METRO Friday, December 18, 2009 D Edited by Vicki-Marie Cossar features@metroireland.ie Style Counsel Time to face up to the truth M ens style bible GQ has announced the winners of its second annual Grooming Awards. Given that my housemate and I tend to go wild in the aisles of pound stores when it comes to stocking the bathroom cabinet, the chance to test some of the best in show for a flawless face proved too tempting to turn down. Best moisturiser Biotherm Homme Aquapower Absolute Gel, 28 (100ml). www.mankind.co.uk After dispelling thoughts this might be a tie-in with a popular vodka brand, we found this non-greasy, non- sticky moisturising gel really impressed. The cooling sensation was soothing, the matt finish welcoming and the hydration really will last all day even passing the office party test. Star rating: HHHHH Best cleanser Lab Series Mild Foaming Face Wash, 16.50 (100ml). www.mankind.co.uk Its tempting to treat city- worn skin with a Brillo pad. But the key is being sensitive. Gentle but tough, this is the Patrick Swayze of cleansers and, within days, there was a marked difference in how soft, smooth and clear my skin was. Star rating: HHHHI Best eye cream Perricone MD High Potency Eye Lift, 84.50 (15ml). www.salonskincare.co.uk Computer screens can create a morning-after appearance akin to WWE star The Undertaker. Ive always felt eye creams were a gimmick until this one really did manage to shift the dark rings. The sturdy glass bottle stops spillages in your bag but the price will make you explode. Star rating: HHHII Best shave gel Dermalogica Invigorating Shave Gel, 15.40(180ml). www.jerseybeauty company.co.uk I dont wet shave. My housemate does but enthusiasm isnt his strong point. So I was genuinely shocked by the news he was changing from his old brand to Dermalogicas Menthol cool gel. Hes even started using terms such as encourages glide. Star rating: HHHHH Best shave balm Dermalogica Post- Shave Balm, 26.25 (50ml). www.beauty expert.co.uk My housemate told me his biggest problem with wet shaves is irritation to his neck so Dermalogica have scored a massive double in GQs Best In Shaving section with this super formula that calmed his redness, stopped ingrowing hairs and moisturised. Star rating: HHHHI Mens toiletries: The GQ Grooming Awards provide ideas for the perfect stocking filler or, for product snobs, one hefty New Year debt by JAMES DAy index.html2.html3.html4.html5.html6.html7.html8.html9.html10.html11.html12.html13.html14.html15.html16.html17.html18.html19.html20.html21.html22.html23.html