CAR A/S Moisture Cream (Peppermint)

This balm is sold by Enchante, of Method Shaving fame. I live in Austin, so I went down and met Charles Roberts for the first time. He definitely is passionate about his products and methods; I can see why some people think he's a little over the top. I'm not really sold on the rest of Method Shaving, but this balm is excellent. I usually just use witch hazel in the summer, but I needed something extra moisturizing for use in the winter months. This works better than anything else I've found on the market. As per Charles's directions, I apply a little dab with my fingertips and work it in with a little water. It keeps my face from drying out all day and has helped with razor burn quite a bit.

Charles told me that the peppermint is his top seller, and I can see why. It has a nice refreshing scent and a nice cooling effect. I should note that Charles mixes the peppermint oil into the balm right when you order it, so the scent may fade after some time.

My only complaint about this product is the price -- at $35 it costs more than most of the items in my shave den. However, you use very little product each time, so the 2 oz tub should last me a good 6-9 months.

- please note this review is for the lavender balm and not the peppermint.

I did finally received the tonic and balm a couple of weeks ago - thanks to Canadian customs for taking their sweet time - and have been using both since with great results. The results are pretty clear thusfar, better skin tone, less irritation and generally healthier skin. The tonic effectively and quickly resolves any burn or irritation. The balm has more long term results.

The first couple of applications were a little "greasy" for lack of a better term. However, after moderating the amount of balm, and I believe with consistent longer use, it seems to be working better over time and I don't notice this anymore. Maybe it's a product that takes a few uses to absorb? Not sure about that, but regardless I think it's a great product for those with either sensitive skin and especially those with dry skin and will be particularly effective in the winter dry weather. I'm now using both the tonic and balm under my eyes with positive results - bonus. The only place I don't use it - and you could I suppose - is on my forhead since I have combination skin and I feel it isn't necessary there or warranted.

Regarding smell, the conditioning balm is lavender, but I can't really notice it over the "smell" of the balm itself...if that makes sense. It doesn't smell like lavender to me, rather more like a cocoa butter. The tonic smells great, burgemot (sp?), but is subdued and doesn't clash with my cologne or last particularly long. BTW, they offer both in a variety of sents, I selected the above, and will likely try something else when I re-order. Not because I didn't like either, but because I like to try new ones.

So, just to summarize, they're great products. I will be continuing to purchase them when I run out, but I can't see that happening for some time since you use very little per use. Some may find it expensive ($35 for 2 oz. balm and $15 for tonic plus shipping). However, given the small quantity per use I find it very cost effective, especially when considering the results.

Cheers,

Doug

Simply the best. Pure magic. Expensive, but worth it. I've dropped cash on so many aftershaves balms and the only thing that even comes close on a cost/performance ratio is Wesley & Scott by shaving essentials. It keeps the face moisturized for a good few hours. Superfood for the face... ahhh. Also it's doubles as a nice night time face moisturizer. A must for the winter months.

I still like my alcohol splashes after a nice straight shave, but when my face starts to get even a hint of dryness this is the "creme de la creme" "miracle cure." Props to Chas, he is quite the alchemist. It doesn't get any better than this.