this list. 

Hot Take: This cream boasts an impressive list of hydrating, emollient ingredients, a pump dispenser that should be industry-standard and unbeatable value. The only reason other products ranked higher is because they have more testimony to their efficacy. 

BEST GENERAL OPTION

Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream

Why It Stands Out: Dermatologists often recommend Vanicream products because their formulas are stripped down to minimize any chance of irritation. The Vanicream Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive Skin isn’t made for penises specifically, but if any general lotion will gently and safely moisturize a penis, it’s this one. 

ROI: Formula aside, because this product is so mainstream, it’s much cheaper and delivers a much better value than all the other penis-specific creams.  

Hot Take: Grooming and skin care has become so specialized by body part, but there often isn’t a clear reason why. At the end of the day, most skin care products rely on the same dozen or so hydrating ingredients for face, hands and bodies, so there’s every reason to believe Vanicream will be a safe and effective buy.

BEST FOR FUNGAL CONDITION

Lotrimin Ultra Antifungal Jock Cream

Why It Stands Out: The Lotrimin Ultra Antifungal Jock Itch Cream is SPY’s top cream for tackling jock itch. While it’s not specifically designed for the penis, none of its ingredients are harmful or irritating to penis skin as long as they don’t enter the urethra. 

ROI: This stuff is cheap as hell given the dire problem it solves for men. 

Hot Take: Any man who suspects he has a fungal infection should promptly see a doctor. But if that’s not possible, the Lotrimin Ultra cream features the key antifungal ingredient, butenafine hydrochloride, known for stopping burning, cracking or other symptoms of discomfort.

BEST FOR MASTURBATION

Cake Hello So-Low Lotion

Why It Stands Out: The Cake Hello So-Low Lotion (see what they did there?) lives somewhere between a moisturizing lotion and personal sexual lubricant. What better way to kill two birds with one stone than to play around with a lube that leaves a penis feeling soft? 

ROI: The dual-action formula raises the price on this product a but, but it’s still a decent value. It’s a unique product and worth it for guys who enjoy a lot of one-on-one time with their penises. 

Hot Take: The drier, tougher skin men seek out penile cream for in the first place can come from age-related wear and tear, but frequent sexual intercourse and masturbation can also contribute through constant tugging and a lack of lubricant. This penile cream allows for smoother masturbation that’s less aggressive on skin and its ingredients make skin softer. Note: this cream is best for solo play and shouldn’t be used with a partner. 

BEST OVERALL PRODUCT FOR BEARD DANDRUFF

Nizoral AD Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with Ketoconazole 1%

The single best treatment for active beard dandruff is going to be the same shampoos that treat scalp dandruff. That said, there’s no single universal solution for every case of beard dandruff, so it’s important to understand the root cause of one’s own flaking. When SPY asked him to pick the single best product for treating a large portion of cases (for scalp, and thus for the beard too), Williams picked Nizoral’s shampoo, which contains the active ingredient ketoconazole. 

“Ketoconazole is proven to be very effective against the fungi that are involved in dandruff, and this 1% formulation is readily available over the counter,” he said. Most people should be able to tolerate it,, but be sure to keep skin moisturized after the fact with a facial cream or beard oil. We also recommend anyone discontinue use after the dandruff is gone and switch to a preventative strategy because of the intensity of the active ingredients.

BEST BEARD OIL

King C. Gillette Beard Oil

Key Ingredients: Argan oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil, macadamia seed oil

How It Works: These ultra-nourishing ingredients can seep past the beard hairs, unlike many lotions and balms, in order to moisturize and fortify the skin. 

There’s More: The oil can also soften and condition beard hairs, reducing things like split ends and beard itch. The longer the beard, the more drops you’ll use per application. Use a beard comb to distribute in fuller beards.

BEST BEARD BRUSH

Smooth Viking Boar Bristle Beard Brush & Comb Set

Materials: 100% natural boar bristles, pearwood

How It Works: These durable, sturdy brushes can reach skin through even the fullest of beards to exfoliate skin and detangle neck nests.

There’s More: While boar-bristle brushes certainly aren’t vegan, almost all are cruelty-free in that the boars have their hairs trimmed, not unlike sheep being shorn.

BEST CLEANSER

Neutrogena Oil-Free Face Wash with Salicylic Acid

Key Ingredient: Salicylic acid

How It Works: Salicylic acid can seep into the pores to clear out excess oil and trapped skin cells, and to mitigate both oil and dry skin at the surface of the skin, too.

There’s More: This is one of the hero ingredients in scalp dandruff remedies, too.

BEST MOISTURIZER

Derma-E Tea Tree and Vitamin E Relief Cream

Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil, vitamin E, aloe vera

How It Works: The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic powers of the key ingredients in this cream act quickly on contact to reduce dandruff caused by excessive dryness or irritation (and to calm skin simultaneously).

There’s More: This one is both a face and body moisturizer, so use it on dry or inflamed skin anywhere.

BEST SERUM

Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid 

How It Works: Draws moisture into the skin and holds up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, keeping skin hydrated and firm.

There’s More: This will work wonders for the entire face, not just the skin under the beard.