Making It Up: Smooth away those post-shaving blues

Men's shaving products are becoming more covetable. Buy lotions and potions for him then borrow them back, says Karen Krizanovich. And he can't complain, as long as you promise to stop using his razor.

DK Men After Shave Skin Conditioner costs a whopping pounds 27 but smells like a million dollars. Formulated with all the latest must-haves in skin care - AHA, an anti-oxidant and SPF 8 sunscreen - this is a fragrant, moisturising treat for thirsty skin. Try the matching shampoo and body cream ... A real find available at all leading department stores.

It's hard not to like Crabtree & Evelyn Mysore Sandalwood Shaving Soap (pounds 8.95). The most beautiful of shaving products, the tickly shaving brush (from pounds 10.50 to pounds 37.50) lifts hairs for a better shave. To get really close, go for a tube of Crabtree & Evelyn For Men Shaving Cream (pounds 6.50). Justifiably famous, it smells of a blend of 13 spices and is meshed with a very emollient cream, paving the way for a perfect shave. Available at all Crabtree & Evelyn shops and mail order at (01235) 862244.

Feeling a little guilty about nicking all his gear? Buy him two classics to keep: Clinique Turnaround Lotion (pounds 27) makes fine lines less visible and will stop him from looking like a saddlebag with eyes. Tough beard but baby-soft skin? Sling him Clinique Post-Shave Healer (pounds l5) - a light, gentle lotion that soothes away ouchy post-shave burn.

Last but not least, check out the entire Charles Worthington's Impact range for men, but especially the Charles Worthington Ultrafine Shaving Oil (30ml pounds 3.50). It feels sticky in your hand but when it's on your face (legs, underarms, etc), your razor becomes Torvill and Dean - it just glides. No shaving foam gets as close to the skin as this. Try the matching Charles Worthington Post-shave Moisturiser (pounds 6.00). With SPF 15, it absorbs quickly into the skin so it's perfect for when you have to shave and go, you know, like when he calls out, "Honey, are you done in there yet?"