As the 2024 presidential election draws nearer, nearly 75% of Americans report healthcare costs as a primary financial worry according to a new study from KFF. Americans have every reason to feel this way: over the last five decades per capita healthcare spending has increased from $353 in 1970 ($2,072 adjusted for inflation) to $13,493 today. But care quality has not increased by the same rate – rather, patients are simply paying more today for the same “one-size-fits-all” treatments.
Rising costs and poor quality, however, are not the result of this administration or that one. They are a function of deeper problems endemic to the American healthcare industry itself.
Added attention to the cost of care gives healthcare stakeholders the opportunity to step back and evaluate American healthcare as a whole. It is incumbent on us to think through system level changes and reshape the future of care delivery in this country.
Fortunately, home-based healthcare paradigms like hospice, that have long been recognized as the least institutionalized and profit-driven segments of the healthcare industry, offer a model for a return to healthcare sanity.
American healthcare is beset by skyrocketing costs that force many patients to choose between their health and their financial stability. The statistics are staggering: Healthcare is the primary reason that Americans file for bankruptcy. Over half of Americans––57%––report having had some medical debt over the last five years.
What’s more, the United States spends much more on healthcare per person than peer nations; some studies suggest we spend twice as much. As the most prosperous, innovative country on Earth, our healthcare system should be the best. Instead, it’s one of the worst amongst wealthy countries.
Numerous factors contribute to the escalating costs of traditional American healthcare systems. One leading cause is that many healthcare providers have gone all-in on physical infrastructure, building giant campuses that cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build and maintain, often relying on federal subsidies for construction and modernization.
But huge complexes are not the only option. In fact, the home and community based care model shows the way forward for a new kind of healthcare.
Patients often prefer to be treated at home rather than shuttling back and forth to hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices and other care facilities. The comfort of the home environment alleviates anxiety and eliminates the stressful time spent in traffic, looking for parking and navigating unfamiliar medical settings. It allows patients to receive care in familiar surroundings with the support of their loved ones.
Rates of telehealth usage corroborate these preferences. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, most providers did not offer telehealth options, but once close physical proximity became hazardous, providers began to offer it. One study found that telehealth visits increased from 840,000 in 2019 to an astonishing 52.7 million in 2020. While numbers have fallen somewhat since their peak in 2020, rates of telehealth use now are exponentially higher than they were pre-pandemic.
Just as importantly, the at-home care model makes price easier to control by reducing expensive real estate and physical infrastructure costs. One study found that home-based programs effectively reduced complications while cutting the cost of care by 30%. Another found that mean cost of care was 38% lower, and that, compared with patients in traditional campus-based facilities, at-home patients spent a smaller proportion of the day sedentary and were readmitted less frequently.
Detractors point out that some complex procedures can only take place in a hospital environment, with expensive equipment and specialized medical staff, making it infeasible to treat certain conditions at home.
To this I heartily agree. Specialized campuses have their place in the healthcare ecosystem and play an indispensable role in the healthcare delivery process. They should not, however, aggregate all evaluation, treatment and checkup into a single location. A major procedure should take place at the hospital; many subsequent checkups need not. Yearly physicals, diagnostic tests like blood tests, routine vaccinations and counseling sessions require travel and waiting rooms, often needlessly. A great deal more healthcare can take place in the home, leaving valuable bandwidth available for specialized facilities when they are needed.
America’s campus-based system is overbuilt and over-complicated, creating misaligned incentives. Costs are spiraling out of control. The time for small tweaks has passed. It’s time to think big, cut to the root of the problem, and find solutions. But before we reinvent the wheel, let’s look to existing models like home and community based care to give us a blueprint.
If you’re anything like us, after a long winter keeping us inside all you want to do is spend the summer (or a mid-season getaway) soaking up the sun. While “sun’s out guns out” is definitely a solid justification for cool muscle tops and tee shirts, it’s starting to apply less and less to bottoms.
While society phases out awkward length, overly-pocketed cargo shorts for the warmer weather, a new trend has emerged to take its place: men’s beach pants.
Men’s Beach pants come in all different styles, fabrics, and colors, but they all have one goal in mind — bridging the gap between comfort and style so you can strut the sand (or any of your summer destinations) with confidence.
Whether you’re a total beach bum or a day-tripper, a pair of men’s beach pants are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe. Not sure where to start your search? Keep reading for our carefully selected list of the best men’s beach pants to find our picks for your most comfortable summer ever.
Who said you couldn’t beach on a budget? Certainly not coofandy men’s beach pants. These pants are on Amazon for a steal at just under $30 – affording the same trendy look and feel for less than half the cost.
Made of a lightweight cotton blend with an elastic drawstring waist and roomy pockets, these men’s beach pants are perfect for both activity and leisure.
Unfortunately, the size chart for these pants is a little all over the place, so we recommend taking your own measurements and reading reviews before adding these to your cart. Pair them with your most comfortable sandals to hit the boardwalk for a relaxed fit.
Add an air of luxury and refinement to your summer wardrobe with Luca Faloni Lipari linen trousers. Crafted in Northern Italy from lightweight, breathable linen, these pants are designed to keep you feeling cool while (also) looking cool.
Made with adjustable internal waist drawstrings and roomy pockets, as well as an elegant button closure, these pants combine modern, elegant details with functionality.
These pants are definitely a splurge hovering around $170, but worth it for the day to night practicality. Roll them up for a relaxed beach look or pair them with a relaxed linen shirt for all of your summertime adventures.
There’s no better time to show off a statement piece than when you’re on island time, and Wax London’s Kurt trouser is certainly a statement piece. Printed with a bold, floral pattern and bright colors, these pants are sure to turn heads in the best way.
Their cotton blend construction and drawstring waist ensure maximum comfort, while their straight-legged cut provides a modern, wearable look.
Since these pants have a cropped leg that stops at the ankle, make sure you’re OK with that before you buy. Pair these with a plain tailored tee and a cool jewelry accent and step out in style on a warm summer night.
Summer style is all about how to get the highest level of style while exerting the least effort. Percival Linen Dress trousers are the answer to this problem. Pairing the breezy, effortless look of linen with the cut and waist of a dress pant, these pants can take you from a day on the beach to dinner with no problem – you can even bring them over to your fall wardrobe with some strategic pairing.
Made of 100% linen, these trousers have the breathability of casual linen pants with the style of a pair of modern slacks. Swap out your beach tee or tank for a tailored button-down or lightweight sweater and you’ll be ready for the nightlife in no time.
For everyone feeling overwhelmed by men’s beach pants because they JUST caught up with the jogger’s trend, Scotch & Soda has a simple and elegant solution.
Their Warren Linen-Blend jogger offers the best of both worlds mixing comfort and trendy all in one. Their tapered, chino cut provides the silhouette you love while the cotton-linen blend gives you the beach feel you’re looking for.
The Warren jogger ensures that you don’t sacrifice practicality for style with its drawstring waist and roomy pockets. We’ve noticed that the color option for the trousers verges more towards the bright and pastel side, so if you’re someone looking to make a bold statement this summer, these men’s beach pants are for you.
Nobody embodies island time quite like Tommy Bahama, so it makes sense that they’d be a top contender for the best beach pants a man can throw his money at.
Tommy Bahama’s Linen Elastic-Waist pants put the fun in function, pairing the signature relaxed look of a linen pant with a sturdy, hidden drawstring waist and roomy front pockets.
Their linen blend is lightweight and breathable, so you can feel as cool as you’re guaranteed to look. We’ve noticed that these pants run a little long, so be sure to keep that in mind during your shopping. Pair it with a Tommy Bahama cologne, a top or any other fun button down and get ready to soak up the sun.
If you’re looking for beach pants to upgrade your resort-style cred, Love Brand & Co. has got you covered. Their Eleuthera Linen Trousers are the perfect cross between style and comfort– meaning you’ll never want to take them off. The relaxed fit and adjustable waist allow for easy movement, while the 100% linen material is easy and breezy. Meanwhile, the bold patterns and colors take your fashion game to the next level.
Love Brand & Co. is a partner with wildlife charities that aid in the conservation of elephants and endangered species, so you know you can feel good about where your money is going when you shop with them. Pair these bold pants with a white linen shirt and get ready to strut the sand.
If you’re starting your search for the best pair of men’s pants, you can’t go wrong with simple, classic linen. A Day’s March Tamiat Drawstring linen trousers are precisely that.
These breezy trousers have a relaxed fit with an adjustable waist for maximum comfort, and their breathable linen fabric will make you wish you never have to take them off.
And you don’t have to – at least this summer, that is – since their trendy style and basic, neutral colors can take you from a day on the beach to an evening happy hour with ease; just swap those sandals for loafers and that T-shirt for a button down.
One thing to take note of: We’ve noticed that the relaxed cut of these trousers means they can run big, so we recommend sizing down for a more streamlined fit.
If you feel out to sea with the beach pants trend, let us help reel you back in. You should seriously consider three elements while looking for the right pair for you.
Fit
The first is their fit. With men’s beach pants, the main priority is comfort, so how they fit around your waist and legs is hugely important. Typically, beach pants have a loose, flowy fit to keep you cool and comfortable in the summer heat, so you should look for pants that are loose, but not so loose that they fall down or get in your way.
The second thing you should have in mind while looking for a pair of men’s beach pants is the fabric. One of the top buzzwords of the men’s beach pants trend is breathability, so you need to make sure you’re looking for a fabric that will help you beat the heat. When it comes to men’s beach pants, linen and cotton blends are the way to go to achieve this effect.
Color
The last thing to keep an eye out for while you look for a pair of men’s beach pants is the color. As we move away from the dull, drab look of cargo shorts, men’s beach pants provide a bright, cool palette cleanser. If you’re someone who’s wanted to dive into patterns or bold colors in your wardrobe but don’t know where to start, try taking the leap with a pastel or striped beach pants to hit the sand in style.
FAQ
Aside from their comfort, an added benefit of beach pants is that they’re incredibly versatile in the warmer months. You can take them from the beach to dinner with just a simple change of top. For a casual look, pair them with a basic T-shirt or tank top, or dress it up with a fitted button down or light-weight sweater.
While men’s beach pants may look more casual on their own, the right pair of shoes can dress them up or down depending on the occasion. For a relaxed look, pair them with a pair of sandals or low top canvas sneakers, or dress them up for evening wear with a pair of loafers or docksiders.
While conversational AI is presently top of mind for every healthcare CIO, many are focused on short-term initiatives that will quickly improve operations, generate immediate ROI, and have a direct impact on the bottom line. But figuring out where to begin – identifying reliable solution partners who have extensive references, those with the proven ability to provide immediate improvements to operational efficiency, as well as deliver transformative digital health solutions as the health system infrastructure becomes ready for the change – is a challenge. How long will it take for the health system to start seeing ROI on the expenditure? How can decision-makers feel confident that workforce challenges like personnel shortages and staff burnout will improve, and that patient satisfaction will go up, not down? This is why healthcare executives are losing sleep!
Taking a pragmatic, phased approach to implementing conversational AI is affordable and can make things better for most health systems in as little as 30 days. Answering the phone and navigating a caller to the right resource is a complex process in a large health system. This complexity may explain why so few organizations do it well. An outdated, clumsy process for answering and navigating calls equals revenue leakage and wasted labor! Underperformance has huge cost implications because this process happens millions of times each year across the network of care. To create friction-free self-service for a diverse calling community requires the right technology and a robust routing engine that enables seamless communication across a large enterprise with entrenched silos.
Parlance, a leader in the healthcare IT space, works with many of the largest health systems in the country to alleviate contact center and switchboard burdens. More than a thousand hospitals and clinics partner with Parlance to elevate patient engagement and create operational efficiency.
In the current ecosystem of omni channel offerings, phone calls remain the clear preference of patients. The voice channel accounts for 70% of queries to hospitals and clinics, with individual health systems receiving millions, or even tens of millions of calls each year. In retail and hospitality sectors consumers often favor visiting a website for information, and email communication can feel more efficient. But healthcare is a very different landscape. People who call hospitals are waiting on crucial test results, seeking information for loved ones, inquiring about financial arrangements, needing to make a last-minute appointment due to injury or sickness…and some of these things push their emotions to the limit. These are not the kind of calls that can be delayed or rushed.
On the other hand, 50% to 60% of calls to health systems are relatively routine and can be automated. If it’s easy for people to speak naturally and get to the person, department, or information they need, most will happily self-serve.
Health systems across the nation are partnering with Parlance to reduce handling time and deflect repetitive tasks from agents, creating huge operational savings and improving patient calling experiences. Allowing agents to work at the top of their skill sets and reducing friction for callers delivers significant results to the bottom line.
“ROI for Parlance occurred within 90 days! If you’re a CIO looking for a quick win in the budget cycle, I would do this,”
Andy Draper, regional CIO for HCA Healthcare.
A health system in the Western U.S with 10 hospitals and 65 clinics saved 6,070 agent hours each month by partnering with Parlance, contributing to annual savings of $1.45 million. At a time when hospitals are trying to do the most with the least staff, these savings are critical.
USA Three Color Map – America Background
CIOs are committed to implementing technology solutions that enhance patient care and boost operational efficiency while also integrating into the complex systems and business applications that are already a part of their health system’s unique environment. Implementing conversational AI to support contact center and switchboard operations is a practical approach that delivers results instantly. And scaling use of the technology can happen in phases that align with the business. A phased approach provides a steady stream of improvements – a win for patients and a win for the business.
“For more than 25 years, Parlance has been developing and leveraging the best of speech-enabled technologies. Today, Parlance has a practical and affordable approach to deploying conversational AI, and it’s fueling unprecedented growth for our business,” says Scott D’Entremont, Chief Revenue Officer at Parlance. “Our legacy of results speaks for itself. We have references from health systems across the country who have partnered with us for decades. Not just C-suite executive references, but references from go-live teams, patient access managers, healthcare consultancies, and operators/agents too. Parlance is a managed service subscription that provides not only industry-leading technology, but an ongoing partnership with tenured experts who take ownership of performance and guarantee ROI. We deliver immediate operational efficiencies while leading the charge toward client-readiness for integration of cutting-edge digital health innovations in conversational AI.”
Seventy-nine percent of CEOs ranked “burnout among non-physician staff” as one of the most pressing workforce challenges, according to a 2024 Becker’s Hospital Review article. “Patient satisfaction” and “access to care” were also ranked in the top 10 most concerning issues facing health systems today, by health system executives.
If you’re looking for an easy, sexy fragrance at a steal, your best bets are the best Playboy colognes. For nearly two decades, the iconic brand that put out its first magazine issue in 1953 has been steadily releasing some 40-odd colognes, some to greater success than others.
But let’s face it, even their least successful fragrance is the closest most of us will ever get to the Playboy Mansion. That ain’t a bad deal.
As for the great ones, they’re approachable, they’re sweet, and—unlike the classmate that sold my now-husband a 1975 issue of Playboy for $30 in the boys bathroom—they’re affordable. Like, really affordable. The priciest on this list won’t set you back even $20.
Of course, as you might imagine, none of the scents are super complex. But they’re definitely delicious. Intoxicating, even. The easiest way to woo the woman you’re sweet on—though dinner and drinks and courteousness won’t hurt, either (I promise).
Now, let’s take a peek at the top 7 Playboy colognes money can buy.
Key Takeaways
For this assignment, I began poring over hundreds of photos, customer reviews, and even my own bathroom cabinet (and my husband’s) until I whittled it down to the 7 finalists you see here.
Overall, the best Playboy cologne is Playboy New York because it’s a pleasant, slightly masculine everyday scent with a light, fresh, and sweet profile that everyone seems to love. For an intoxicating, boozier scent, try King of the Game.
Why it’s great: Intended to evoke the dynamism of New York, this Playboy cologne is surprisingly approachable. A sensual mix of wood, fruit, and spice notes, it’s the perfect masculine aroma for Spring, Summer, and Fall. It’s a vinyl, aromatic, and vanilla fragrance that is light, airy, fresh, and sweet.
A pleasant scent that leaves a leafy green and vanilla smell on the skin. Like a cozy blanket, it’s heavy in the dry down, thanks to tonka bean and vanilla. Though it may be safe and somewhat linear, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser, definitely one of the best Playboy colognes.
Who is this for? Ideal for the confident, elegant man who craves a pleasant, everyday masculine scent.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Although it’s not necessarily bold, it’s an inoffensive fragrance that is both subtle and muted.
Top Notes: Vinyl, aldehydes, lime | Middle Notes: Green apple, elemi resin, black pepper | Base Notes: Vanilla, vetiver, tonka bean |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: This scent is perfect for a cool, rainy day, so it’s no wonder it bears the name of foggy London Town. Its warm, spicy, woody, citrus aroma is what you crave in the cooler months.
Reviewers seem to love it because it’s well-balanced and pleasant with reasonable performance. Like a golden retriever puppy, it’s soft, warm, innocent, and playful. And unlike most other Playboy colognes, it’s not overly sweet.
Here is subtle tonka cognac sweetness blended with spicy saffron and cinnamon for plenty of warmth. This smooth and creamy aromatic scent is sure to garner some compliments.
Who is this for? Blended for the gentleman charmer who is just a little bit bad. Spritz it on before work, running errands, or a cozy coffee date.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: This isn’t a nightlife or going out scent but a pleasant, reliable choice that’s not without its charms.
Top Notes: Mandarin orange, galbanum, grapefruit | Middle Notes: Cinnamon, anise, saffron, opoponax, green notes, myrtle | Base Notes: Cognac, tonka bean, Virginia cedar |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: Like a bit of buttered fruit loaf fresh from the toaster, there’s something irresistible about King of the Game. As the name implies, it’s intoxicating, with a spicy booziness that is slightly sweet.
This is one of the best Playboy colognes. The opening is lemony and sweet, with a burst of apple in the middle and cardamom throughout, giving it an energy drink vibe.
It may be fruity, but it’s still manly and musky. Perfect for a night out in the shoulder months, it’s a rather unique mix is the kind of scent that women love.
Who is this for? For the younger guy who wants them to lean in close and say, “mm, you smell delicious.”
Flaws but not deal-breakers: No crazy projection here, but it does boast a solid 7 hours of longevity.
Top Notes: Cardamom, black pepper, lemon | Middle Notes: Granny smith apple, coffee | Base Notes: Vanilla, patchouli, cedar |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: Although most Playboy colognes are for the youthful fellow, the warm and dark allure of Play it Wild carries a whiff of maturity. Similar to Paco Rabanne 1 Million, it’s a sweet and fruity cologne with hints of warm, spicy, and amber. That fruitiness is notable in the opening, mingled with hints of citrus.
The dry down is all warmth thanks to leather, tonka bean, and amber. Notes of chocolate are present throughout. This is one of the best Playboy colognes. Sweet like sugar with a bit of spice, it’s got just the right amount of class.
Who is this for? A sexy scent for the guy who demands attention, Play it Wild warms the skin in Fall and Winter.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: Although it lasts a long time, there isn’t a huge amount of projection here.
Top Notes: Nutmeg, grapefruit, lemon | Middle Notes: Cinnamon, pineapple, blueberry, dark chocolate | Base Notes: Leather, tonka bean, amber |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: It’s hard to imagine a scent called Hollywood being underrated, but here we are. This oriental-woody fragrance is somewhat of a hidden gem with a delightful aroma that works all year long.
It opens with a citrusy spark tinged with aromatic notes of thyme and elemi before entering its calming, floral heart that gives off elegance and subtleness while finally drying down into a comfortable, warm, and erotic finish.
Here is the embodiment of wearable masculinity. Spritz on this killer mix of aromatic lavender, warm vanilla, and fresh bergamot on a slightly cool evening, and you’ll easily confuse it with a higher-end fragrance.
Who is this for? This is definitely for the distinguished gentleman looking for a versatile, aromatic, woody scent.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: It’s not a powerhouse, but this isn’t exactly the scent that craves constant attention.
Top Notes: Bergamot, elemi resin, mandarin orange, thyme, Brazilian rosewood | Middle Notes: Lavender, jasmine, Virginia cedar | Base Notes: Vanilla, musk, sandalwood, amber, vetiver |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: Luxurious, glamorous, and seductive, VIP has the allure you’re looking for. It’s got that sweet Playboy DNA, with aromatics and delicious notes of rum. In fact, sweet citrus rum is what first hits your nose, followed by a sweet and powdery white chocolate dry down.
It may boast charisma, but this is more of a close encounter scent. A playful, joyful, and sweet amber fragrance that glows on the skin best in the winter months.
Who is this for? This is one of the best Playboy colognes. It’s a go-to fragrance for the charming fellow who doesn’t take himself too seriously and often finds himself in the right place at the right time.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: The opening can be too cloying if over-sprayed, so spritz with caution.
Top Notes: Rum, rhubarb, bergamot | Middle Notes: Red apple, lavender, water notes | Base Notes: White chocolate, tonka bean, sandalwood |Type: Eau de Toilette
Why it’s great: Because they’re predominantly sweet, Playboy colognes aren’t exactly known for being aquatic. However, Ibiza makes a fresh and fruity fragrance with green, aquatic notes reminiscent of—you guessed it—the island known for pleasure and beauty.
In an effort to embody the ethos of rest and fun known in Ibiza, it has a fresh and soapy opening and is smooth and warm with musk and wood at its heart before it transforms to fresh again in the dry down. Boasts a lovely composition with an attractive 8 hours longevity that’s perfect from beach to club.
Who is this for? For the guy looking to embody a luxurious, carefree feeling associated with summer.
Flaws but not deal-breakers: It’s sharp, bitter, dry, and salty, like a more synthetic version of Bvlgari Aqua.
Top Notes: Water notes, kiwi, citruses, red berries | Middle Notes: Green notes, lavender, artemisia, tarragon | Base Notes: Nutmeg, suede, black tea, woodsy notes |Type: Eau de Toilette
Buying Considerations for The Best Playboy Colognes
Season
Warm and sweet, Playboy colognes are typically suited to the cooler months. If you are ever in doubt about the best season for a scent, then there are clues within the notes.
Warming spices like cinnamon, saffron, and nutmeg, plus notes of rum, leather, and chocolate, which are commonly found in Playboy colognes, are best in the cooler air of Fall, Winter, and sometimes Spring. However, the citrus and water notes present in Playboy Ibiza make it suitable for heat.
Occasion
Not every scent is suited for every moment, no matter how much or how little you spray. Deep, warm, and sexy scents with notes of booze or chocolate are usually for nights out. Fresher, lighter, airier scents are better suited to daytime activities, like Playboy Hollywood.
However, some scents, like Playboy New York, are easy enough for any time of day. You don’t want anything too rich or overpowering for the office or family time, say.
Price
Fortunately, Playboy colognes are pretty darn cheap. This is great for young guys or simply the cost-conscious fellow. Most can be found for under $15, and some cost a mere $10. If finding a cologne that doesn’t break the bank is what you’re after, then investing in the best Playboy colognes is a must.
With so many Playboy colognes out there, it can be tough to determine which ones are the best. They all claim to smell great, but not all of them carry the same weight.
So, I chose only the best Playboy colognes according to popular fragrance blogs and customer reviews before landing on the top 7 that you see here. I was careful to choose colognes that people loved and bought over and over.
Accessibility: Not every Playboy cologne is easy to snag on the marketplace. And we all know that some websites sell fakes. I was sure to feature scents that are easy to find online and from reputable sites that you can trust.
Customer reviews: Perhaps the most important aspect of choosing a Playboy cologne is how people feel about it. Which name comes up over and over on the blogs? And how do people react in the reviews? Undoubtedly, I weigh customers’ takes heavily.
Transparency: What information is listed about a fragrance? I made sure all the notes were available, including the nose behind the scent, the release date, and more.
Why Trust Us?
Rachel Cascella is a Fashionbeans staff writer with a nose that knows a thing or two about scents. For several years now, she has made sniffing and studying the best colognes out there a top priority.
She combines a love of research and a passion for fragrance to give you pointers on how to find the best colognes under 50 bucks, the best woody scents, and even the best of Dolce and Gabbana colognes.
For this quest, Rachel read countless reviews and spoke to industry experts. She’s nothing if not thorough. Trust us when we tell you that Rachel is the perfect person to recommend the best Playboy colognes. Her word is gold.
Final Verdict
The best Playboy colognes are always affordable, relatively sweet, and have a pleasant profile that most people enjoy. My top pick is Playboy New York because it’s an approachable, everyday scent with a light and airy freshness that is a crowd-pleaser.
FAQ
Playboy colognes are known for smelling attractive and sweet at a low price point. They’re a great jumping off point if you’re just getting into colognes. They’re also wonderful if you’re on a budget.
Many scents, including Playboy Hollywood and Playboy London, are great for every day. Just make sure not to overdo it.
Key chains are one of those things we love but don’t talk about much. I think it’s time to have that chat. When you’re in the market for a new piece of flair, you only want the best key chain. Whether you’re trying to look slick, find a great gift, or need a keychain to solve a problem, the options are out there and easily accessible.
Men’s key chains can be more useful than people give them credit for. Sure, grade schoolers litter their book bags with them, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a keychain that will fend off an attacker or open a beer after you’ve fended off an attacker. This probably won’t happen, but why not be prepared?
Key chains do so much now that it can be tough to find the best one for you. FashionBeans did all the legwork, so whatever type of key chain you’re looking for, there’s a solid chance you’ll find it in this guide.
Material: Italian Leather | Colors Available: Black, Navy | Extra features: Attracts Admirers
When we look for the best key chain for men overall, it makes sense to find something anyone can appreciate. This minimalist Italian leather key chain from Roderer fits that bill perfectly. It has a distinguished look that sports a logo that fashionistas will recognize. Plus, it has a quality build to match.
It isn’t anything intricate, but it’s classy as hell. Even if they play it cool, onlookers will admire this key chain. So don’t be surprised if you see someone staring at your keys; they don’t want to steal your car, just your fashion sense. Bonus points for being a designer key chain you won’t need to sell your kidney to afford it.
Material: Aluminum| Colors Available: Gray | Extra features: Flashlight
Shopping for the best key chain flashlight? Chances are you want to avoid anything bulky. You probably don’t need something that will light up the entire neighborhood, and you don’t want to blind anyone… Hopefully. Lexall definitely found the perfect middle ground between size and power with this key chain flashlight.
It’s no bigger than a typical flash drive (remember those?) but still packs a noteworthy 300 lumens. To put it in layman’s terms, it will light up your backyard but won’t burn out someone’s eyes like a beastly 1000-lumen Maglite. That means it’s great for walking to the car, taking the dog out, or navigating a dark house. Preferably your own house.
When your key chain is holding something as important as an Apple Air Tag, you’ll want a durable build. That’s why we went with Belkin for this one. Belkin’s been known to make some of the highest-quality accessories if you weren’t aware. Even keychains.
This key chain has a locking feature, so there’s no way your AirTag is falling out, and raised edges will keep it from getting scratched up if you drop it. It comes in a few distinct colors too. That way, you can match it to your personality or mood that day.
Who cares if it’s marketed for women? When you need to make some noise, you want the best key chain with an alarm on the market. She’s Birdie (yes, that’s the brand name) managed to create just that in sleek key chain form. Now you can have a loud-ass alarm with you anywhere you take your keys. You could even stick it in your pocket separately, it won’t take up much space.
It comes in a fun flavor selection, too. It might not be the most classically “masculine” color, but what guy doesn’t love baby blue? Not many. Remember, this thing packs a serious screech. It won’t project toward you, but it’s still going to be as loud as hell. It just won’t sound like a fire truck like it does to everyone else. Don’t stress on that, though. Getting folks’ attention is kind of the point.
She’s Birdie also claims to donate 5% of their profits to women’s support groups, shelters, and other non-profits that help women in need. Those are causes 100% worth supporting.
Listen, we said it’s the best key chain that opens bottles, not that it’s the cheapest. You will spend over $300 on this little piece of silver, but it’s also the sexiest bottle opener I’ve ever seen. You’ve probably never called a bottle opener sexy, but that’s about to change.
You probably know about Burberry already, so it goes without saying this key chain is about as luxurious as a bottle opener gets. It’s made in Italy with sterling silver plated metal, and the heavy-duty lobster clasp will make sure this pricey, travel-friendly beer cracker never falls off of your key ring.
Best friend key chains are important to tons of people, regardless of gender. It might be a classically “feminine” practice, but I think it’s time to change. Besides, we all have best friends that end up leaving town, or we leave town ourselves. When change hits, it’s always nice to remember the times you had together.
The most lovable feature of this keychain is that it’s shaped like three interlocking puzzle pieces, while most BFF products have only two parts. Considering some people have more than one best friend, Vadaka tapped into a well-deserved demographic. Keep in mind if you only have one BFF, any two of these key chains will work just fine as a pair.
Material: Stainless Steel | Colors Available: Black, Brown | Extra features: A Freaking Ninja Sword
Not everyone wants a plain ol’ key chain knife. So here’s the best key chain knife for snazzier gents—the Pocket Ninja from StatGear. It isn’t just a fully functional pocket-sized knife, but it’s also a damn ninja sword. It sounds so cool you probably already bought it.
Guys have an unexplainable attraction to samurai swords. If you’re one of those guys, you know you can’t just bring your katana with you wherever you go. Well, now you can. Just keep in mind if you get arrested for dueling your nemesis at Starbucks, that’s on you.
The multitool has had a spot in the hearts of dads everywhere for a while now, and is great to organize your keys. At some point, most guys have been or will be gifted a swiss army knife or leatherman. Dads, uncles, and grandpas love handing them out and man-splaining them, but that’s because they’re great to have in a pinch.
The only problem is, now that we’re carrying mini-computers everywhere (i.e., smartphones), our pockets are more stuffed than ever. Between our keys, oversized phones, and wallets (unless you have a slim card holder), we have precious little hand space left. Especially you ham-handed guys.
This key-shaped multitool saves serious space and has an absurd amount of uses. A bottle opener, dual screwdrivers, wrench, and box opener (on top of a dozen other uses) should have you covered for whatever needs a quick fix. Or a quick smoke because this thing even works as a one-hitter pipe. Seriously.
Material: Zinc Alloy | Colors Available: Gray | Extra features: Badass Car Shape, Flashlight (regular and strobe settings)
Sometimes you want something unique, and that’s where this car key chain comes in. I guarantee you won’t see many of these around. It’s got a flashlight built-in, so it’s not just a pretty face. This way, it can help you find the car while looking like a badass car itself.
If that doesn’t have you convinced, it has two flashlight modes; a regular light and a strobe light. Keep in mind that the strobe light won’t just turn your car into a mini rave, it’s a great help signal in emergencies.
Material: Aluminum Alloy | Colors Available: Black, Brown | Extra features: You Can Legit Climb Mountains (and some other supplies)
If you’re picking up a carabiner to attach to your key ring, why not get a colorful six-pack? This pack of carabiners comes in some great colors, so you’ll always be able to wear a key chain that matches your outfit. The lightweight aluminum alloy will guarantee your pockets won’t be weighed down, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t crazy durable.
It might be made for mountain climbing, but you can stick these things to anything. REI has one of the best selections, so if you’re going to buy mountain climbing gear, you might as well get it from one of the climbing community’s favorite stops.
Material: Zinc Alloy, Stainless Steel Cord | Colors Available: Black | Extra features: Retractable
They don’t always look like the coolest accessory, but plenty of people have been swearing by retractable men’s key chains for years. This particular retractable key chain definitely looks awesome and works just as well.
The belt clip will keep your keys out of your pockets, so you can save a little space. We all know pocket space is a spiritual thing for guys. It’s a great gift, too; with the key chain, Grandpa will have more room for hard candies and clashing change.
Material: Steel Ball Bearing, Paracord | Colors Available: Black | Extra features: Destroys Attackers
The best key chains for self defense are also the most effective weapon you’ve never heard of: monkey fists and gorilla fists. It doesn’t take a lot of force for these savage little paracord creations to crack an attacker’s skull or orbital.
They may not look like much, but if you don’t believe me, check out some Youtube videos. These little badasses will blast right into a watermelon. The steel ball bearing in the middle may seem small, but this gorilla fist packs a serious punch. It doesn’t even take up that much pocket or belt bag space.
Just make sure it’s accessible when you really need it. If you can’t grab it fast in a pinch, it’s basically useless.
Material: Leather | Colors Available: Black | Extra features: Hand Strap
If you’re going to spend a few hundred dollars on the best key chain, why not make double sure people recognize it? This keychain by Balenciaga will definitely be noticed and looking at it, you can tell why. The huge logo embossed on quality Italian leather couldn’t be easier to read. Every time you bust out your key ring, people will take notice.
Balenciaga is one of the most well-known brands in the world, so folks will know you’re all about luxury. If you’ve never dropped jaws with men’s key chains, now’s your chance.
Material: Cotton Cord | Colors Available: Green, Navy | Extra features: Reminds you to lead with kindness
Whether this is a gift or something for yourself this is the best key chain with mindfulness in mind. The simple design makes it easy to spot your keys but not flashy enough there’s a neon sign over your keys.
Made of cotton cord with the promise of kindness, this key chain has the possibility of becoming a staple item in your life.
Material: leather, brass | Colors Available: brown | Extra features: long strap you can put around your wrist
Constantly scrambling around your bag for your keys? Maybe it’s time to find something to alleviate your fumbling. And while it can certainly be many things, why not find essentially a really long string? This one is great because it’s simple and effective, it won’t add much weight to your keys and it’s minimalistic enough that just about anyone can use it without much fuss.
What To Look For When Buying The Best Key Chain For Men
Material
Material is super important in a keychain purchase. You’re going to be touching it every time you grab your keys, so don’t buy a material you hate. Harder metal will always be better for things like mini multitools and knives, as well as key chains shaped like cars or puzzle pieces (you read the guide already, so you know what I mean).
Leather is great for looking distinguished and elegant. It’s always been good for that. It’s pleasing to touch too. If you want to be seen as a slick and dapper man, leather might be the way to go.
Plastics always work too, but if you need something seriously durable it’s usually better to get it with a metal or metal alloy. That said, plenty of plastics are hard enough to be usable.
Portability
Portability is obviously extremely important in a keychain purchase (unless you’re sporting a belt bag). If you’re sticking these key chains in your pocket, you should probably go with something smaller, so you don’t have chipmunk cheek pockets. Nobody likes that.
Features
Make sure you pay attention to the features of these key chains. Some of the best men’s key chains are there for good looks alone. Others provide actual, real-world uses. Not that looking hot isn’t a use.
There are keychains that will skull-crack an attacker, open a bottle in style, or fix a bike. There are even key chains that will help you climb a damn mountain. That’s about as useful as it gets.
The best key chain for men overall is Roderer’s smoking hot Award Circular Italian leather key chain. Fashionistas will fawn over Roderer’s flashy metallic crown logo that adorns the middle. The leather will also last a millennia (maybe).
If you want a key chain that will look hot in any situation and is versatile enough to look great with any outfit, Roderer is a good place to start.
FAQ
The terms are usually interchangeable, but technically they’re different parts of a whole. The key ring is the actual metal ring you attach keys and key chains to. Key chains are the actual chain and whatever is connected to it (i.e., the items we went over in this guide.
The easiest answer is keys. Definitely keep keys on a key chain. Other than that, attach whatever you want to it. Key chains always add personality to a set of keys, so don’t be afraid to express yourself to the fullest.
Self defense keychains might not be guaranteed to save your life, but it’s good to have any weapon you can in a bad situation. What a self-defense key chain includes is different; some have sharp points you can punch with, and some you can swing and bludgeon an attacker.
If you want, you can even buy straight up pepper-spray on a keychain (though I didn’t recommend it since it’s too easy to blast yourself along with the attacker). Then there are things like monkey fists you can bludgeon an attacker with.
Like I said, these keychains won’t stop a bullet or teach you to box, but when things get dangerous you need all the help you can get.
If you’d told a weather-beaten, American scaffolder from the 1920s that in 100 years time he’d be a style icon to men of the future, he’d probably have spat his chewing tobacco out at you in disbelief. Yet here we are, writing about his coat.
The chore coat (also referred to as a chore jacket) perfectly encapsulates everything that makes workwear great: it’s functional, comfortable and rugged. Plus, like denim jeans or the best men’s boots, the people who designed it weren’t concerned about whether it became the next runway phenomenon or not, so you’ll still be able to pull it out of the wardrobe in 20 years without cringing so hard you give yourself a hernia.
As a heritage workwear staple, this utilitarian classic ticks all the boxes. But what makes it different from any old grease-stained coat hanging up in the workshop?
What Is A Chore Coat?
If its name hadn’t already given the game away, the chore jacket was designed to be worn while carrying out, well, chores.
A thick construction and large patch pockets made it a firm favourite among labourers, mechanics, farmers and basically anyone whose job meant their clothes needed to withstand a hammering – no doubt literally, in some cases.
“For functionality purposes, the chore coat usually comes with two large front pockets located at the bottom of the jacket and also two large breast pockets,” explains Rudy Budhdeo, owner of renowned London workwear and denim shop Son Of A Stag. “It normally had a large collar that could be flipped up to protect the wearer from the elements.”
Traditionally, chore jackets were deliberately oversized to allow for freedom of movement and also for alterations to be made. However, these days they tend to be made more fitted, as the manufacturers are well aware that men are more likely to be using them to nip to Starbucks for a triple, venti, soy, no foam latte than for doing sheet metal work in the pouring rain.
The History Of The Chore Coat
The chore coat’s legacy stretches back well over a century, to a time when Starbucks weren’t even a thing. But as difficult as that may be to picture, it’s what made the chore jacket the functional favourite it is today.
1917 marked the first print advertisement for what American workwear label Carhartt then referred to as the ‘Engineer Sack Coat’. Admittedly, the name’s not quite as snappy, but it did boast a lot of the same features as today’s chore coats, paving the way for future greatness. Think patch pockets, a classic collar and a construction that early ads aptly described as having ‘substantial weight’.
Carhartt’s ‘Engineer Sack Coat’, from a catalogue circa 1925
“The preferred fabrics for construction were either denim or heavy duck canvas so that they would be more durable but also protect the wearer from the elements,” says Budhdeo.
This sturdy build made the coats a hit with workers and as the years progressed, features such as blanket linings and bi-swing shoulders for added manoeuvrability began to make appearances.
It wasn’t long before the general public got wise to the fact that this style of outerwear worked nicely as a casual top layer, thanks to its comfort construction, versatility and timeless looks. Designers then got hold of the silhouette and we began to see slimmer fits, a reduction in the number of pockets, smaller collars and all other sorts of fluctuating details.
Yet no matter how many changes, the chore jacket’s foundation remains the same.
How To Style A Chore Jacket
Adding a dash of heritage and personality to your outfit needn’t be a chore when you’ve got one of these at your disposal. For some expert tips on how to make your jacket work for you, we spoke to personal stylist Daniel Johnson to glean his pearls of workwear wisdom.
Smart Casual
Unless you’re a real fashion free spirit, chances are you wouldn’t pair a blazer with a pair of carpenter jeans, so wearing your chore jacket as part of a smart casual ensemble may seem a little counterintuitive. But it can be done, and done right, it looks great.
Just imagine your chore jacket as an unstructured blazer and that will give you a pretty solid starting point to build your look around.
“Flannel trousers and white sneakers would work great here,” says Johnson. “I’d avoid jeans to keep some level of formality and just keep it simple with a crew neck jumper and a T-shirt underneath. A nice mix of formal and casual.”
Casual
It may have been built with practical applications in mind, but the style makes for a top-notch casual jacket. The chore coat was made to be worn with jeans and when you pop one on with a pair you can tell. To take things to the next level style-wise, Johnson suggests experimenting with texture such as twill, denim or wool.
“Always use a texture in the coat rather than something flat, otherwise the look can just blend into the background,” he says. “I’d style this with jeans or twill chinos and sneakers.” Simple.
The Best Chore Jackets You Can Buy Right Now
Carhartt
You can’t talk about workwear without mentioning Carhartt. The US jacket brand is one of the oldest names in the game and has built a reputation for itself as one of the premier purveyors of rugged, utilitarian garments.
The chore coat has one of the longest legacies of any of Carhartt’s products and through its streetwear-infused Work In Progress (WIP) line, the brand has brought it fully up to date without sacrificing any of its authentic charms.
Levi’s has been kitting men – working and otherwise – out with durable denim for well over 150 years, which is a pretty exemplary run by anyone’s standards. But it’s not just jeans that the American heritage brand crafts to perfection, its chore jackets aren’t half bad either.
Boasting the same rugged build quality that its denim has become famous for, a chore coat from Levi’s makes for a welcome addition to the wardrobe of any self-respecting workwear addict.
Spanish high-street chain Mango may be named after a fruit, but its uncluttered, timeless menswear collection doesn’t feature any bad apples. Free from slogans and obnoxious branding, Mango Man’s refined offerings are some of the most simple and stylish to be found.
In an airy linen blend, this earthy worker jacket may not be much good for laying railroad sleepers in torrential rain, but it will certainly look the business with a pair of chino shorts and some canvas trainers.
A fetishisation of work clobber in Japanese menswear is certainly nothing new, but it’s something that laid-back Nippon brand orSlow has managed to build an identity around. Set up by a compulsive clothes hoarder with a taste for vintage, orSlow’s clothing takes its cues from the military, industry and all things Americana.
This version might would probably not have worked for yesterday’s workshops, but for turning heads on the street, it’s a real grafter.
While it’s definitely not a workwear brand by any stretch of the imagination, what Jean Touitou’s Parisian label does do incredibly well is simplicity and refinement. A.P.C. is great at putting its own signature twist on the classics and its chore jackets are no different.
This denim number is a contemporary take on a workaday classic, with worn Japanese denim, in-seam pockets and unpicked stitch detailing.
Since its humble beginnings in 1922, Dickies has prided itself on the build quality and toughness of its products – kitting out workers all around the globe with sturdy gear that can stand up to a thrashing.
Woven from a heavy-duty cotton canvas, the Brookview Jacket is a true workwear classic and modern menswear essential all rolled into one.
After spending 10 years at Paul Smith and a further five at Maharishi, David Keyte made the decision to start his own clothing line. Inspired by the idea of creating well-made, easy-to-wear clothes for men and eschewing trends in favour of timeless style, he set up Universal Works.
The chore jacket – or Baker’s Jacket as UW calls it – has long been one of the label’s signature pieces. In an orange, Scottish wax cotton, this vibrant option is a subtle nod to road worker styles, fortunately without the glow-in-the-dark patches.
Originally established to cater for prospectors passing through the northwestern states during the Klondike Gold Rush, Filson has been churning out some of the finest outdoor gear around since 1897.
With a grand total of nine pockets and woven from naturally water-repellent virgin wool, the Mackinaw Cruiser jacket from this heritage US label is the ultimate in durable style.
Cult UK label Albam has been bubbling away under the surface since 2006. Working with the UK’s best craftsmen and factories, the London-born brand produces some of the slickest, stripped-back and functional clothes around.
This breezy, cool jacket in ecru is crafted from 100 per cent cotton, making it perfect as a stylish, transitional layer.
If you’re recruiting up-to-the-minute styles at price points that won’t leave you eating instant noodles for the remainder of the month, then independent e-tailer The Idle Man should be your first port of call. With an ever-changing range, spanning everything from trend-led, seasonal pieces to bona fide wardrobe essentials, this online retail mecca is the perfect place to get yourself equipped.
Look out for its signature chore jackets with classic detailing at a fraction of the price of the competition.
If you like making extravagant purchases but aren’t a fan of the guilt that goes with them then Apolis might be right up your street. The American brand prides itself on going above and beyond to meet the highest possible standards in terms of social and environmental responsibility, working with traders and suppliers to ensure everything they use is fairly sourced and of the highest quality.
It just so happens they make some pretty nice chore coats too. In fact, they’re one of the brand’s key items. Woven in California from Italian cotton wool and then overdyed with indigo, Apolis’ chore jackets will behave like a pair of raw denim jeans, moulding to the wearer and fading at points of wear for the ultimate lived-in look.
Hello, darling readers! If you’ve ever caught a glimpse of my daily ensembles, you know I live for a bit of drama and luxury in my wardrobe. Today, let’s dive into a style narrative that’s close to my heart — the timeless allure of chequered jackets and the rugged charm of Timberland boots. Together, these two create a fashion symphony that resonates with my love for the opulent yet practical.
A Match Made in Style Heaven
Picture this: a crisp morning in Umbria, the air tinged with the promise of espresso and adventure. What’s a girl to do but reach for her faithful chequered jacket? Now, not just any plaid will do for this discerning fashionista! We’re talking rich, bold checks that scream confidence and class — think classic Burberry-esque tones that can make even a simple coffee run feel like a strut down the runway.
And the perfect partner for this audacious outerwear? None other than a pair of robust Timberland boots. Oh, those delightful mustard gems! They’re not just for construction sites, honey. These boots bring a dash of grit to any outfit, making them my go-to for adding a touch of unexpected edge.
Styling Chequered Jackets
Let’s talk about styling these checkered beauties. It’s all about balance and bravado. For a day out with the girls, I pair my chequered jacket with a silky, flowing blouse — perhaps something in a daring red or a cheeky polka dot. Add a pair of high-waisted, dark jeans to keep things grounded, and voilà! You’re ready to conquer the town with both grace and gusto.
For those chillier days, layering is key. A turtleneck sweater under a chequered jacket not only keeps you cozy but also elevates your look to that oh-so-coveted realm of ‘effortlessly chic.’ And when I’m feeling particularly bold, I throw on a beret — because why not tip a nod to the French icons who know a thing or two about statement dressing?
Timberland Boots: Not Just for Hiking
Moving on to our rugged friends — the Timberland boots. These boots are a testament to durability and style. But how does a lover of all things luxe make them work? Simple: by breaking all the rules. Pair them with a delicate lace dress or a sleek midi skirt to create a juxtaposition that’s both eye-catching and enviable.
And who says Timberlands are only for neutral palettes? Throw them on with vibrant tights or a splashy scarf. Remember, fashion is about fun, and nothing says fun like a pop of color peeking out from under a chequered hem.
Mix and Match Magic
The real magic happens when these two pieces come together. A chequered jacket and Timberland boots are like the fashion world’s power couple. They complement each other’s strengths and bring out the best in each ensemble. For an autumn festival, I pair my jacket and boots with a cozy cable-knit sweater and a vintage leather backpack. It’s practical, stylish, and oh-so-me!
And let’s not forget accessories. A bold, oversized watch and some chunky gold earrings can elevate this combo from countryside chic to city sleek in an instant. It’s all about mixing textures and styles to create a look that’s uniquely yours.
Living the Luxe Life, One Check at a Time
So, my dear fashion-forward friends, as we wrap up this style saga, remember that dressing well is not just about following trends. It’s about making them your own. A chequered jacket and Timberland boots might seem like humble pieces, but with the right styling, they can open doors to a world of luxury, charm, and confidence.
Whether you’re sipping espresso in a quaint Italian café or tackling your daily urban adventures, these style staples are your secret weapons. Embrace them, play with them, and wear them like the badge of honor they are in the world of high fashion and everyday fabulousness.
Stay chic, stay bold, and most importantly, stay uniquely you. Until next time, keep turning heads and breaking hearts, the stylish way!
A mascara that gives plenty of volume, length and keeps my lashes curled. When it was new, it wasn’t that impressive and it still isn’t as fantastic as the regular version (that one is truly impressive), but it gives quite a lot of volume with one coat, which is rare for a waterproof formula.
I’ve been giving this another go and I’ve been wearing it a lot this month. I did not like it much when I bought it and just put it in a drawer, but recently I decided to try to make it work, so it doesn’t end up forgotten. It’s a difficult blush to apply. Fingers don’t’ work well, as blush moves too much on the skin, but you also have to be careful with a brush too to avoid it looking uneven. I try to coat the brush as evenly as I can and with a thin coat for product, so I can apply it gradually. That way I get a seamlessly blended peachy-pink shade flush with some glow. It’s one of those types of warm pinky shades that suit most skin tones. Though this is very metallic, the glow isn’t intense on me because I have to be careful with the amount, as this is very pigmented, but the glow is noticeable. It lasts well on my skin and it’s still on at the end of the day.
Such a gorgeous colour. It’s the perfect my-lips-but-better shade and it’s almost fully opaque. Formula is plush and moisturising, and while it doesn’t last as long as their Glossin Glow formula, it can hang on well too. It tingles slightly
BEAUTY OF JOSEON Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal
I’ve been using this for about a month and I quite like it. I got it as a replacement for Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 10 that I waited to come back in stock for months. I can’t report about results except that my skin feels nice, but the ingredients list is great. It has 2% liposome retinal (0.02% active), so it’s weaker than Geek & Gorgeous with 0.1%, but my skin likes it and it’s available in my local drugstore. It also has ginseng extract (10%), niacinamide, adenosine, hyaluronic acid, cholesterol, ceramides, a peptide and a couple of oils/butters. Texture is a light lotion, but it feels like a moisturiser on the skin. It has a typical gingseng scent, like Sulwhasoo products. There was no irritations or dryness at this formula. It’s an eye cream, but there is 30 ml of product, so like most retinol/retinal products.
ORIFLAME Novage+ Proceuticals Ultra Light UV-Age Day Shield SPF 50
A very pleasant SPF. It doesn’t feel greasy and I can easily apply 2-3 fingers worth of product. It’s has some shine at the start, but it quite quickly settles to a matte/invisible one on my (dry) skin. It has no scent and it doesn’t irritate my eyes.
LA ROCHE POSAY Lipikar Baume AP+M
First I was impressed by Cerave’s Moisturising Cream and now I enjoy using this too. I like thick, rich formulas and this is precisely such a moisturiser. It takes longer to absorb than Cerave, in fact this sits on the skin for a while, forming a sort of a protective layer, so my skin feels nicely nourished in the morning. I’m particularly happy about the pump because it makes it all so easy, especially when I want to use it as a hand cream (though for that I still prefer Cerave’s fast absorbing Moisturising Cream during the day). I like this as a face moisturiser as well. It is unscented, it contains thermal spring water from La Roche-Posay, Niacinamide, 8% Glycerin and 20% Shea Butter that nourish and restore the skin barrier, while AP+M technology in a formula that helps rebalance the microbiome. It’s designed for very dry, atopic, itchy skin and for those with allergies.
WISHLIST AND WHAT’S NEW
BOURJOIS Healthy Mix Serum Roll-on Concealer 49 Ivory – I’m very excited about this. I’ve been a fan of Healthy Mix Formula for years and Bourjois concealers were some of my favourites in the past until they discontinued them (Radiance Reveal & 123 Perfect CC). Hopefully this formula looks as natural and nice as the foundation and that shade 49 is actually light enough for me. It’s already on DM’s website, but my local DM didn’t have it when I went to look for it.
L’OREAL Elvital Glycolic Glosss 5 Minute Lamination Rinse-off – since I left my natural hair grow out, my (natural) hair colour looks so unusually flat and without shine. It could be the hard water, as I often forget the acid rinse, though I have been using hair oil as a pre-wash regularly, which should protect the hair. I haven’t seen this in the shops yet, though there are Slovene ads, which is odd. I was researching for best hair gloss products and this was mentioned as the cheapest. I’ll give this a go when I try it and hopefully it will add some much needed shine to my hair.
MOROCCANOIL Brumes du Maroc Fragranc Mist for hair and body – I ran out of Aussie’s Scent-sational hair perfume which was brilliant and much to my dismay I discovered it has been removed from the shelves of DM and just about everywhere appart from Amazon. I bought a replacement from Balea, which smells really great, but it doesn’t last all day like Aussie. I’d like to give this one a try if it’s strong enough. It was mentioned as one of the best when I was searching for replacements online.
NIVEA SUN Derma Skin Clean with Niacinamide – I like Nivea’s face sunscreens and I always have one in stock. This is one of the new ones and it looks likeable. It’s meant for unclear skin and has niacinamide.
MOROCCANOIL Frizz Control Conditioner – a new line by Moroccanoil that both replaces the Smooth line and completes the Frizz Control line. Moroccanoil oil products are by far the best to combat frizz on my hair. I love their Mask, Frizz Shield, Lotion and the Blow-Dry Concentrate. I’ll try this conditioner too – it’s probably very similar to the Smooth one anyway and that one was great.
BALEA Beauty Expert UV-Protection Fluid SPF 50 – Sun Dance hasn’t made the best SPF formulas in the last years when it comes to lightness, which is odd considering many years ago they had lovely lightweight formulas. We’ll see if DM managed to create a light, liquid formula in the Beauty Expert line. It’s without alcohol, which is nice to see. It’s already on DM’s website, but my local DM didn’t have it when I went to look for it. Reviews are mostly positive.
BALEA Beauty Expert Vitamin C Eye Booster – I won’t get this, but I like the ingredients. It has niacinamide, 2% of vitamin C in a stable ascorbyl glucoside form, caffeine and peptides. Reviews so far praise it.
PUPA Vamp! Fluid Eyeshadow – I haven’t seen these yet, but the shades look wearable. I generally prefer stick eyeshadows, but this might be nice.
SCHAEBENS Peeling Fussmaske – one of those acidic masks that make the dead skin peel off in a super ugly way, but then your feet look nice. It’s nice to see another brand came out with this. These usually don’t work well on me though, as my skin is too thick.
SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL OSiS+ Sparkler Shine Spray – a shine spray that I found on a few best of lists.
COLOR WOW Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray – another shine spray I found on the best of list, but this one is very expensive.
Abbott earned a groundbreaking FDA approval on Monday for its dissolving stent designed to unclog arteries below the knee.
The device, called the Esprit BTK System, is meant to treat patients who have chronic limb-threatening ischemia below the knee. This condition is characterized by insufficient blood flow to the lower extremities, which leads to persistent pain, ulcers and tissue necrosis — with a significant risk of limb amputation if left untreated
Chronic limb-threatening ischemia below the knee may be the most severe form of peripheral artery disease, said Jennifer Jones-McMeans, divisional vice president of global clinical affairs at Abbott’s vascular business.
“This is really a landmark moment,” she said in an interview. “We’re looking at the first dissolving stent to treat below-the-knee arterial disease. And really, when you look at this severe form of upper artery disease, it’s considered kind of the terminal end of this disease — meaning that these patients have very limited options and their lifespan is going to be impacted.”
About 20 million people in the U.S. live with peripheral artery disease, and only about 10% of them are diagnosed with this severe form, Jones-McMeans noted.
Until Monday, the FDA had never approved a stent or drug-coated balloon to help arteries stay open below the knee. The common standard of care for patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia typically involves endovascular interventions, such as angioplasty and stenting, to restore blood flow in the affected arteries.
Abbott developed a dissolvable device that keeps arteries open, as well as delivers a drug — Everolimus — to support vessel healing. The device, which is made of a material similar to dissolvable stitches, is implanted using a catheter during a minimally invasive procedure.
Abbott’s device is designed to provide support for about three years. After that point, the artery should be able to remain open on its own and the device dissolves, Jones-McMeans explained.
She added that by opening blood flow below the knee, the device can help wounds heal better, as well as prevent the development of new wounds. Patients face the “devastating risk” of amputation when a wound can’t heal properly, she pointed out.
“[The device] will be the first of its kind approved in the United States to treat this devastating condition — where currently, patients go in and have a plain balloon angioplasty that is extremely limiting, with which the patient is really kind of on a pathway to have retreatment after the treatment,” Jones-McMeans said.
Abbott’s newly approved device gives providers and patients a new tool that will keep patients healthier for longer, she declared.
A primary immunodeficiency whose rarity means it can go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed in a patient for years now has its first drug. The FDA has approved a once-daily therapy that addresses the underlying genetic problem driving the inherited disorder, known as WHIM syndrome.
The regulatory decision announced Monday for the X4 Pharmaceuticals drug covers WHIM patients age 12 and older. The daily capsule, known in development as mavorixafor, will be commercialized under the brand name Xolremdi (pronounced “zohl-REM-dee”).
The name WHIM is an acronym for warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections, and myelokathexis, which are the four common clinical presentations of the disease. But the disease is not limited to those symptoms and it presents differently from one patient to another. There is no standard of care for WHIM, which is treated with various therapies that address its symptoms and frequent infections.
“What’s exciting about this approval is for the first time, WHIM patients and their physicians have a treatment that targets the underlying cause of the disease,” Paula Ragan, CEO of Boston-based X4, said during a Monday conference call.
There are more than 400 types of primary immunodeficiency, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. WHIM can confuse patients and clinicians, who either mistake the disease for one of those immunodeficiencies or chalk up the symptoms to children just getting a lot of infections—which many kids do, said Dr. Teresa Tarrant, a professor of rheumatology and immunology at the Duke University School of Medicine and a principal investigator in the X4 drug’s pivotal study. WHIM is suspected when the severity and frequency of infections goes above and beyond what’s typical in most kids, she said in an interview.
WHIM can be thought of as a traffic problem for immune cells. In some immunodeficiencies, the body doesn’t make enough immune cells or the immune cells it makes don’t function properly. In WHIM, functioning immune cells are produced by the bone marrow but they cannot get into circulation to fight pathogens. Myelokathexis, the “M” in WHIM, is the retention of immune cells in the bone marrow. WHIM stems from a rare mutation in the CXCR4 gene, which encodes a chemokine receptor, a protein involved in regulating the movement of immune cells in the body.
The first genetic mutation that leads to WHIM was identified in 2003. Scientific research, including work from X4, has since identified other mutations that lead to the disease. Defective CXCR4 protein keeps the signaling of the CXCR4 pathway in a hyperactive state, which in turn keeps immune cells trapped in the bone marrow, Tarrant said. She likens this pathway to an on-off switch for getting cells out of the bone marrow. X4’s drug is a small molecule designed to selectively target and block the CXCR4 cell receptor.
“In WHIM, many patients have a problem with the off (switch), so the signaling is on all the time,” Tarrant said. “It’s hyperactive. This drug dampens down the hyperactive signaling.”
X4 evaluated mavorixafor in a placebo-controlled Phase 3 clinical trial that enrolled 31 patients with WHIM syndrome. The main goal of the 52-week study was to show a statistically significant increase in time, measured in hours, that neutrophil counts were above a specified threshold. Results showed that the trial met this goal as well as a key secondary endpoint measuring lymphocyte counts. Additional results showed the X4 drug led to statistically significant reductions in annualized infection rates and clinically meaningful reductions in the severity and duration of infections. The drug was well tolerated by study participants.
A rare disease is typically defined as one that affects 200,000 or fewer patients in the U.S. WHIM is ultra rare, affecting about 1,000 people in the U.S., according to X4’s market research. The median age of diagnosis is 5.5 years old. But some patients can go much longer before finding out what’s wrong. Tarrant said her first clinical encounter with WHIM was someone whose disease went undiagnosed until the patient reached the late 30s. While some primary immunodeficiencies can be detected with newborn screening, WHIM is not one of them. These tests only pick up children with extremely low levels of immune cells, Tarrant explained. The low levels in WHIM can be seen in bloodwork. But children typically don’t get a lot of blood draws, she said.
While WHIM can be diagnosed with a genetic test that confirms the CXCR4 mutation, Chief Commercial Officer Mark Baldry noted that the FDA decision does not require it. The label of Xolremdi covers patients who have a clinical diagnosis of WHIM. Xolremdi, available in 100 mg capsules, is dosed according to a patient’s weight. Patients weighing 50 kg (about 110 pounds) or more are directed to take 400 mg once daily. For these patients, the drug’s annual wholesale price is $496,400. Those weighing less than 50 kg will take a 300 mg dose of Xolremdi once daily, which carries a $372,300 annual price. Based on clinical trial experience and company research, X4 estimates that 90% of WHIM patients will require the higher dose. Baldry said Xolremdi is available now, though he added it could take six months to a year before payers start covering it.
Mavorixafor was licensed from Genzyme, a Sanofi subsidiary. With the molecule’s approval, X4 now owes a $7 million milestone payment, plus royalties from product sales, Chief Financial Officer Adam Mostafa said. The company is not providing any sales guidance for the drug at this time. The approval comes with a priority review voucher, which X4 may apply toward faster regulatory review of different rare disease drug in the future. But companies typically monetize these vouchers, selling them at prices topping $100 million. Mostafa said X4 plans to sell its voucher, and Sanofi-Genzyme is not owed any of the proceeds from that sale.
X4 is also evaluating mavorixafor as a treatment for chronic neutropenia. The company expects to begin a Phase 3 study in this indication by the end of June, according to an investor presentation. The pipeline includes two additional CXCR4-targeting drugs. X4P-003 is a next-generation drug that X4 says has enhanced properties and potential applications in other diseases associated with the CXCR4 receptor. Meanwhile, X4P-002 offers the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier to reach that target. Both molecules are in preclinical development.
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