Oars + Alps

Oars and Alps are from Chicago, like us. But we didn't give them any bonus points for the hometown advantage—their products passed the Bottlecode test all on their own. We like that O+A takes the active lifestyle into account during every aspect of the product development process. That's how you end up with face wash in solid form (super convenient for travel) and easy two-in-one formulations that actually make sense (most two-in-one products are bogus and bad for your skin). They focus on the basics, so you may need to look elsewhere for the more powerful stuff, but their product line continues to expand. So stay tuned.

Made in USA

The Oars & Alps Team call Chicago home.

Why we're big fans

Founded by two women whose husbands are big outdoor guys, they noticed what sun, sweat, wind, and daily dirt & grime could do to a man's skin. Then set about fixing it with a skincare line that was more affordable, less chemical-y, and more convenient than the other stuff they saw on shelves. They tout their natural ingredients like alpine moss and jojoba oil, don't use cheap, harmful stuff like parabens, and aren't afraid to apply science to drive results.