Why Ingredients Matter:
When searching for the best beard grooming products, ingredients should be your top priority. Oils rich in vitamins and natural moisturizers can offer everything from beard growth essentials to combating skin irritation. For dry skin, look for products with argan or jojoba oil, known for their hydrating properties.
Understanding Your Needs:
Your beard and skin type dictate the kind of oil you should use. Those with sensitive skin might look for hypoallergenic options or oils with minimal added fragrances to avoid irritation. Meanwhile, if beard growth is your goal, consider oils that promote circulation and follicle health.
Application Tips for Maximum Benefit:
Applying beard oil isn't complicated, but there's a right way to do it to ensure you get the most out of your product. Start with a few drops, warm it between your palms, and work it through your beard and the skin beneath. This not only helps with distribution but also ensures that your skin absorbs the oil, providing maximum beard oil benefits.
Conclusion:
Whether you're a seasoned beard enthusiast or just starting, understanding the importance of selecting the right beard oil is key. With the right product, you can keep your beard looking pristine while ensuring the skin underneath remains healthy and irritation-free. As you navigate the world of beard grooming, remember that the best product is the one that meets your specific needs, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your beard.
Early Stages of Growth:
The initial stages of beard growth can be challenging, often characterized by itchiness and patchiness. Utilizing beard thickening products can help, as can keeping the skin beneath your beard moisturized to alleviate discomfort. Regular exfoliation can also encourage healthy growth by removing dead skin cells.
Mid-Growth: Navigating the Awkward Phase:
As your beard grows, you might encounter what's affectionately known as the "awkward phase," where hair grows at different rates, resulting in an uneven appearance. This is where trimming and shaping become crucial, not to reduce length, but to maintain a semblance of order and encourage even growth.
Achieving Full Growth:
Once you've navigated the early and mid-stages, maintaining a full beard becomes about routine care and grooming. Deep conditioning treatments, regular trims, and styling with the right products can keep your beard looking its best. Remember, a well-maintained beard is a healthy beard.
Conclusion:
The journey from stubble to a full beard is unique for every individual, but the fundamentals of care and maintenance remain the same. By understanding the needs of your beard at each stage of growth and utilizing the right products and techniques, you can achieve a beard that's not only a symbol of personal style but a testament to your dedication to grooming and care.
Choosing Sustainable Products:
Opting for beard care products that prioritize eco-friendly beard products can significantly reduce your environmental footprint. Look for brands that use organic, sustainably sourced ingredients and biodegradable or recyclable packaging. Men Rock, for example, is committed to environmentally friendly beard care, offering products that align with both your grooming needs and ecological values.
Minimizing Waste:
One of the simplest yet most effective steps toward sustainable grooming is minimizing waste. This can be as straightforward as using only the amount of product you need, reducing water usage while washing your beard, and choosing multi-use products that serve more than one purpose in your grooming routine.
Supporting Ethical Brands:
Supporting brands that not only provide high-quality, natural beard grooming products but also take an active stance on environmental issues is crucial. Look for companies that invest in sustainable practices, whether through ingredient sourcing, production processes, or community initiatives, as a way to contribute to a larger cause.
Conclusion:
Adopting eco-friendly beard care practices isn't just about making better choices for your grooming routine; it's about contributing to a sustainable future. By choosing environmentally conscious products and adopting greener habits, you can enjoy a well-groomed beard while knowing you're making a difference.
Exploring New Trends:
From the return of the full beard to more sculpted and defined shapes, staying abreast of contemporary beard shapes is key. This year, the focus is on versatility and personal expression, with an emphasis on styles that can be adapted to various occasions, from the boardroom to the bar.
Techniques for Perfect Styling:
Achieving the perfect beard style isn't just about cutting and shaping; it's also about using the right products. Beard grooming techniques have expanded to include a range of products, from waxes and balms to oils and serums, each serving a different purpose in achieving the desired look.
Personalization is Key:
The most important trend in beard styling is personalization. Whether it's choosing a style that complements your facial structure or incorporating unique touches that reflect your individuality, the best beard is one that feels uniquely yours.
Conclusion:
As beard styling continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest trends and techniques is crucial. By experimenting with different styles and products, you can find a beard look that not only suits your personal aesthetic but also places you at the forefront of grooming fashion.
Understanding the Basics:
The first step in any beard care routine is understanding the basics. From washing and conditioning to trimming and styling, each aspect plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and appearance of your beard. Incorporating basic beard grooming steps into your daily routine can significantly impact your beard's overall health.
Choosing the Right Products:
Selecting the right grooming products is essential. Look for quality shampoos, oils, and balms designed specifically for beard care. These beard care kit essentials can help moisturize your beard, soothe the skin underneath, and keep your facial hair looking its best.
Establishing a Routine:
Consistency is key when it comes to beard care. Establishing a routine that includes regular washing, conditioning, and oiling can keep your beard in top condition. Remember, a little goes a long way, and being diligent about your grooming habits can lead to impressive results over time.
Conclusion:
Beard care doesn't have to be complicated. By starting with the basics and gradually building your routine, you can achieve a healthy, well-groomed beard that reflects your style and personality. Remember, the journey to a great beard is a marathon, not a sprint, and patience and consistency are your best allies.
Why Beard Oil is a Game-Changer:
Beard oil isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for anyone serious about beard care. With benefits ranging from moisturizing the skin underneath to giving your beard a healthy, shiny appearance, finding the best beard grooming products can make all the difference. Look for oils that contain natural ingredients, which can help with everything from beard growth to preventing irritation.
Grooming Your Beard:
Regular grooming is essential. This doesn't just mean a quick comb through. It involves washing with a gentle, beard-specific shampoo, conditioning to keep the hair soft, and regular trims to get rid of split ends. Incorporating beard care essentials into your daily routine can transform your beard from unkempt to unparalleled.
Tailored Advice for Every Beard Type:
Every beard is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Whether you need beard thickening products or solutions for a patchy beard, understanding your beard type and how to care for it is key. For instance, shorter beards may require more frequent trimming and shaping, while longer beards might benefit more from deep conditioning treatments.
Conclusion:
Embracing your beard's potential requires the right approach and products. By integrating these beard maintenance tips into your routine, you can ensure your beard remains as healthy and impressive as possible. Remember, the goal isn't just growth; it's about maintaining a beard that feels as good as it looks, showcasing your personal style and confidence.
1. Understand Your Beard Growth Cycle: Every beard journey starts with understanding your hair’s growth cycle, which has three stages - Anagen (growth phase), Catagen (transition phase), and Telogen (resting phase). Patience is key, as a full beard typically takes two to six months to develop fully.
2. Start with a Clean Slate: Begin with a clean, exfoliated face. This encourages healthy hair growth, reduces the risk of ingrown hairs, and keeps the skin underneath your beard healthy.
3. Embrace the Awkward Phase: As your beard starts to grow, you'll encounter the 'awkward phase' where hair can look uneven and patchy. Resist the urge to trim or shape during this time. Let it grow!
4. Nutrition and Hydration: A well-balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals is crucial for healthy hair growth. Stay hydrated too, as water is essential for detoxifying your body and supporting hair growth.
5. Beard Care Products: Invest in quality beard care products. Beard oils and balms keep your beard hair nourished and moisturized, reducing itchiness and promoting healthier growth. Men Rock offers a range of products tailored for different beard types.
6. Regular Trimming: Once your beard has grown in, regular trims are vital to maintain its shape and remove split ends. Use the right tools – a quality beard trimmer or a pair of barber's scissors – for precision.
7. Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which is beneficial for hair growth. It also helps to regulate testosterone levels, which can positively impact beard growth.
8. Get Enough Sleep: Adequate rest is crucial for overall health and beard growth. Sleep helps to repair skin cells and promote hair growth, so aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
9. Be Patient and Consistent: Growing a beard is a journey that requires patience and consistency. Embrace each stage of growth and stay committed to your grooming routine.
Conclusion: Growing a beard is an adventure that tests your patience but rewards you with a symbol of masculinity and personal style. Remember, every beard is unique, and embracing your individual growth pattern and style is part of the fun.
Discover Your Beard’s Potential - Explore Men Rock’s grooming essentials and take your first step towards a magnificent beard journey!
]]>The Calming Routine: Grooming routines provide a structured start or end to your day, offering a sense of control and normalcy. Whether it’s a morning shave or an evening skincare regimen, these moments of self-care are pockets of tranquility. They offer an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and practice mindfulness. The act of grooming becomes meditative, allowing you to focus on the present, reduce stress, and calm your mind.
Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem: Looking good often translates to feeling good. A well-groomed appearance can significantly boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. It’s not just about societal perceptions; it’s about how you perceive yourself. When you take the time to care for your appearance, you send a positive message to yourself – you are worth the time and effort. This self-affirmation is powerful in uplifting your mental state.
The Therapeutic Touch: The physical aspect of grooming – the tactile sensation of applying beard oil, the rhythmic motion of a razor, the refreshing splash of aftershave – can be incredibly therapeutic. These sensory experiences can ground you, providing a comforting and familiar routine. Moreover, products infused with natural fragrances like sandalwood or citrus can have a subtle aromatherapeutic effect, enhancing mood and reducing anxiety.
Grooming as Self-Expression: Men Rock champions the diversity of masculinity. Grooming is a form of self-expression, a way to showcase your individuality. Whether it’s experimenting with beard styles or choosing products that align with your values, grooming allows you to express and embrace your unique identity. This freedom of expression is empowering and plays a crucial role in mental well-being.
A Community of Care: Finally, grooming is not an isolated activity; it’s part of a broader community and culture. Engaging in discussions about grooming tips, sharing experiences, or even visiting a barbershop fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie. This social aspect can provide emotional support and a sense of connection, which are fundamental for mental health.
Conclusion: At Men Rock, we understand that grooming is more than just a daily chore; it’s a journey towards self-care and mental well-being. Our range of products is designed to make your grooming routine a therapeutic experience, supporting not just your physical appearance but also your mental health. So, the next time you reach for that shaving brush or beard oil, remember – you’re not just caring for your appearance; you’re nurturing your mind and spirit.
Discover the Men Rock Difference - Explore our range and embark on a grooming journey that benefits both your look and your well-being.
]]>What is Niacinamide? Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that works wonders for the skin. Unlike some skincare ingredients that are harsh and irritating, Niacinamide is gentle and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It's known for its versatility and multitude of benefits.
Benefits for Men's Skin:
How to Incorporate Niacinamide in Your Routine: Incorporating Niacinamide into your grooming regime is straightforward. Look for serums or moisturizers with Niacinamide as a key ingredient. After cleansing your face, apply a Niacinamide-infused product before your sunscreen in the morning or use it as part of your nighttime routine.
Niacinamide and Other Skincare Ingredients: One of the best things about Niacinamide is its ability to work harmoniously with other skincare ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol, and even exfoliating acids. This compatibility makes it a versatile addition to any skincare routine.
Conclusion: Niacinamide is an unsung hero in the world of men's skincare. Its multi-faceted benefits make it a must-have in your grooming arsenal. Whether you're dealing with post-shave irritation, oily skin, visible aging, or just want to maintain a healthy complexion, Niacinamide has got you covered.
Explore Men Rock's Niacinamide Products - Elevate your skincare game with our range that harnesses the power of Niacinamide, tailored for the modern man.
]]>Curious why some wet shavers swear by it to provide the closest shave ever? Here are the top tips how to use our Shavette and achieve the best shaving results:
Finally, before getting that super-sharp blade anywhere near your boat race, watch our short Men Rock videos, beginning with ‘How to put a blade in a Shavette’; then ‘Shave Preparation’ followed by ‘How to Shave’.
Now you’re ready. Get Men Rock Cut Throat Shavette Razor Starter Pack and join an exclusive club whose members rarely go back to convenience shaving.
]]>When it comes to beards, often you will be left needing a trim but not a full shave. And for this it is usually perfectly fine to tackle the problem without a razor. All you need to give your beard a lighter and natural look is....a good quality pair of scissors.
]]>When it comes to beards, often you will be left needing a trim but not a full shave. And for this it is usually perfectly fine to tackle the problem without a razor. All you need to give your beard a lighter and natural look is....a good quality pair of scissors.
Choosing scissors
Make sure that your scissors are rust free and have no imperfections such as notches in the blade. Using old, tired scissors with such imperfections can result in tugging your beard and may cause you to tear the hair rather than cut it. Do not use scissors which are not designed for your beard. Scissors can be big and clumsy and will result in unwanted cuts as well as a poor-quality trim. Use beard scissors which have been created to give you a great beard grooming experience.
Cleaning and preparation
Wash your beard thoroughly ensuring that you properly dry it afterwards. Trimming whilst it is still wet can give a much shorter beard than desired. A hairdryer will get the job done in no time at all. Firstly, comb your hair down in the direction of your hair then upwards, against the direction of growth. Doing this will make your beard appear fluffy and is important as it leaves your hair loose and standing out, ready to be trimmed.
Use a comb / Method
You should use a comb as a guide to avoid cutting your beard too short. In a similar way to how a barber cuts hair, gather hair with the comb and snip away the hair from the outside of the teeth. Comb from your ear to your jaw making sure not to expose too much hair. Using a comb makes it easier to control how much you trim, ultimately helping you avoid the dreaded mistake of going too short.
It is advised to use a beard comb as its wider teeth and design are tailor made for your beard, giving you greater control and making the process even easier. Repeat the process of combing and cutting until you are satisfied with your beard length. Comb through your beard on both sides to double check that they are of an even length.
Chin and moustache
Next, you want to trim that hair on your neck as short as possible with your scissors and make any final changes. Of course, it is best to use a razor for this but you can still produce good results with beard scissors alone.
The chin area is slightly trickier but the method remains the same. Simply comb the hair upward first and then gather the hair with the comb trimming away the protruding hair. Repeat the process until you are happy with the length. For your moustache start by combing down and trimming the hair which stretches past the lip.
Finally, wash your beard once more to remove the loose hair. Use some beard oil to complete your look and then enjoy your newly trimmed beard.
]]>Here is the grisly truth behind the barber’s pole.
The barbershop, as you may know, was not always the friendly, chatty social centre where men relaxed while having a shave, haircut or beard trim. Centuries ago, it was a grim and grisly place where you suffered the ministrations of the barber-surgeon who often specialised in blood-letting (besides pulling teeth, setting bones and treating wounds).
The Meaning Of Colours
The red and white pole outside would announce to passers-by that here was where you could have your blood drained. The white represented the bandages, although they would rarely have been so, given the insanitary conditions of the times. Red clearly indicates the … well, you get the picture.
Why a pole? Legend has it that patients held a pole in their right hand to keep the arm straight. This would be secured in place by a bandage wrapped around the arm. Voila! The inspiration for the red and white, instantly recognisable, barber’s symbol.
In America, the barber’s colours were red, white and blue. Not necessarily for any patriotic reason though – it’s generally believed that the blue signified the darker colour of the blood in the veins.
Leeches In A Bowl
There’s more, though not for the feint-hearted. Early barbers used leeches for blood lettings and typically kept these bloodsuckers in a metal bowl atop a post. The orb at one end of the barber’s pole is said to signify the leech bowl, and the orb at another end might represent the bowl of blood filled during the procedure.
So…Have we convinced you that dressing up as a barber pole is perfect for Halloween?
We understand that you might want to stay away from the barbershops until this Sweeney Todd-like story wears off.
Check out our shaving collection inspired by barber shops but giving you a chance to enjoy traditional wet shaving at home.
If you typically head to the barbers to get your beard groomed, you can find everything you need in our beard care collection.
Happy Halloween! 🎃
Men Rock
]]>Why does it start up in the first place? Well, supposing you’ve been shaving for years – all that scraping toughens up your bristles so when they do start to grow out they can irritate your skin. Plus, they’re dry since your skin has to produce a lot more natural oil to lubricate and cope with the new growth. Then, of course, your bristles can attract debris: fluff and dust and fine airborne stuff, not to mention food particles.
All of this new activity can easily spark the dreaded itch. But don’t give up just yet, help is at hand. There are ways to beat it. Think of yourself as a marathon runner breaking through the pain barrier…
At the risk of stating the bleeding’ obvious, beards need care. So if you’re growing one just to save time and avoid shaving, the game’s up. First, you need to keep it clean (but not too clean).
WASH IT
Washing your beard every day with soap and water is not a good idea as it removes the natural oils which will help keep your bristles supple. You can always rinse regularly with plain water and no soap if this feels wrong. Some swear by washing with soap and warm (not hot) water every other day.
Use a good quality soap designed for beards. Remember, beard hair isn’t like the hair on your head. It's actually called androgenic hair and its growth is driven mainly by your testosterone. That's why you need to take care of your beard differently than other hair on your body, and beard shampoo is a painless and enjoyable way to do it. Especially with these two beautiful soap scents coming from Men Rock: Oak moss or Sicilian lime.
DRY IT
Drying your beard thoroughly after washing is also important to avoid the itch. If you have a particularly fulsome thatch, a hair dryer might come in handy. Besides, heat can help with taming and training your beard. Yes, correct! It is possible to train the hair to grow in a certain way while you brush or comb. Last but not least, a hair dryer will speed up your grooming routine.
HYDRATE IT
You need to ensure that your pride and joy is properly hydrated. Beard oil and beard balm are essential. Seriously, without oil or balm many beards would be dry and tough, creating ideal conditions for itching. And dandruff on your chest will not attract a partner. You can choose from Oak moss or Sicilian lime scented balms to match your Men Rock beard soap.
Nearly there. Remember, beards are like dogs – they’re not just for Christmas etc. Come to think of it, beards are probably better than dogs in that you don’t have to walk them every day.
Now, as with doggy care, consider trimming and brushing. Trim regularly to keep your beard looking good and if you’re getting a regular itch, consider a shorter style where your beard has less chance of drying out.
The itch can also be caused by ingrown hairs, so check for these. We did an advisory piece some months ago on this very topic – check it out here.
Sorted? We’re always happy to help.
]]>Regular shavers may from time to time suffer from this itchy and embarrassing affliction, so, looking out for your interests, we donned our white coats and went in search of solutions.
Anyone can get ingrown hairs, though they tend to be more of a problem in people with coarse or curly hair.
Short and curly
Why do we get them? Well, reliable sources explain that they are caused by hairs that grow out of the skin, curl back and re-enter. Some hairs can curl back into the hair follicles – the small cavities in the skin that hairs grow out of – without even leaving the skin.
Ingrown hairs can also occur when the hair follicle becomes clogged with dead skin cells. The hair inside it is forced to grow sideways. This is much more likely to happen if the hair is already curly or coarse and it’s recently been shaved.
Shaving sharpens hair to a point, making it easier to pierce the skin when it curls back. Which is why the problem occurs mainly in those areas we shave.
Tackling the problem
Having identified the enemy, what can we do about it?
Top tips
Naturally, most of us will want to continue wet shaving and avoid the annoyance of ingrown hair. If you don’t want to stop shaving, we’ve gleaned these useful tips for you. OK, we’re not doctors, but this is pukka advice:
Check out our Shaving range for enjoyable wet shaving rituals no matter what!
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The skin beneath your beard needs to be protected from the razor’s cutting edge and your beard should be softened. That’s why begin with the hot, damp towel or hot shower. Or both, if you have the time.
Shower. Although you don’t need a hot shower before you shave, it’s a great way to get a lot of hot water onto your face rather than on the bathroom floor. Showering before will make your whiskers moist and soft.
Face Wash. Use it to remove oils and dirt from your whiskers and to help the hair absorb water. In the course of a day your skin acquires lots of impurities including dead skin cells, oils and dirt. It can clog you pores, make the skin rougher and, if not removed, reduce the efficiency – and efficacy – of your perfect shave.
Towel. Take a soft cotton towel, rinse it with hot water and wrap it around your face tightly. Keep it there for several minutes, four ideally. Many say it takes that long for water to properly soak into the hair to make it shave-ready. A popular method of preparing the hot towel is to heat a damp one in the microwave for about 30 seconds. But we prefer the gourmet approach and it’s using a vegetable steamer!
Lather. Rinse well and don’t towel dry your face between showering and shaving. Let the water stay on your face, keeping the whiskers soft, then lather up ready for the blade. To heighten the pleasure of the experience use one of the Men Rock Shave Creams available in Sandalwood, Sicilian Lime and Back Pomegranate fragrances.
If you prefer the feeling of a sharp blade to a whining electric muncher, you should try our Men Rock retro razors – the Cut Throat Shavette, the Double Edged Razor or the Straight Razor. Once one of these razors hits your skin, you’ll notice the difference.
No pressure – gently does it. These razors are not designed to hack into the beard or stubble and doing so will lead to irritation. Instead, allow the blade to gently glide across the face. Even with light pressure, they will remove stubble.
Change the angle – Double Edged and Cut Throat razors should move across the beard at an angle of 30 degrees. Start slowly and carefully with short, light strokes in the direction of the hair growth. Experiment and follow the line of least resistance – that’s the direction of your hair growth. It is different for every man. Once you’ve settled on a direction, avoid slicing or side to side motion with the blade.
Stretch the skin – More so than multi-blade cartridges, double edged razors do their best work on skin that is held taut. When making passes on you cheeks or neck, use your free hand to stretch the skin in front of the blade in these areas.
Rinse often – running the blade or blades under water clears any shaving debris allowing the blade to give a closer shave. It’s much easier to keep the cutting edge clean than with a multi-blade razor that is easily clogged by soap and bristles.
If you’re keen to experience a really close shave, why not try one of our Wet Shaving Starter Packs: The Cut Throat Shavette Kit or The Double Edged Safety Razor Kit. They both provide everything you need – except hot water!
Also, check a selection of shaving ‘How To’ videos on our Youtube channel.
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1. CHOOSE YOUR STYLE CAREFULLY. You could begin with one of those fun apps where you superimpose a beard onto a photo of your face. We‘ve done some testing – Beard Man: Photo Editor App appears pretty decent and doesn't have too many annoying ads. It might give you some idea of what style would best suit without going through the awkward stage.
2. ONCE YOU START GROWING IT, BE PREPARED FOR THE QUESTIONS. It starts at the stubble stage: ‘Are you growing a beard?’ or worse, ‘Are you trying to grow a beard?’. Once the facial fuzz really shows, questions turn to ‘Why are you growing that beard?’. Better have your answers ready for this one if you want to stay cool. ‘Couldn’t be bothered to shave’ won’t cut it.
3. BEGIN BY GROWING OUT A FULL BEARD. That’s our best shot at how to go about making the vital choice. Clean up your cheek and necklines and take another close look. Next, take off a bit more and give it a thinner, more defined look. With your beard fully grown, you can now play around. Fancy a Three Musketeers look with long sideburns? An intellectual goatee? A wacky Salvador Dali (we’ve got the Men Rock Oak Moss Beard And Moustache Wax!).
4. EXPERIMENT UNTIL YOU FIND THE LOOK. The beauty of any facial hair is that it is never fixed. You can keep it the same, alter it slightly and gradually or change it radically within a few minutes. So if you’re a bit of fashionista, your beard can easily keep up with what’s trending. Surf and seek out images of the cooler beard and stubble wearers you most admire and pick out those who have a similarly shaped face to your own.
5. KEEP IT CLEAN. BUT NOT TOO CLEAN. Washing your beard every day with soap and water is not a good idea as it removes the natural oils which will help keep your bristles supple. Some swear by washing with soap and warm (not hot) water every other day. Use a good quality beard soap meant for cleaning, conditioning and softening that facial forest. It just so happens that we offer beard soaps which are not only ideal for those purposes but come in wonderful manly aromas - earthy oak moss or citrusy Sicilian lime.
6. GOT THAT ITCHY FEELING? When growing their first beard, some find they get annoying itchiness on the skin. This should pass as your face gets used to this new growth. But we’ve got the answer – one of the two Men Rock beard balms: Soothing Oak Moss or Awakening Sicilian Lime & Caffeine. Use these at every stage and not only will you feel good, but your loved ones will think you smell great. While they’re getting used to you with your beard.
7. FINALLY, A WORD ABOUT ONGOING CARE. Looking after your beard may take more time than shaving so it’s not really a shirker’s option unless you want to look scruffy and let the side down. To maintain your skin and beard in good condition, you will need to take up beard grooming. Take a look at our range of accessories where you’ll find everything you need.
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