Category: Health & Fitness

This article was published in partnership with Blu Atlas.

A healthy head of hair is key to both looking and feeling your best. Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp, so it’s important to nourish your crown with quality active ingredients. To maximize hair thickness, volume and shine, it is not only necessary to wash regularly, but also to condition. Shampoos can strip the hair and scalp of vital moisture and nutrients, leading to hair damage or thinning. Following your wash with the right conditioner is an important step toward keeping your mane in top form.

With so many conditioners on the market, it may be challenging to find the right one for you. This choice will depend on your hair type and treatment concerns, as well as your taste in ingredients and fragrance. To smooth your selection process, we have surveyed the top products available and compiled this list of the 20 best hair conditioners for men in 2022. Get ready to reveal your best hair yet!

1. Blu Atlas Conditioner

This all-natural conditioner from the outstanding men’s grooming line Blu Atlas is a clear winner. The lightweight formula will address all your hair concerns with potent botanicals that soothe and hydrate the scalp and fortify the strands. Say goodbye to weak tresses, breakage, frizz and dullness, and restore your hair to full volume and shine with this premium product.

The fresh-scented blend includes natural humectants to lock in moisture and barley protein to strengthen your strands. Lather up with this effective conditioner daily for best results. This product is free of harmful parabens, phthalates and sulfates, and is ideal for regular use. Pair this conditioner with the brand’s shampoo for even more dramatic benefits.

[$22; bluatlas.com]

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2. VERB | Hydrating Conditioner

Verb is another body-care brand that is committed to clean ingredients. Their Hydrating Conditioner is a great moisture-boosting choice for all hair types, featuring a gentle, all-natural blend of hair-loving botanicals. Argan and meadowfoam seed oils restore and strengthen the hair from the follicle to the tip with antioxidants. Pro-vitamin B5 and sunflower extract hydrate and nourish the scalp and hair while providing natural UV protection.

Boost hair body, moisture and shine with this color-safe formula. It is gluten-free and does not contain harmful chemical additives, making it a great option for sensitive skin. This sustainably sourced conditioner has a light citrus fragrance to refresh your senses as you care for your mane.

[$40; amazon.com]

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3. HORACE | Nourishing Conditioner

This nutritious conditioner from clean men’s grooming line Horace contains an impressive 96.9% all-natural ingredients. The gentle formula hydrates and strengthens your hair with a blend of plant-derived moisturizers, including shea butter, Abyssian oil and mango butter. These high-powered ingredients also protect the scalp and hair with numerous antioxidants for dramatic results.

Featuring a deliciously fresh green fragrance, this product is free of silicone, mineral oil, PEG and parabens. Safely treat and nourish your hair with this clean conditioner, which pairs well with the brand’s hydrating shampoo.

[$20; horace.co]

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4. HANZ DE FUKO | Natural Conditioner

Soothe your scalp and boost hair volume with this conditioner from men’s grooming brand Hanz de Fuko, featuring 100% certified organic ingredients. This botanically boosted formula includes an impressive blend of protective and hydrating plant extracts, including antioxidant-rich white tea, nourishing shea butter and reparative aloe vera. A medley of amino acids will fortify your strands to prevent frizz and breakage, while burdock root and horsetail fern heal the scalp and stimulate hair growth.

This lightly scented formula is sustainably sourced and free of sulfates and parabens. Use it daily after shampooing to restore hair and scalp health.

[$23; hanzdefuko.com]

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5. Oribe | Priming Lotion Leave-In Conditioning Detangler

If your hair is prone to tangles and breakage, try this leave-in conditioner from luxury haircare brand Oribe. Simply apply this convenient product to clean hair after showering, and let it air dry for silky and tangle-free hair. The luxurious formula includes the brand’s signature complex of plant-based antioxidants to protect and fortify the hair and scalp. A luxurious blend of botanical oils strengthens, nourishes and softens the hair, smoothing the hair cuticles and sealing in moisture.

Use this rich and creamy product for tangle-free hair that is easier to style. This is a great option for curly hair, as it provides moisture without weighing down your ringlets. Achieve bounce, body and shine with this premium option.

[$38; oribe.com]

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6. Patricks | CD1 Stimulating & Thickening Conditioner

For targeted treatment of thinning hair, try this high-performance conditioner from the acclaimed men’s grooming brand Patricks. The multi-active formula thickens your hair shafts with plant proteins for an instant volumizing effect. It also features a synergistic blend of plant-derived antioxidants that stimulate scalp circulation and promote new hair growth. Plus, it is made with androgen-blocking technology to specifically target male pattern baldness.

Rounding off this top-rated product is a luxurious masculine fragrance of vetiver and white mint. Whether you have advanced hair loss or are just starting to see the signs of thinning, this paraben and phthalate-free conditioner is an excellent choice. Pair it with the brand’s targeted thickening shampoo for maximum effect.

[$46; patricks.co]

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7. Doers of London Conditioner

Nourish your hair and scalp with this dermatologist-recommended conditioner from the all-natural grooming brand Doers of London. The gentle, pH-balanced formula contains an array of deeply hydrating and restorative botanical ingredients, such as softening argan oil and calming copaiba extract, making it one of the best hair conditioners on the market. Organic aloe vera and oat bran extract balance sebum levels and protect your hair and scalp from oxidative stress.

Use this conditioner daily to calm scalp irritation and boost your hair shine and control. This ultra-clean product is certified vegan and cruelty-free, formulated without synthetic colors, fragrance, parabens or sulfates.

[$24; doersoflondon.com]

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8. Olivina Men | Conditioning Cream (Bourbon Cedar)

This dual-purpose cream comes from the organic grooming brand Olivina Men. Their versatile formula can be used as a rinse-out product for daily care or a leave-in conditioner to add shine and control. It features the brand’s popular signature fragrance Bourbon Cedar, made of pure essential oils. The olive-oil-based cream hydrates and fortifies strands with barley protein, while elderberry extract stimulates hair growth.

Repair damaged hair and restore natural shine with this fragrant, eco-friendly product for men. The affordable conditioner is packaged in 100% recyclable materials and is free of harmful artificial chemicals, making it a great choice for everyday use.

[$7.83; amazon.com]

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9. Sachajuan | Scalp Conditioner

Target dandruff and scalp irritation with this award-winning conditioner from stylish salon favorite Sachajuan. The high-powered blend includes natural antimicrobial compounds to gently combat the fungus that causes dandruff. An anti-inflammatory infusion of ginger, rosemary, menthol and salicylic acid soothes and balances the scalp.

This effective product is best paired with the brand’s targeted anti-dandruff shampoo. Vegan, clean and sustainably sourced, it is safe for daily use.

[$105; sachajuan.com]

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10. Bevel | Sulfate-Free Conditioner

Hydrate and detangle your hair with this deep conditioning option from dermatologist-approved grooming brand Bevel. Suitable for daily use as a rinse-out treatment, or as a leave-in hair mask, this clean formula nourishes and fortifies your mane with coconut oil and shea butter.

Seal in moisture and volume while boosting shine with this versatile hair treatment, which is superb for coarse or curly hair textures. The rich, lathering formula is free of harmful ingredients, and the light fragrance is a customer favorite.

[$17.96; getbevel.com]

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11. Act+Acre | Cold Processed Hair Conditioner

What makes this one of the best hair conditioners for men? Well, the natural hair-care brand Act+Acre is known for its proprietary cold-pressed technology, which preserves the potency of botanical ingredients for optimal benefit. Nourish and repair dry, damaged hair with their lightweight conditioner that delivers deep, continual hydration. This silicone-free formula is a great choice for all hair types. It includes fortifying quinoa protein, hydrating Abyssian oil and restorative vitamin B5 for dramatic results.

See why this one is an insider favorite for affordable, clean and high-powered hair care with proven results. It is safe for chemically treated and dyed hair, and sustainably sourced.

[$28; actandacre.com]

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12. Dr. Squatch | Men’s Natural Conditioner (Cool Citrus)

This refreshing conditioner from the organic men’s grooming brand Dr. Squatch is an excellent choice for daily use. It features cooling peppermint oil, which calms the scalp and stimulates hair growth. Calendula and clary sage hydrate and balance to restore a smooth, healthy shine. Plus, avocado oil delivers a potent dose of vitamin E to lock in moisture. The invigorating citrus fragrance is another favorite among buyers.

Massage this luxurious, fragrant cream into your scalp and hair daily for maximum effect.

[$16; drsquatch.com]

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13. EVO | Normal Persons Daily Conditioner

This lightweight daily conditioner is ideal for oily hair types, working to reduce sebum production and stimulate the scalp. The clean formula boosts hair smoothness, shine and control with a blend of moisturizers, fortifying proteins and oil-controlling agents.

Massage this lightly scented, nourishing conditioner into your wet hair and scalp, and rinse to reveal softness and shine. This product is free of parabens, sulfates and gluten, and is safe for regular use. Pair this certified vegan and cruelty-free option with the brand’s corresponding shampoo for maximum results.

[$30; amazon.com]

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14. GAGE FOR MEN | Tea Tree Conditioner

Energize and balance your scalp with this refreshing conditioner from the high-performance grooming brand Gage for Men. The light formula hydrates with coconut extract and neem seed oil, while essential oils of tea tree and peppermint stimulate scalp circulation for balanced moisture. The antioxidant-packed botanical ingredients also protect your scalp and hair from damaging free radicals and UVA/UVB rays.

Massage this comforting cream into the hair and scalp daily for revitalizing hydration. It can be paired with the brand’s corresponding shampoo for a double dose of minty freshness.

[$18; gageformen.com]

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15. AMERICAN CREW | Daily Conditioner

This multi-action conditioner comes from veteran men’s grooming brand American Crew. The vegan formula revitalizes, fortifies and protects your hair and scalp with lightweight and lasting hydration. Boost hair softness, control and shine with this blend of 91% natural ingredients, such as ultra-moisturizing vitamin B5 and fragrant extracts of peppermint, rosemary and thyme.

This energizing and strengthening conditioner from a trusted leading brand is an excellent daily option for men with normal to dry hair.

[$8.76; amazon.com]

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16. TRIUMPH & DISASTER | Conditioner

This impressive, high-powered conditioner is 100% natural and top-rated, with proven results. Ultra-clean, and backed by rigorous research, this lightweight detangling formula features an enticing fragrance of mint and cucumber. It is rich in hair-fortifying keratin, nourishing argan oil and an all-natural silicone substitute to detangle even the most difficult knots.

Treat your hair and scalp with this potent offering from a leader in artisanal plant-powered personal care.

[$33; triumphanddisaster.com]

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17. Jack Black | Nourishing Hair & Scalp Conditioner

This rich conditioner is another great choice, courtesy of popular grooming brand Jack Black, a reliable source for luxury-grade products at reasonable prices. This botanically boosted and sulfate-free formula provides deep hydration that tackles frizz without weighing the hair down. It features biotin and silk protein to fortify your hair shafts, and a nourishing antioxidant blend of green tea, tea tree oil and basil.

This fragrance-free product delivers lasting hydration without greasy residue. It is suitable for all hair types and is created from clean ingredients, making it safe for daily use.

[$27.83; walmart.com]

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18. LAB SERIES | Age Rescue Densifying Conditioner

This powerful conditioner from premium men’s skincare line Lab Series harnesses the power of the brand’s anti-aging technology to combat visible signs of aging in the hair. The proprietary 3D Renoplex composite turns back the clock to reveal youthful, healthy locks. Ginseng combats hair loss, while glycerin and wheat protein nourish and strengthen your scalp and strands.

Try this advanced option for thicker, shinier and healthier hair that defies the passage of time. Pair it with the brand’s corresponding shampoo for double the anti-aging benefits.

[$27.45; walmart.com]

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19. GROWN ALCHEMIST | Conditioner

Enhance your hair’s shine, strength and body with this blend of powerful bioactive ingredients from the natural skincare innovators at Grown Alchemist. The lightweight formula is intended for daily use. It includes potent antioxidants derived from tomato, black pepper and green tea, which work to soften and smooth the hair shafts while nourishing and soothing the scalp. A calming floral blend of chamomile, lavender and myrtle adds protective moisture that lasts.

This 100% natural, vegan and cruelty-free option pairs well with the brand’s other products, including a corresponding shampoo to round out your daily hair-care ritual.

[$49; grownalchemist.com]

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20. RADIA | Purifying Conditioner

Rounding out our list is this gentle lab-tested conditioner that detoxifies and clarifies damaged hair to reveal healthy volume and shine. The deep hydrating treatment is intended for daily use and guaranteed to moisturize, detangle and fortify your locks with a lightweight, dermatologist-tested formula. It includes the brand’s proprietary Nanosome Technology, which enables the continuous release of active ingredients for optimal results. Aloe, acai berry and keratin are delivered with maximum efficiency to rejuvenate, hydrate, fortify and purify even the most damaged hair.

This high-performance option is safe for color-treated hair while being free of gluten, silicones, parabens and sulfates. Reverse damage and protect your tresses with this targeted conditioner.

[$32; dslaboratories.com]

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a conditioner, and why do I need one?

A conditioner is a moisturizing agent that is applied to the hair and scalp after shampooing to add hydration and protection. Shampoos can strip your hair of vital moisture, weakening or damaging the strands. Regular use of a nourishing, moisturizing and protective conditioner is necessary to counteract these effects and keep your hair healthy, hydrated and strong. It is an important step for optimal scalp, follicle and hair shaft health, especially if you have dry skin or strands.

A great conditioner will smooth and strengthen your hair cuticles, regulate scalp hydration, and provide antioxidant protection from environmental stressors. Plus, the right conditioner will detangle your hair and boost control for easy styling.

How do I choose the right conditioner

There are different types of conditioners tailored to distinct hair types and concerns. Let’s explore some of the most common hair types and conditioners.

If you have fine hair, choose a volumizing conditioner, which will bulk up your hair strands with fortifying compounds to provide an appearance of thicker hair.

If you have dry hair, choose a moisturizing conditioner that will nourish and hydrate your hair and scalp while locking in moisture.

If you have oily hair, choose an oil control conditioner that will regulate sebum production on your scalp without irritation.

If you have hair loss, choose a conditioner for thinning hair that will target the different causes of hair loss, including hormonal imbalance, scalp irritation and environmental damage.

Lastly, if you have normal hair, choose a lightweight conditioner that will nourish and hydrate without weighing down your locks with greasy residue.

How do I use a conditioner?

1. Thoroughly cleanse your hair with your chosen shampoo. Remove any excess water from your hair.

2. Deposit a small amount of conditioner onto your hand. Read the product instructions for exact amount recommendations.

3. Dispense the product thoroughly and evenly across your scalp and throughout your hair. Pay special attention to your scalp, gently massaging the conditioner onto the skin for optimal absorption.

4. Let the conditioner sit in your hair and scalp for several minutes. Product instructions will tell you how long you should wait. Some are intended for one or two minutes, while leave-in hair treatments may be left in for up to 30 minutes or all day.

5. Thoroughly rinse the conditioner from your hair and scalp, avoiding the eyes.

6. Experts recommend that you limit the use of damaging hairdryers and instead gently towel or air dry your clean, nourished mane.

How often should I use a conditioner?

The frequency with which you condition will depend on your hair type, hair length and chosen product. Men’s hair experts generally agree with the following common guidelines.

If you have short hair, you only need to condition it one or two times a week, as shorter strands are more fully nourished from the scalp.

If you have long hair, you should condition it two to three times a week, as long strands tend to retain fewer nutrients from the scalp.

If you have greasy or oily hair, condition one to two times a week, focusing on the ends of your hair rather than the scalp to prevent oily buildup.

If you have normal hair, you should condition one or two times a week.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and different products may have different indications. Take the time to figure out which routine helps your hair look and feel the best.

What ingredients should I look for in a conditioner?

It is important to choose high-quality natural ingredients with proven hair-care benefits. Let’s explore some of the best ingredients found in popular conditioners.

Essential oils

Essential oils have many important benefits for scalp and hair health. Most have antifungal compounds to combat dandruff, as well as hydrating, restorative and anti-inflammatory effects. Tea tree oil is a powerful calmative ingredient that also deep cleans and purifies the scalp. Peppermint oil stimulates scalp circulation to help keep the follicles nourished while encouraging new hair growth. These therapeutic oils also typically emit pleasant aromas for a luxurious hair-washing experience.

Carrier oils 

Less concentrated than essential oils, carrier oils are typically plant-derived, and are used to hydrate, soften and protect the skin while helping it to absorb more potent ingredients without irritation. Carrier oils are classed as emollients, humectants or occlusives according to their skincare benefits. Emollients such as coconut oil smooth, soften and nourish the skin’s surface. Humectants such as glycerin and jojoba oil boost the skin’s moisture-absorbing ability for deep hydration. Finally, occlusives form a protective barrier on the skin to lock in moisture. This category includes argan oil and shea butter.

Aloe vera leaf juice

This miracle-working plant nourishes the scalp and provides soothing hydration. It is deeply restorative for the hair and follicles, delivering numerous essential vitamins for optimal body and shine.

Antioxidants (vitamin B5, C and E, and green tea)

Antioxidants are molecules that combat free-radical damage from environmental aggressors. Free radicals cause oxidative stress, which can damage the hair, follicles and scalp, and lead to loss of shine, volume and thickness. Antioxidants can reverse this process, regenerating and protecting both the hair and scalp from future damage.

Amino acids

As the building blocks of proteins, amino acids are essential to the formation and maintenance of strong tissue in our bodies. Topical application of amino acids in targeted hair-care products can both strengthen the hair and repair damage, as these compounds bind to the shafts and lock in moisture. The most effective amino acids found in common hair-care products include silk and wheat amino acids, oat and soy protein derivatives, and keratin.

What ingredients should I avoid in a conditioner?

Unfortunately, many widely available personal care products are made with harmful ingredients that have been linked not only to mild irritation but to grave health problems. Let’s look at some of the most toxic ingredients to avoid.

Sulfates

Sulfates are chemical detergents that are commonly added to personal care products as foaming agents to create a rich lather. Not only are sulfates damaging to the hair and scalp, stripping them of moisture and nutrients, but they are also known carcinogens and endocrine disruptors.

Parabens

These chemical preservatives can cause skin irritation, various forms of cancer, neural damage and hormonal imbalance.

Phthalates

Phthalates are another common additive in grooming products and are linked to damage of the lungs, liver, kidneys and reproductive system, in addition to disruption of the endocrine system.

Synthetic dyes and fragrances

Many synthetic fragrances are made with toxic chemicals that are linked to endocrine disruption, hair loss and cardiopulmonary disease. Synthetic dyes are typically made of highly toxic petroleum derivatives, which are also linked to various cancers.

Silicone

Though it isn’t toxic, silicone deserves a mention because it is so common in hair-care products despite its deleterious effects on hair health. These synthetic polymers, often listed as dimethicone, coat the hair shafts to make them appear healthier momentarily. However, in the long run, they strip hair of vital nutrients and moisture and irritate the scalp with oily buildup.

Your hair and scalp deserve the best care, so keep an eye out for these harmful ingredients, and opt for clean, high-performance natural products with trusted results.

As this comprehensive survey has shown, a good conditioner is the crowning element of a solid hair-care routine. Take the time to discover the perfect conditioner for your hair type, taste and budget. With this all-star lineup of the 20 best hair conditioners for men in 2022, you are sure to find just the one to keep you looking and feeling amazing from head to toe.

The perfect heli-ski experience does exist, and it’s in Alaska.

When you’re heli-skiing in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains, “landing” is a relative concept. On our first run of a weeklong trip with Valdez Heli-Ski Guides, our pilot, an unflappable Frenchman named Jean Louis, dangles the front of the helicopter’s cockpit over a 2,000-foot cliff while perching the machine’s tail on a precarious cornice. Before I have a chance to ask “Are you serious?” the veteran pilot casually motions to the great white outside. Alright then. I unbuckle my harness, drop a boot onto one of the skids, duck my head and leap into one of the greatest experiences of my life.

Heli-skiing is addictive. Acres and acres of untracked, knee-deep powder provide a chance to star in your own TGR video. In Alaska, all the emotions—conquest, grandeur, solitude—are multiplied. You scout lines and draw lungfuls of frigid air while taking in the horizon. No people, trees, animals, signs of humanity. Just primal peaks towering over an otherworldly stadium of snow. Then the complete freedom that comes with carving long, swooping lines in hero snow, leaving plumes of snow smoke in your wake. Starting anywhere from 6,000 to 8,000 feet elevation, each run to the valley floor can take 10 to 20 minutes and cover 3,000 to 6,000 feet of vertical drop.

Back in the bird, Jean Louis and our guide, Matt Bohne, scan ridges for safe landing spots and lines to devastate. Wind buff and sun exposure can scuttle good snow, and the difference between fresh pow and variable crunch is the difference between a high five and a trip-ending wipeout. At these northern latitudes the tree line is just a few thousand feet above sea level. Absent growth, big gusts can alter snow surfaces in the time it takes to scarf a roast beef sandwich between runs.

Valdez Heli-Ski Guides sits in the heart of the Chugach Mountains. Tsaina Lodge, the operation’s headquarters, was founded more than 30 years ago by iconic free-skier Doug Coombs, who twice won the World Extreme Skiing Championship. It’s become the premier heli-ski operation in Alaska.

It’s tempting to describe the staff ’s demeanor as nonchalant. But that laid-back attitude is just a mask for the controlled precision of consummate pros. On our last day Matt directs the heli into a new valley with steeper lines than we’d seen all week. At first I didn’t think these were possible to access—a large cornice protects their entrance.

Outside Matt gives us instructions I was expecting but also sort of fearing. We’ll drop over a steep ledge, traverse hard right to avoid a terrifying cliff band, then ski a steep chute to the valley floor, avoiding hard-pack debris from recent slides in the apron.

Matt goes first, calmly makes the wicked traverse and disappears from sight. My nerves return. Knees start vibrating. Caution takes precedence over grace. I execute an awkward butt-scoot to the edge and clumsily lower myself off the eight-foot drop. I make quick work of the traverse, and gain confidence as the hard-pack turns to soft, stable powder. Now back to a world I know well—left, right, left, right.

In good snow, skiing is the same as flying, a place between stability and free fall. I find a rhythm, lean back and let my skis do the rest.

How to Pull Off the Perfect Alaska Heli-Ski Trip

When: Valdez Heli-Ski Guides (and other Chugach Mountains outfits) operate February to May. Early season often has more deep powder, but fickle weather. Late season has longer days and more predictable conditions.

Amenities: Use of airbag pack, beacon, shovel and probe, option for rental skis or snowboard, round-trip charter from Anchorage and the best guides in the world.

Cost: Valdez Heli-Ski Guides packages run $6,500 to $25,000 per person for a week of heli-skiing. Price differences depend on lodging and number of groups you share a helicopter with.

To say tequila has been gaining popularity over the last few years is a gross understatement. It’s been barreling along like a freight train. If you don’t consider yourself an aficionado, you may not know there are a few expressions: blanco, reposado, and añejo tequila. Banco is unaged and bottled after distilling, while reposado is aged from two months to a year in oak barrels. These are the most accessible (and typically more affordable) than añejo, especially for mixing up cocktails. But that’s not to say all añejos have to break the bank.

But those who like to savor their liquor, á la whiskey or bourbon, will love sipping añejo tequila. This variety is left in oak barrels for at least a year. The aging process can take place in virgin barrels or those that previously stored other spirits like bourbon, whiskey, or even red wine. It gives the tequila a darker amber hue and imparts more flavors and complexity while mellowing out the liquor. Here’s the best añejo tequila to try now.

Best Añejo Tequila to Sip in 2022

1. Tepozán Añejo

Tepozán tequila has been sustainably made from the same recipe in Jalisco, Mexico, for the last quarter of a century. It’s just three natural ingredients: blue agave, spring water, and yeast. The añejo is aged 14 months in Kentucky white oak bourbon barrels before bottling. Tasting notes include hints of butterscotch, hot peppers, and smoked wood.

[$65; tequilatepozan.com]

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This article was published in partnership with Blu Atlas.

Recent years have seen a boom in grooming products designed specifically for men. In fact, male skincare has been revolutionized with scents, designs and ingredients chosen with the modern man in mind.

If you’re a man looking to upgrade your skincare ritual, there is no better place to start than at its most essential step: your daily body wash!

As it’s the first product we reach for during an early morning shower, an afternoon rinse or an evening bath, a good body wash is more important than many of us realize. Body wash clears the skin, wards off bacteria and eliminates unpleasant odors. Its refreshing scent lasts for hours, allowing you to go about your day with confidence.

To help you start every day right with a body wash that leaves you not only clean and energized, but also fresh-smelling, we’ve created this list of the best-smelling body washes for men. Keep reading to find the one that suits your taste as well as your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still unsure about the perfect body wash for you? Check out our frequently asked questions for useful tips on choosing the best skincare products and ingredients.

Body wash, shower gel, plain old soap? What is the difference, and which should you choose?

Whether you choose an exfoliating body wash or opt for the simplest bar of soap, it is important to make the choice that is right for your skin. Basic soap can be harsher on the skin than body gels and washes. It also lacks the added moisturizing ingredients that make up most body washes today. However, for those living in humid climates, or those with skin that tends to be oily, ordinary soap may provide a simpler way to wash. If you count yourself among this number, make sure you store the soap properly to avoid excess bacterial growth.

A body gel – not to be confused with a body wash – is a thinner, less viscous liquid that provides more lather than a soap but lacks the exfoliating properties of a typical body wash. If you are still undecided, you may consider investing in one of each.

Are there real benefits to an all-natural wash?

While chemical ingredients often create the rich lather we have come to expect from our body wash, their long-term use can prove detrimental to our skin health. This occurs when frequently used chemical additives, such as sodium lauryl, sulfates and parabens, start to strip away our skin’s natural oils. You may notice this is happening if your skin grows increasingly dry between washes. In this case, you may feel that you need to increase product use to regain your skin’s elasticity.

Going natural may decrease flakiness and prompt your skin to produce its own natural defenses against the elements. All-natural or organic ingredients will simply augment your skin’s existing powers of protection. After a lifetime of exposure to chemical additives, it may take some time to grow accustomed to the consistency of all-natural products, but the end result will certainly be worth it. And knowing that your products were sourced from the earth will offer you an added sense of comfort.

Which ingredients should you look for in a body wash?

The secret to the best ingredients to look for in a body wash is quite simply trial and error. Everyone has a unique skin type and individual preferences, so you won’t really know until you try. That being said, existing research in the field of dermatology can provide some useful hints. According to the experts, aloe leaf, tea tree oil and charcoal are best for cleansing distressed skin and targeting harmful bacteria. If it is moisture that your skin lacks, look for jojoba extract, shea butter or anything that contains coconut. When in doubt, keep in mind that it is not quantity that counts; the simpler the ingredients, the more likely you are to reap their natural benefits.

Which commonly used ingredients should you avoid?

In general, you should be wary of any chemical additives in your skincare products. However, there are a few that are known for being particularly toxic:

Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate are two common foaming agents that may irritate the skin and dehydrate the scalp. With long-term use, the absorption of these substances into the body may cause severe illnesses, such as cancers.

Triclosan appears in body wash products as an antifungal or antibacterial substance. Banned in Canada and Japan, it has been linked to skin and organ toxicity, allergies, immunotoxicity and other severe conditions.

Parabens like methylparaben, propylparaben, isoparaben and butylparaben are commonly used as preservatives in the skincare industry. They are easily absorbed by the body and have been proven to lead to a number of serious illnesses. Among these are psychological illness, infertility, spermatogenesis and various types of cancer.

Phthalates are commonly used in cosmetic products as fragrance enhancers. Studies have shown that phthalates have been linked with endocrine disruptions that result in even more serious side effects, such as pregnancy loss.

Should you trust three-in-one products?

Believe it or not, multi-use products have been around since the early eighties, when Pantene first introduced a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner. Consumers have been debating their value ever since. Some experts claim that a three-in-one product can’t effectively target each individual problem area. If you have dry skin, for instance, but tend to have more oily hair, then a three-in-one product probably won’t meet your needs. On the other hand, consumers report being satisfied with naturally sourced three-in-one products such as the aforementioned Jack Black three-in-one wash. High-quality ingredients have the potential to benefit multiple areas at once. And when time is short, a multi-use wash can shave precious minutes off your self-care routine. As with most self-care-related topics, the best way to find the answer is to try the products and see what works for you.

Is it safe to order skincare products online?

It is absolutely safe and highly efficient to order personal care products online. With the variety of merchants and the number of reviews available, the internet may help you make a more informed decision about the product you are looking for. Competition among brands leads to reduced prices for consumers, so you may even score a bargain.

However, when purchasing skincare products online, it is important to make sure that the merchant is legitimate. The best way to do this is to order directly from the manufacturer’s website or from well-known resellers such as Target or Walmart. Since third-party merchants have sometimes been reported for selling knockoff products, a fair amount of caution is always advisable. Also, make sure you are aware of the company’s return policy before making a hefty purchase. Some companies will allow you to try before you buy, while others adhere to a stricter set of guidelines.

Are there any other skincare products that are recommended for men?

Of course! It is a myth that the beauty industry exists only for female consumers. Because male skin is up to 20% thicker than female skin, experts recommend investing in a quality moisturizer for the face and body. Especially if you shave daily, replenishing the skin should be a necessary part of your daily self-care ritual.

A facial cleanser can be another useful addition to any man’s shower caddy. Though most men do not wear makeup, facial cleansers can still help prevent acne and other distressing skin conditions. In recent years, exfoliating face masks have become popular among both men and women alike.

It can be hard to live a high-profile, Hollywood life and abstain from alcohol. Harder still if your spouse has part ownership in a gin brand. But that’s exactly the position Blake Lively, superstar actress and wife of Ryan Reynolds, the face of Aviation Gin, is in. Although she likes the taste of alcohol, Lively’s sober. “I hate the effects of it, she says.” But sitting on the sidelines isn’t her thing. “I wanted something where I could still participate” with friends who were drinking. Rather than deal with mediocrity, Lively launched her own brand of mixers called Betty Buzz.

You’re probably particular about the spirits you use in cocktails, but how precious are you about the add-ins? It’s an afterthought for most, but mixers are incredibly important for cocktails—especially nonalcoholic ones, as it comprises a huge chunk of the flavor profile. Thing is, most mixers don’t measure up to a proper cocktail.

“To me, they didn’t taste great, but apparently they do once you mix them with alcohol,” Lively says. “It just didn’t make any sense…If this is most of the drink, then why doesn’t it taste spectacular?”

Made with real juice and natural sweeteners and flavors, the Betty Buzz lineup includes five variants: Sparkling Grapefruit, Sparkling Lemon Lime, Meyer Lemon Club Soda, Ginger Beer, and Tonic Water. The “real ingredients” plug isn’t just hype; there’s actually fruit sediment in the Sparkling Lemon Lime.

“I’m a millennial, we love that crap,” Lively jokes.

The mixers are simple by design; Lively intends for them to be used with a variety of add-ins, garnishes, and spirits, if that’s your thing.

“You really can’t go wrong,” she says. “It’s very rare—maybe once—that I’ve put something together and gone, ‘I don’t like the way that tastes.’ ” She even promotes a cocktail called Everything but the Kitchen Drink (see below) that layers multiple Betty Buzz flavors, garnished with herbs, like mint and basil, and any type of fresh citrus you have on hand.

Lively is hoping Betty Buzz makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a high-quality drink, regardless of their choice to imbibe. She relays a story about Reynolds opting out of a boozy drink at a social gathering and asking her to make him an alcohol-free Betty Buzz cocktail instead.

“That was a neat moment for me,” she says. “To see how it evened the playing field a bit.”

Below, check out Lively’s insider advice for drinking great without alcohol, and some simple-yet-satisfying Betty Buzz recipes that can be made with or without booze.

Take It From Blake: Top Tips for Sober Cocktailing

1. Don’t Feel Pressure to Finish

Betty Buzz bottles are 9 ounces, enough to make two full drinks—but if you only want one, just pop the cap back on. “It stays carbonated,” Lively says.

2. Just a Drop’ll Do Ya

Lively doesn’t drink alcohol, but she appreciates the aromas that an aged bourbon or high-quality gin can add to a cocktail. She’ll rim the glass with a little booze, or even rub some on a garnish of sliced apple or ginger to enjoy the sensory benefits without the alcoholic effects. “You’re not getting enough alcohol to do anything, it’s probably less than vanilla extract but…if you put it right where you’re drinking, so you smell it, you really get that woodiness,” Lively says.

3. Bitters Can Be Better

If you’re avoiding spirits altogether, Lively recommends a few dashes of cassia bark bitters, which can have the same aromatic amplifying effect as a drop or two of bourbon. Play around with other types of bitters, too; there’s a world of potential flavor combinations that can stand in for gin, tequila, and other alcohols.

Both-Ways Betty Buzz Cocktails

While Lively designed Betty Buzz to be enjoyed on its own, sans alcohol, the mixers work just as well when paired with bourbon, gin, and other spirits. Check out the recipes below, which can be made boozy or booze-free.

The ABC

Ingredients

• Betty Buzz Ginger Beer
• 2 droppers cassia bark bitters
• 5 oz apple juice
• 1/2 oz bourbon, or as much as desired (optional)
• Pomegranate seeds and apple slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a tall glass half-full with ice, then add 4 ½ ounces (half-bottle) of Betty Buzz Ginger Beer, apple juice, bitters, and bourbon, if using.
2. Stir to combine, and squeeze two handfuls of pomegranate seeds on top, allowing the fresh juice to drip into the drink.
3. Garnish with remaining seeds and apple slices.
4. Optional: Rub the apple slices with a few drops of bourbon for added aroma.

If Suede Were a Drink

Ingredients

• Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit
• 2 full droppers cassia bark bitters
• Fresh sage, for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a tall glass with ice and add ¾ of the bottle of Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit.
2. Top with two full droppers of cassia bark bitters, and stir to combine.
3. Rub the rim of the glass with fresh sage, then garnish with more sage.
4. Optional: Top with Betty Buzz Meyer Lemon Club Soda for a less spicy drink.

Everything but the Kitchen Drink

Ingredients

• St-Germain liqueur
• Betty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime, Sparkling Grapefruit, and Meyer Lemon Club Soda
• 1/2 oz gin, or as much as desired (optional)
• Mint sprigs, basil leaves, and blood orange slices, for garnish

Directions

1. In a Highball glass, layer 1 cap full of St-Germain and a splash (about 1 oz) each of the Betty Buzz mixers.
2. Stir in gin, if using, and add ice.
3. Garnish generously with mint, basil, and blood orange slices.

Hi friends! How are you? I hope you’re having a wonderful week so far! It’s been a busy one over here because we finished recording the modules and after getting everything ready for a brand new program. We start next Monday and it’s called Total Body Reset!

I teamed up with my good friend and Fitnessista RD, Mia to create this program for ya, and it’s EVERYTHING we wish we had 10-15 years ago. We go over all of the main health foundations, give sustainable tips to implement these habits into your life, plus the *why* behind these tips. It’s not a quick fix; it’s designed to create healthy habits you can keep for LIFE to improve energy, improve body composition, and get happy, balanced hormones.

If you’re feeling:

• hammered by your hormones
• overwhelmed by options
• like what has always worked for you isn’t working anymore
• defeated by diet culture and ready for something more sustainable
• alone and in search of a community

This is your sign to stop looking, and start taking action. Let’s get to the root cause of your body’s needs and solve it, once and for all.

Are you ready?

Sign up here.

As you guys know, I’ve had quite the runaround with my hormones over the years and have documented a lot of this here on the blog. From going off birth control and transitioning to the fertility awareness method, to our difficulties getting pregnant the first time, to my experience with postpartum depression, anxiety, and recovering from surgeries.

My nutrition style has changed over time, my approach to fitness has changed (both for the better!) with everything I’ve learned for my own body, my continuing education and certifications, and real-life experience training clients 1:1 in various aspects of their lives. Mia is a powerhouse of nutrition knowledge and between the two of us and our backgrounds, we’re sharing everything we can with you in the group.

Here’s what’s covered:

– 6 major pillars of health (fitness, fuel, stress management, mindset, hydration, and sleep) and how to create routines that work for your needs, goals, and lifestyle

– An eating strategy to get your energy back, and healthy balanced hormones

– NO tracking, no measuring, and ditching the “diet” mentality for good… while still achieving your goals

I’m so so proud of what we created and can’t wait to share it with you. There’s so much good stuff inside the platform – I’m currently adding all of the bonus materials now – and I’m so pumped to see your results.

Total Body Reset is FOR YOU if:

You don’t know how, when, or what to eat, and feel overwhelmed by contradictory nutrition information

You feel like your nutrition doesn’t match your lifestyle or your goals

You eat as cleanly as possible, just to find yourself feeling deprived and overindulging later

You have a hard time finding motivation or staying consistent in your routine

You’re constantly hopping from trend to trend and feeling defeated

It’s NOT FOR YOU if:

– You feel happy with your current routine and are seeing results

– You don’t need the support of a coach or the accountability of a group

– You’re not ready to make any changes in your health or fitness right now

You can check out all of the info plus FAQs here. The price is currently set at an early bird rate and saves you $200. We also have payment plans available – if you need an alternate payment plan, email me gina@fitnessista.com

Enrollment closes Sunday and I’m not sure when we’ll be doing this again!

Sign up here.

Please leave any questions in the comments below. Let’s go after those goals together and get you feeling amazing.

xoxo

Gina

The post New program alert- join us for Total Body Reset! appeared first on The Fitnessista.

Pre-workout powder can run the gamut. One of the most popular supplements on the market today (most common among gym goers), it’s an estimated $13 billion market and projected to reach well over $20 billion by 2027, according to recent reports. Pre-workout powder can also be one of the most confusing supplements to buy, with seemingly endless options. The biggest challenge is sorting through marketing claims, exaggerated performance benefits, and the opinions of every guy (or salesman) who’s ever taken one to find the best pre-workout powder for you.

The best way to figure out which pre-workout supplement is best for you is to evaluate which ingredients will actually help when you exercise, knowing the right dosage of those ingredients (if it’s even listed on the label), and making sure they’re not banned substances for any particular sport or competitive activity. First, let’s take a quick look at some of the evidence-based ingredients that can amp your workout performance. Following this, check out our top 10 recommended pre-workout supplements on the market.

1. Caffeine

Caffeine is the number one ingredient you’ll find in a pre-workout supplement—and the one you’ll actually feel the most. Benefits include elevated alertness, sharpened focus, faster reaction time, and an overall experience of increased energy. Broad suggested dosage for workout benefit is between 100 to 300 mg—but use with caution as caffeine metabolism and sensitivity is highly individualized.

2. Beta-Alanine

Beta-alanine is a fatigue buffer and a non-essential amino acid that increases carnosine in your muscles. Carnosine helps control your muscle pH and lactic acid build-up while helping you add a few more sets or sprinting seconds during your workout. Best results are reported by non-trained individuals and those who take it consistently over time.

3. Creatine

Creatine can help add power to your workouts by producing and circulating ATP, the energy unit used for muscle contractions. It can also boost immediate power and explosive movements during exercise and training—particularly in the first 10 to 15 seconds of movement.

4. Citrulline

Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that can increase vasodilation (or widening) of the arteries to increase blood flow to working muscles. When consumed, citrulline is converted to arginine, which is then converted to nitric oxide—causing the vasodilation of blood vessels that help with oxygen delivery for performance. L-citrulline and citrulline malate are the two forms typically found in dietary supplements—both providing benefits in the body.

5. Dietary Nitrates

Dietary nitrates are commonly found in certain vegetables (namely beetroot) that contribute to increasing plasma circulation of nitrite and ultimately conversion to nitric oxide availability. This provides a positive effect on enhanced muscle efficiency, fatigue resistance, and performance.

6. Electrolytes

Sodium, chloride, magnesium, and potassium are the main electrolytes that help with fluid balance, neural activity, and muscle contractions in the human body. Certain amounts of these are lost through sweat during activity, and if electrolytes aren’t replaced or become imbalanced, you may experience fatigue, dehydration, cramping, weakness, or confusion. Proper hydration is essential for peak performance during training.

Jordan Mazur, M.S., R.D., is the coordinator of nutrition and team sports dietitian for the San Francisco 49ers.

We often think about what we need to consume before and during a workout in order to crush it, but the foods we consume after can have a huge impact on recovery. Let’s say one of your goals this year is to run your first marathon. Refueling your body after a long training run is vital for swift recovery and helping you hit those important day-to-day goals without hitting the wall. The best fuel for that job: carbohydrates.

Yeah, we know, carbs like bread, pasta, and rice, which our body digests into glucose (causing a spike in blood sugar) have gotten a bad rap in some diet circles. But they’re important for our body’s immediate energy needs—from breathing, thinking, and walking to running and training. Plus, when we don’t use all that glucose in the blood for immediate energy it converts to glycogen—a form of sugar that can be easily stored by our muscles and liver for later access whenever we aren’t in that “fed” (absorptive) state.

Muscle glycogen is the predominant fuel source athletes use (and must restore afterwards) for endurance training—for any strenuous aerobic activity lasting over an hour. In fact, your endurance training and performance is directly related to those glycogen stores. Once it’s depleted during training, you’ll be feeling that telltale energy lapse and fatigue. And while some athletes argue they can function with lower carbohydrate levels than what’s generally recommended, there’s quite a difference between “functioning” and performing optimally.

Those aforementioned high-glycemic carbohydrate foods you consume (adding potatoes, fruits, and maltodextrin supplements to the list above) will help replenish glycogen stores when consumed immediately following an endurance workout. Why? Because muscle tissue is sponge-like and thus rapidly soaks up glucose from high-glycemic carbs when necessary.

So, how many carbs should you be consuming after your workout. The best way to quickly replenish muscle glycogen is to consume 1.2g of high-glycemic carbohydrates per 1kg of body weight immediately after exercise. Waiting over two hours after exercise before replenishing carbohydrates will reduce glycogen synthesis by as much as 50 percent.

What can you do if high-glycemic carbs aren’t available immediately after exercise? Opt for a high-quality supplement to ensure you’re replacing glycogen for optimal performance and recovery. Here are seven of our favorites.

Jordan Mazur, M.S., R.D., is the coordinator of nutrition and team sports dietitian for the San Francisco 49ers.

Table of Contents:

• Transparent Labs Carb Powder
• Performance Lab Carb
• Post JYM Fast-Digesting Carb
• UCAN Energy Powder
• NOW Sports Nutrition Waxy Maize Powder
• Vitargo Carbohydrate Powder
• EFX Karbolyn Fuel

Looking for a unique tool watch that won’t break the bank? The new Esercito Italiano collection from Unimatic, a relatively young Italian watch brand, deserves a place at the top of your shopping list. The collection includes three timepieces, each one a limited-edition version designed in tribute to the Italian armed forces.

The watches are revised versions of Unimatic’s existing U1 dive and U4 field watches, but they come with a few unique aesthetic and functional features that really set them apart. The two U1 models in the collection, the U1-PA (a limited edition of 300) and the U1-PAN (limited to just 150 examples), are both an homage to the Paracadutisti, the paratrooper corps within the Italian army. The logo of the corps, a parachute between a pair of wings, is stamped proudly on the bottom half of the dial on both watches; the logo is engraved on the case backs as well.

The watches also received a notable functional upgrade: Both come with a unidirectional rotating bezel with compass markings, so they can be used for orientation and navigation. And as you’d expect, they’re built to perform in demanding circumstances. They feature tough 40mm stainless steel cases, double-domed sapphire crystal over the dial, and oversized indices with plenty of lume for excellent visibility. They’re paired with a nylon NATO-style strap to help you get a snug fit no matter how many layers you’re wearing.

The only difference between them? The U1-PAN ups the ante with a black DLC finish to resist scrapes and scratches; it also gives the watch a more low-key look.

The U4-TA, limited to just 200 examples, is a tribute to the Comando Truppe Alpine, Italy’s elite mountain warfare force, and the oldest such unit still active in the world. It’s a special version of Unimatic’s U4 field watch, and it comes with a new “foliage green” dial and a matching TPU strap.

Like the divers, the U4-TA features a highly legible dial layout, with large lumed indices and hands, and its military roots are obvious: “Truppe Alpine” is boldly emblazoned at the top. The 40mm stainless steel case features a sandblasted finish, which gives this watch a distinctly solid, rugged look. Better yet, it has the stats to back up that first impression. It’s water resistant to 300 meters, and it’s topped with durable sapphire crystal over the dial.

All three of these military tribute watches are powered by a Seiko automatic movement for reliable timekeeping, and all offer a 41-hour power reserve. With their rugged good looks, proud military pedigree, and bargain price points, these are watches you can feel good about wearing every day. They won’t let you down no matter how gnarly your day gets.

[Starting at $617; unimaticwatches.com]

Get it

The professional golf season is a nearly year-round affair, but the most exciting stretch is fast approaching. The mid-February Genesis Open in Los Angeles was the first big PGA Tour event of the year; up next are the Arnold Palmer Invitational (March 3) and The Players Championship (March 10), both in Florida. Then things really heat up when The Masters begins April 7.

Lately, much of the big news around the tour has not involved actual golf, but rather a (flailing) Saudi Arabian government attempt to sign some of the PGA Tour’s best players. That has not gone off well, and almost all the world’s top golfers will play in the same fields over the next few months.

It’s an exciting time for another reason: Men’s golf is in the latter stages of transitioning to a youth movement. Most of the best players in the world are in their 20s and staring down long, successful careers. But there are only four major championships every year. Two of the world’s top four players, three of the top six, and four of the top 10 have yet to win one, so they still have more career-defining tournament battles ahead—even though they’re already dominant.

As a primer for the season to come, here are six PGA Tour players who have established themselves as forces in the sport—and are right on the doorstep of some crucial wins this spring and summer. They’re sorted by their Official World Golf ranking, and to give you a clearer picture of where they stand early this year, I’ve included their current odds of winning the 2022 Masters as well. (Those are via FanDuel, and +500 means a $100 bet can return a $500 profit.)

 

 

PGA Tour 2022: The Rising Stars to Watch This Year