For our February shaving kit we were very pleased to be able to feature the fantastic shaving oil from PARA MI.
We got in touch with John Bristow, the founder of PARA MI, and he very kindly answered some of our questions on how this shaving oil came to market.
How was PARA MI born, what was the inspiration behind creating this unique shaving oil?
I am a retired airline captain. I worked all of my life for British Airways and because of this I was fortunate enough to travel the world and experience many of the things the world had to offer. Over the years I became very conscious that the environment I was working in was not always beneficial for my health and I also came into contact with many cultures and their beliefs ranging from the Polynesian Islands, the Far East and the Caribbean. I am now convinced and feel passionately that nature has many of the answers to the ills of our Western lifestyle with it's stress and excessive food and product additives. We should listen more to what these diverse cultures have to offer and I have tried to incorporate as much of this into my PARA MI.
I have three grown up sons. Two are clean shaven and one is sporting a well trimmed beard. They are all now PARA MI converts and my son with the beard has found PARA MI to be the perfect beard oil as well as the best medium to trim his beard. They have all suffered to varying degrees with razor burn or a skin reaction that some soaps and perfumes can provoke. I had heard of the concept of using oil as a shaving medium and set about creating one of my own but one that would bring special health giving and lasting benefits to the shaving experience.
From the first I was determined to bring to the market an all natural oil who's constituent parts would bring special beneficial qualities. To achieve this I needed to combine as many oils as practicable and set about experimenting with a variety of oil menus until I found the one that gave maximum long term benefit and gave a close and rash free shave. With the selection of oils I had to balance the shaving experience with the long term health effects.
Did you face any problems and, if so, what was the biggest hurdle to creating PARA MI?
Now this would have been a simple process except for the fact that while I was developing this product the EU had introduced rules and restrictions on the use of cosmetic products. I now had to attend an EU approved course to cover all the legal implications and manufacturing requirements for such a product. The product now had to be submitted for extensive testing for toxicity, for longevity and shelf life classification and for container approval. This done, which took quite some time and expense, I was able to register PARA MI on the EU Cosmetic Product Portal for approval for sale within the EU. One very important aspect of this approval process was that PARA MI was designed to be a "leave on product", thankfully this was achieved.
What makes PARA MI Shaving Oil Unique?
The "leave on" aspect is very important as then the oils can work their magic long after the shave has been completed. PARA MI acts in two ways. First it allows the closest rash free shave possible and second it moisturises and enriches the skin every time the product is used. Although I believe these oils can bring far reaching benefits to the skin and body some of these benefits cannot be fully claimed under strict product advertising legislation. However if you were to cast an eye over the PARA MI website you would see the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and Omega oils contained within PARA MI have been found in many world cultures to be very beneficial to the skin, body and general health. Which was my prime objective.
What are Your Plans For PARA MI In The Future?
I want to see PARA MI compete with the large cosmetic producers and I want to send out a clear message that it is very important what we rub into and onto our skin and that the only way is the natural way, the PARA MI way.
For shaving or for beard oil the same applies. As a clear oil the shaving area is clearly seen and adapts well for beard trimming as well as a beard oil, Of course I realise that your customers enjoy the shaving experience, maybe those presently with beards will join your mailing list shortly!
If you had a tip for any new wet shaver, what would it be?
For new shavers I would ask that they try PARA MI for a period of time to feel and appreciate the benefits of shaving with an oil. Use wet hands to apply the oil and to help distribute it over the shaving area. Don't use too much, three shots should do and most important, when shaving is complete, dab dry, do not wash off and let the oil sink in.
Lastly, how did you come up with the name "PARA MI"?
The name PARA MI came about as I've spent some time in Mallorca and I'm trying to learn Spanish. "Para mi" is a good start with the waiter as it means "for me". My wife laughs because I'm not so good with languages but I thought what a good name for my oil. For Me!
]]>Father's Day is Sunday 17th June this year so why not treat your old man with a gift to brighten his day?
It's never easy knowing what to get the man that has everything. Which is why we got in touch with some of our favourite brands and put together this selection of great gifts he'll love so you don't even have to think.
And to top it off, we've acquired discount codes so you can make a saving too. You're welcome :)
We do not receive any commission or revenue from sharing these ideas with you. They're just a selection of products we think are great (and if you feel like sharing this list of ideas, maybe we'll get more people interested in classic shaving).
Thomas Michaels Black Label Range
Thomas Michaels are an independent Father/Son-owned company committed to bringing artisan, handmade products to individuals who care and strive for originality. Their approach to skincare is that products should be natural where possible and free from synthetic fragrances as well as using ingredients that are sustainable and animal cruelty free.
Last year we featured the Thomas Michaels Black Label Moisturiser in our subscription box service and were blown away by the rave reviews our subscribers gave it. It was possibly our most popular and most talked about product we've ever featured in the subscription. And with good reason! The moisturiser has a classy, masculine scent; and a creamy consistency that absorbs easily into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy.
This is the perfect opportunity to pick up some more of their popular moisturiser for you or a loved one as they're offering our subscribers 20% off for Father's Day.
But it's not just limited to the the moisturiser! You can use the code on their entire range of skin, hair-care and home products.
Use code PERSONALBARBER at checkout for 20% off your order.
https://www.thomasmichaels.co.uk/
BUTTI Eyewear Cases
BUTTI are the name behind these designer eyewear cases that came about from the idea to combine the ease of use and aesthetically pleasing aspects of the leather slip case, with the protective qualities of a conventional clam shell style glasses case. We think you'll agree that their entire range of cases are beautiful. Made from soft Italian calf leather, featuring cushioned, silk lined aluminium cores for optimum protection. Designed to be both elegant and practical, glasses are held in place with a cushioned interior so they won't fall out if held upside down, and a matching leather pull tab with silk ribbon is used to easily, and stylishly, extract them from the case.
Fun Fact: BUTTI is pronounced 'Booty'
Handmade in the UK, the cases come in 4 different types of leather, each with its own unique finish and range of colours to truly stand out. For a surprising and different gift, you can't beat one of these stunning eyewear cases.
Use code FORDAD to get 10% off any of their range.
Fantastic Services
Fantastic Services is your one-stop shop for 25+ professional home cleaning and maintenance services. Now the sun's out, many of you will be looking to fix up the garden and get it looking in shape so you can finally get some use out of it. Treat your dad to one of their services such as a professional gardener so he can sit back with a beer and enjoy the sun without the back-breaking work!
They're mainly based around major cities so if you live somewhere more rural they may not be able to get to you. You can check with your postcode on their site and, if you're lucky enough to be in their catchment area, this could be a very thoughtful gift for Father's Day.
Use code FANTASTICBARBER at checkout to get £10 off one of their services.
Semper Fortis Men's Bracelets
These distinctive men's bracelets from Semper Fortis are the perfect gift for the Dad that appreciates style and a little flare. Each bracelet is handmade in the UK from a range of exotic and exciting materials from simple bead and leather bracelets to those made from stingray or even python leather!
We love the skull motif, great for the rocker dads out there!
Semper Fortis have very kindly offered our subscribers a whopping 30% off any order in their store.
Use code: FATHERSDAY30 at checkout
Check Out The Range Of Bracelets Here
The Personal Barber Wet Shaving Gift Subscription
Surprise, surprise we couldn't create a list of manly gifts without mentioning our own gift options. If you're reading this page you're probably already aware of how our subscription works (if not, check out details of our shaving club here). But if you're looking for a Father's Day gift and you know of a gentleman that could benefit from a proper shaving experience then we have the perfect option for you.
Our gift subscriptions are a one-off purchase meaning you can sign someone up without worrying about getting charged for the renewals.
We offer either a 6-month or a full year's gift subscription on our site.
No code needed. Save up to £24.95 on our subscription options plus a free razor and shaving brush. The year option comes also comes with a free wash-bag bonus.
]]>Below are 5 special offers exclusive to fans of The Personal Barber shaving club :)
Hopefully it makes your shopping lists a little bit easier to tick off.
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We’ve featuring this stunning brand from Austria in the subscription box a couple of times and their products have always been very well received.
Beautiful packaging made from 99% recycled materials, high quality natural ingredients, and sleek design based on 50’s/60’s Italian license plates. You can’t go wrong! Boasting a varied range of products from premium skincare to deodorant, check out their website here:
Special Offer: For a limited time, you can pick up anything from their website for 35% off when using code: TPB35
Expires: 31st December 2019[/lgc_column]
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Another brand we’ve featured in the subscription, their shave oil is going out in the latest box now!
But they also boast a range of oils and haircare products that are all beautifully presented in their unique style. Each product is bound to stand out as a Christmas present.
Check out their website for the full range here:
Special Offer: Get 15% off sitewide with code: TPB15OFF
Expires: 29th Feb 2020[/lgc_column]
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For the wine lover! Each month Nosy enlists the help of an expert who chooses 3 wines from around the world, according to their specialty. You get to experience wine that’s been hand selected by someone at the top of their field (so you know it’s good!) and you also get a magazine with interviews and tasting notes.
Take a bottle as a gift for an upcoming Christmas party and you’ll blow them away with your expert tastes.
Check them out here: https://nosywineclub.com/
Special Offer: Get £10 off your first box with code: ThePersonalBarber[/lgc_column]
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Enjoy carefully selected perfumes & colognes from exclusive brands delivered to you every month.
They have a subscription for men and women so it’s a great gift choice no matter who you’re buying for.
Check out their site here:
Use code: BARBER25 and get 25% off your first box![/lgc_column]
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Give the gift of an amazing shaving experience with our new gift set featuring our premium safety razor and this beautiful gift box.
If you’re a member of our shaving club, you know just how amazing switching to a single blade razor can be. So share the love! With this beautifully presented selection, they’ll have everything they need to get started.
Easy to follow instructions are included so they can dive right in.
Until end of December, use code: GIFTGUIDE25 for 25% off[/lgc_column]
]]>Enter our give-away and be within a chance to win a full 6-month subscription on us!
The Personal Barber 6-month giveaway
To enter the competition, all you have to do is complete one of the tasks via the Gleam widget above. An example would be to sign up to The Personal Barber newsletter (via the widget). Don't worry, we won't share your details with any third parties. Our newsletter is just used to send the occasional update on what's going on at The Personal Barber. You can easily unsubscribe at any time.
Want even more chances to win? You can get extra entries such as tweeting about us, following us on social media or even something as simple as answering a question!
The winner will be drawn within a week after the end date at midnight on Monday 25th May 2015. For full Terms and Conditions check the widget.
The winner will receive a coupon code to their email address that allows them to claim a 6-month shaving subscription from www.thepersonalbarber.com The great thing is, there is no obligation to keep it for yourself, meaning absolutely anyone can enter. If you think this would be a fantastic gift for someone you know (and it would be), you can give the code to them and allow them to claim the prize!
The Personal Barber is a traditional shaving monthly service that aims to make shaving an enjoyable experience rather than a daily chore. Every month get a curated box of wet shaving goodies to enjoy. The first box includes everything needed to have the best shave of your life; a classic safety razor, shaving brush, replacement blades, shaving soaps and more.
From the second month onwards you are surprised with new and exciting products to keep you intrigued and loving your new routine. New soaps, blades, oils, alums, balms, aftershave etc every month is different.
Why traditional shaving gear? Using a classic safety razor and brush to shave is enjoyable in itself, you have full control over the quality of your shave and the ceremony involved in working up a warm, scented lather feels fantastic. There are also numerous benefits to using a single bladed razor and quality soap over those dreaded cartridge razors, such as it being much gentler on the skin (less irritation) and the products aren't packed with stabilisers and propellants that just dry it out.
Check out our website for more info at www.thepersonalbarber.com
Good Luck!
Just some of the feedback we have received from subscribers so far:
"All the products are great. This has totally changed my shaving regime, I now look forward to shaving and it has become more a thing of pleasure rather than a chore. My wife has commented on how excited about shaving I seem to have become. I cant wait to see what future boxes will contain."
"Love it. This was my 2nd box and was really excited when it arrived and was not disappointed. The soaps are really good and I really like the balm. Keep up the good work, looking forward to what the May box has to hold. A born again shaver !"
"Fast service, great products, happy customers!"
Check out some of our recent boxes that went out to subscribers for a peek at the kind of things we include in the subscription:
This competition has been posted at ThePrizeFinder - See more at: http://www.theprizefinder.com/content/mens-6-month-wet-shaving-subscription#sthash.dNzYz0kt.dpuf
]]>To enter the competition, all you have to do is complete one of the tasks via the Gleam widget above. An example would be to sign up to The Personal Barber newsletter (via the widget).
Want even more chances to win? You can get extra entries such as tweeting about us, following us on social media or even something as simple as answering a question!
The winner will be drawn within a week after the end date at midnight on 30th April 2016. For full Terms and Conditions check the widget.
The prize is the entire line-up of Menage Skincare Products For Men. We've tried these products and can vouch that they are spectacular!
DEEP PORE CLEANSING FACE SCRUB - Revitalising natural volcanic scrub for brighter, smoother skin from the first wash. The low lather microfoam helps keep skin hydrated and rinses off in seconds.
ANTI-AGEING MOISTURISER SPF15 -Fast absorbing moisturiser for an invisible, matte look every day. Combines intense hydration, 5* UVA protection, and skin repairing retinoids. Best for drier skin.
HYDRATING AGE DEFENCE GEL - Instantly absorbing ultralight gel for fresh feeling & long lasting matte-look hydration. The antioxidant formula reduces visible signs of ageing. Best for oilier skin.
DAILY HAND REPAIR - Instant absorbing hand cream to rehydrate and repair damaged skin, but leave hands completely non-greasy and ready to carry on working.
ANTI-FATIGUE EYE ROLL-ON - Caffeine enriched eye roll-on to combat visibly tired eyes. The invisible cooling serum absorbs quickly to help reduce fine lines, dark circles & under eye bags.
The winner will be contacted via their provided email so we can get your address and post it out to you. The great thing is, there is no obligation to keep it for yourself, meaning absolutely anyone can enter. If you think this would be a fantastic gift for someone you know, you can still enter and give them the prize!
The Personal Barber is a traditional shaving monthly service that aims to make shaving an enjoyable experience rather than a daily chore. Every month get a curated box of wet shaving goodies to enjoy. The first box includes everything needed to have the best shave of your life; a classic safety razor, shaving brush, replacement blades, shaving soaps and more.
From the second month onwards you are surprised with new and exciting products to keep you intrigued and loving your new routine. New soaps, blades, oils, alums, balms, aftershave etc every month is different.
Why traditional shaving gear? Using a classic safety razor and brush to shave is enjoyable in itself, you have full control over the quality of your shave and the ceremony involved in working up a warm, scented lather feels fantastic. There are also numerous benefits to using a single bladed razor and quality soap over those dreaded cartridge razors, such as it being much gentler on the skin (less irritation) and the products aren’t packed with stabilisers and propellants that just dry it out.
Check out our website for more info at www.thepersonalbarber.com
Good Luck!
]]>