Latest news with #KaiBurkhardt
CNN
23-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
10 grooming products our editors rely on to help them look their best, starting at $10
Over the years, CNN Underscored editors have tested plenty of grooming products, whether it was for work or because we needed something for our own routines. If you're looking to amp up your men's grooming arsenal, you're in luck, because we're rounding up our top picks. From a beard trimmer that one of our editors has had for years to the volumizing hair powder our electronics writer loves, here are 10 grooming products our editors stand by. Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium-Ion Cordless Beard Trimmer I've had this beard trimmer for about four years now, and I use it nearly every week. I love its ergonomic feel, and it's great at both trimming bulk in my beard and sharpening lines on my jaw. When we tested the best beard trimmers, it was our performance pick, and after years of additional testing, I can still see why. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Read our review Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 I love my Philips OneBlade. I have used this for years, and it still performs great. The 360 blade is great for getting all edges of my face, and the attachable comb is great for getting the perfect length. I have used tons of other razors in the past and somehow always manage to nick or accidentally cut myself, but with this razor, that has never been an issue. I also find that the battery life on this razor lasts a while, so I don't need to charge it very often. This is a major plus, especially when I'm traveling and need to touch up my facial hair but forget the charger. — Tyler Holender, social strategist Kevin Murphy Powder Puff Volumizing Powder The only way my hair ever looks as decent as it does is thanks to three things: my fantastic barber, Alexia Saras, and the two products I use whenever I need to impress. When it's time to get fancy, I sprinkle in a very light amount of Australian hair care brand Kevin Murphy's Powder Puff Volumizing Powder, which basically helps my hair come to life. Not to wax too poetic, but I always feel like this stuff is breathing a tiny gust of air into my hair. Then I put a little bit of that same brand's Rough Rider paste into my hair to lock that volume in. I've used the paste for a lot longer than the powder and have always loved how it keeps my hair looking matte and clean. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Dollar Shave Club Shave Butter, 2-Pack I didn't really care about what shaving cream I used until I tried Dollar Shave Club's Shave Butter. It becomes translucent when you rub it on your skin, so you can actually see where you're shaving. Plus, I've noticed no difference when it comes to smoothness from traditional shaving creams. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pet editor Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 9000 21-Piece All-in-One Trimmer The use I've gotten out of this all-in-one trimmer is terrific for under $100. Its main function is helping me maintain my beard when I rock one, but I've also used its attachments to shave my face, trim nose hairs and even pull off a full buzz cut. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer Gillette Fusion5 Power Razor for Men I've been a proud bald guy for five years and counting, and have relied on this cheap Gillette razor to keep my head as smooth as a baby's for almost that entire time. Paired with a good shave gel, the Gillette Fusion5 glides softly and comfortably around my dome; I can probably count on one hand the rare occasions where I accidentally nicked myself. Sure, I have to pick up blade refills every few months, but that's still cheaper than what I was paying my barber to cut what was left of my hair — and certainly a less costly investment than those scary-looking dome shavers I always see ads for. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer This was the daily moisturizer that got me serious about skin care, and I still haven't found anything better. It doesn't leave a sticky or heavy feeling after it's applied, and it doubles as a great daily sunscreen. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer Bevel Safety Razor Most of the time I quickly shave my neck with my Wahl beard trimmer, but if I want to get a close, quality shave, I always reach for my Bevel Safety Razor. I love how simple its design is, how easy it is to clean and how close a shave I can get. Plus, replacement blades are ridiculously cheap, especially compared to more popular three- or five-blade replacements. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Leaf Shave Thorn Single-Edge Razor There are pros and cons to shaving with a single-edge razor, and so far, Leaf has done the best job at convincing me it's a superior alternative to multi-blade cartridges. The angled head lightens the learning curve for new users. If you're looking to save money over the long haul with a sustainable shave, Leaf is worth a look. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer SinkShroom Ultra Bathroom Sink Strainer I'm always shocked at just how much hair comes off my face when I trim my beard, and this little gadget helps me keep all that facial hair out of my drains. I keep it in my sink at all times, and it makes cleanup after shaving that much easier. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor What grooming products should men have? What grooming products should men have? Everyone's grooming routine is different, so the products in one man's routine may look completely different from what's in anothers. Some common grooming products include razors, beard oils, trimmers and aftershave. What is a proper grooming routine for men? What is a proper grooming routine for men? A solid skin care routine is the foundation for any beauty or grooming routine. If you're someone who also likes to shave, Jake Murphy, a senior barber and manager at Ruffians Covent Garden, said in our guide to the cleanest shave that properly prepping your skin by cleansing it thoroughly should be the first step in the shaving process. The experts in that article then recommend following up with a moisturizer or an aftershave. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis rounded up some of the team's favorite grooming products.
CNN
23-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- CNN
10 grooming products our editors rely on to help them look their best, starting at $10
Over the years, CNN Underscored editors have tested plenty of grooming products, whether it was for work or because we needed something for our own routines. If you're looking to amp up your men's grooming arsenal, you're in luck, because we're rounding up our top picks. From a beard trimmer that one of our editors has had for years to the volumizing hair powder our electronics writer loves, here are 10 grooming products our editors stand by. Wahl Stainless Steel Lithium-Ion Cordless Beard Trimmer I've had this beard trimmer for about four years now, and I use it nearly every week. I love its ergonomic feel, and it's great at both trimming bulk in my beard and sharpening lines on my jaw. When we tested the best beard trimmers, it was our performance pick, and after years of additional testing, I can still see why. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Read our review Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 I love my Philips OneBlade. I have used this for years, and it still performs great. The 360 blade is great for getting all edges of my face, and the attachable comb is great for getting the perfect length. I have used tons of other razors in the past and somehow always manage to nick or accidentally cut myself, but with this razor, that has never been an issue. I also find that the battery life on this razor lasts a while, so I don't need to charge it very often. This is a major plus, especially when I'm traveling and need to touch up my facial hair but forget the charger. — Tyler Holender, social strategist Kevin Murphy Powder Puff Volumizing Powder The only way my hair ever looks as decent as it does is thanks to three things: my fantastic barber, Alexia Saras, and the two products I use whenever I need to impress. When it's time to get fancy, I sprinkle in a very light amount of Australian hair care brand Kevin Murphy's Powder Puff Volumizing Powder, which basically helps my hair come to life. Not to wax too poetic, but I always feel like this stuff is breathing a tiny gust of air into my hair. Then I put a little bit of that same brand's Rough Rider paste into my hair to lock that volume in. I've used the paste for a lot longer than the powder and have always loved how it keeps my hair looking matte and clean. — Henry T. Casey, electronics writer Dollar Shave Club Shave Butter, 2-Pack I didn't really care about what shaving cream I used until I tried Dollar Shave Club's Shave Butter. It becomes translucent when you rub it on your skin, so you can actually see where you're shaving. Plus, I've noticed no difference when it comes to smoothness from traditional shaving creams. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pet editor Philips Norelco Multigroom Series 9000 21-Piece All-in-One Trimmer The use I've gotten out of this all-in-one trimmer is terrific for under $100. Its main function is helping me maintain my beard when I rock one, but I've also used its attachments to shave my face, trim nose hairs and even pull off a full buzz cut. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer Gillette Fusion5 Power Razor for Men I've been a proud bald guy for five years and counting, and have relied on this cheap Gillette razor to keep my head as smooth as a baby's for almost that entire time. Paired with a good shave gel, the Gillette Fusion5 glides softly and comfortably around my dome; I can probably count on one hand the rare occasions where I accidentally nicked myself. Sure, I have to pick up blade refills every few months, but that's still cheaper than what I was paying my barber to cut what was left of my hair — and certainly a less costly investment than those scary-looking dome shavers I always see ads for. — Mike Andronico, senior tech editor Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer This was the daily moisturizer that got me serious about skin care, and I still haven't found anything better. It doesn't leave a sticky or heavy feeling after it's applied, and it doubles as a great daily sunscreen. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer Bevel Safety Razor Most of the time I quickly shave my neck with my Wahl beard trimmer, but if I want to get a close, quality shave, I always reach for my Bevel Safety Razor. I love how simple its design is, how easy it is to clean and how close a shave I can get. Plus, replacement blades are ridiculously cheap, especially compared to more popular three- or five-blade replacements. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor Leaf Shave Thorn Single-Edge Razor There are pros and cons to shaving with a single-edge razor, and so far, Leaf has done the best job at convincing me it's a superior alternative to multi-blade cartridges. The angled head lightens the learning curve for new users. If you're looking to save money over the long haul with a sustainable shave, Leaf is worth a look. — Joe Bloss, associate testing writer SinkShroom Ultra Bathroom Sink Strainer I'm always shocked at just how much hair comes off my face when I trim my beard, and this little gadget helps me keep all that facial hair out of my drains. I keep it in my sink at all times, and it makes cleanup after shaving that much easier. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor What grooming products should men have? What grooming products should men have? Everyone's grooming routine is different, so the products in one man's routine may look completely different from what's in anothers. Some common grooming products include razors, beard oils, trimmers and aftershave. What is a proper grooming routine for men? What is a proper grooming routine for men? A solid skin care routine is the foundation for any beauty or grooming routine. If you're someone who also likes to shave, Jake Murphy, a senior barber and manager at Ruffians Covent Garden, said in our guide to the cleanest shave that properly prepping your skin by cleansing it thoroughly should be the first step in the shaving process. The experts in that article then recommend following up with a moisturizer or an aftershave. CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, associate lifestyle editor Rachel Dennis rounded up some of the team's favorite grooming products.
CNN
26-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CNN
27 little things our editors have bought (or recommend buying) that make them happy
Things that make you happy quick picks: For your next pasta night: Brainstream Al Dente The Singing Floating Pasta Timer Fun home decor: Hikinlichi Magnetic Cloud Key Holder, Pack of 2 A new hobby: Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant Set A cozy splurge: Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Long-Sleeve Pajama Set On days when the world feels like just a little too much to handle, it's important to have some go-to items on hand to make your day brighter — bonus points if it adds to your wellness routine. For our editors, those products range from garden accessories to bite-sized cookies that end the day on a sweet note. Whether you're practicing meditation and want to find a candle to set the mood, or you're looking for something whimsical to brighten your spirits as you head out the door, these are some of our favorite finds that help us practice kindness to ourselves (and others), offer a laugh or create a cozy moment at home. Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp When candle warmer lamps first started trending on social media, I was skeptical. But as soon as I got my hands on one, it was easy to see why people were obsessed. It brings such a cozy ambiance into my bedroom, and it makes my candles smell stronger and last longer. When I work from home, I like to turn it on once I start my workday and set the timer to eight hours so it shuts off when I should be logging off. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, editor, home & gifts TeeTurtle The Original Reversible Penguin Plushmate I keep this reversible penguin in my car 24/7. If I'm stuck in traffic or someone cuts me off, he's mad. But if the sun is out and I'm cruising with the windows down, he's happy. Flipping this little plush to reflect my emotions actually really helps me, since it feels like someone recognizes and empathizes with how I'm feeling, even if I'm just alone in my car. — Kai Burkhardt, editor, outdoors, sustainable living and pets Hikinlichi Magnetic Cloud Key Holder, Pack of 2 Rain isn't traditionally thought to evoke joy, but ever since I bought this cloud-shaped magnetic key hanger, which makes your keys look like raindrops, I'm delighted every time I enter and leave my apartment. — Chelsea Stone, editorial director Brainstream Al Dente The Singing Floating Pasta Timer Instead of setting your oven or iPhone timer, throw this singing pasta man into the pot. It sings four different Italian melodies at the three-, seven-, nine- and 11-minute marks to alert you when your pasta is perfectly al dente. — Elena Matarazzo, associate editor, deals Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera I received this as a gift last year, and it hasn't left my purse. It's been such a huge joy snapping photos and seeing how they turned out once I plug it into my laptop. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters Tate's Bake Shop Tiny Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies, Pack of 3 I recently had to switch to a low-acid diet and finding things to eat has been really tough. A lot of the foods I can eat are very bland, but these gluten-free tiny cookies from Tate's have been my go-to. They are very easy on the stomach and taste amazing. They're the perfect substitute for regular cookies, so you can satisfy your cravings without dealing with all the headaches. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator Tovolo Kitten Shaped Ice Molds, Set of 2 These ice cube molds were an impulse buy when I was walking around Whole Foods feeling kind of down one day, but they're one of my favorite purchases. Each one is shaped like a kitten holding a ball of yarn — how cute! They're the perfect way to make an iced coffee, cocktail or even just an Olipop feel more fun. — Amina Lake Abdelrahman, editor, home & gifts Namii W Slingshot Chickens, 10-Pack Probably the silliest thing you'll find in any of my drawers, but these slingshot chickens are simply hilarious. You stick your finger in the head, pull the tail back and fling them onto the wall where they stick. It's a fun game when friends are over to see who can hit targets, and they always spark laughter whenever I pull them out. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates Uncommon Goods Ceramic Bee Drinking Cups, Set of 5 Making bees happy makes me happy! It's so soothing to watch pollinators buzz around and perch on these cups in the garden. — Lindsey Smith, editor, newsletters Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Long-Sleeve Pajama Set There's just something about a brand-new pajama set covered in tulips that sparks so much joy. The floral print is a perfect nod to springtime, and the stretch-knit fabric is unbelievably lightweight, soft, and cozy! — Stephanie Griffin, director of social Touchland Glow Mist Rosewater Revitalizing Hand Sanitzer We've all needed hand sanitizer at one point, but this Touchland Glow Mist Hand Sanitizer is one I'm always excited to pull out of my bag. The rosewater scent is refreshing, and it makes hand sanitizer feel luxurious. — Gareen Puglia, associate writer, testing Crown & Paw Modern Pet Portrait I have a portrait of one of my dogs Miso hanging on the wall in my living room, and every time I walk in and see it, it sparks joy. It's especially nice because Miso is always asleep in her crate and doesn't care when I come home, so I can at least say hi to her portrait while she gets her much needed beauty sleep. — Kai Burkhardt, editor, outdoors, sustainable living and pets Mellanni Iconic Collection Sheets Set It really is the little things that make you happy, like climbing into a soft and cozy bed at the end of a long day. I've influenced so many people to buy these sheets because I'm obsessed with how luxe they feel. I usually look forward to climbing into bed, but these sheets make it all the more exciting. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates Last Crumb The Core Collection I will gladly spend serious money on a basket of baked goods, especially pastries and cookies, and The Last Crumb is no exception. The brand makes some of the most delicious cookies I've ever had, and each piece is massive. Every bite makes me do a happy dance. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates Ototo Red the Crab Silicone Utensil Rest My dad gifted me this a few Christmases ago, and it's still one of my most-used and favorite kitchen items that brings joy. It's super functional because it holds your utensils and pot lids when you're not using them. Plus, it's super cute. — Ellen McAlpine, writer, updates Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera Photography makes me happy, but I especially love taking instant photos of my friends when we're doing one of our dinner parties or beach days. I feel even happier every time I look at all our photos on my fridge. This Instax makes it all possible. — Michelle Rae Uy, writer, testing and updates La Colombe Canned Oat Milk Double Draft Latte, Pack of 12 I discovered these canned lattes about three years ago, and I know it's going to be a good day whenever I pull one out of my fridge. I like to buy them in advance if I know I have a busy week ahead because they're a delicious caffeine kick that makes me happy. — Gareen Puglia, associate writer, testing Lego Super Mario Piranha Plant Set Here at CNN Underscored, our editors are big fans of Lego. It's a fun, creative hobby that stops you from doomscrolling your phone. We love that once you're finished with this fun Mario Cart-inspired Lego set, you have a fun display for your home. Ostrichpillow Self-Care Journal Whether you have a meditation practice or you're looking to use some time in your day for reflection, this journal is here to help with prompts to help you start writing. It also features pages to help you track sleep, nutrition, your mood and your exercise habits. The Bouqs Co. Lillie Fresh flowers are always a good way to brighten the mood, especially when they come in this chic reusable vase. The pops of color add freshness to your space and when it's time to replace the florals, you still have a pretty piece of home decor. Elago Game Console AirPods Case You take your AirPods with you everywhere, so keeping them protected in a case is a smart move. This one looks like a retro game console and comes with a carabiner to hook onto your keys or bag so you always have your earbuds on hand. Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks These glam eye masks will make your morning routine feel a little more fun. After testing, our fashion and beauty editor Sophie Shaw (and her mom!) was impressed with the hydrating formula and brightening effect. Plus, they didn't slide around while she wore them, so it was a foolproof addition to her morning our review Scrub Daddy Color Sponges, Pack of 3 Is cleaning always fun? No. But are these smiling sponges adorable? Yes. These expert-loved sponges change from a soft to abrasive texture depending on the water temperature they're exposed to, making them versatile enough to clean different areas around your house. A clean house is a happy house! Read our review Anthropologie Capri Blue Volcano Tin Candle Anthropologie's signature scent, the Capri Blue candle, has notes of tropical fruits including oranges, lemons and limes and fresh notes of greenery. This tin candle comes with a lid and is decorated with a bold design that looks nice while it's sitting out, waiting for you to light it and relax. Jall Wooden Digital Alarm Clock The key to starting your day on the right foot? Ensuring you have a trusty alarm clock. In our testing, this sleek alarm clock was a breeze to set up and use, and it comes with nifty features like humidity and temperature settings. It's the perfect affordable upgrade for your our review Uncommon Goods Coconut Fiber Dog Planters Here's a pawfect find for the dog lovers. These planters are made from coco coir, a material made from the husk of a coconut, and look like your favorite furry friends. Preston Lane Doheny Drive 3-Piece Kitchen Set Swap your boring kitchen cleaning essentials with this elevated trio that includes hand soap, dish soap and all-purpose cleaner. Plus, the Doheny Drive scent is citrusy, warm and fresh. Your kitchen will be cleaner and smell delicious. It's a win-win! CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors who have many years of testing experience and ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and speaking about pros and cons of each item. For this article, our writer Ellen McAlpine asked the CNN Underscored team for the little things they own that spark joy. She also included expert recommendations, best-tested products and more joy-inducing items from our other guides.
