Aqua Velva Ice Blue Cooling After Shave

“Recently, in desire of finding a "classic" aftershave, I turned to searching Reddit for information, which is how I discovered this wonderful community. Also, shout out to the awesome [Classic Commercial Aftershave review series](https://www.reddit.com/r/Wetshaving/comments/dpxgam/classic_commercial_aftershave_splashes_the/) over at r/wetshaving. In my search for a classic aftershave, there are some which I noticed are recommended frequently. Understandably, the Reddit wetshaving communities have a strong American presence, hence there are products discussed that aren't necessarily available on the Australian market. I was able to get my hands on these popular aftershaves: - Pinaud Clubman - Skin Bracer - Aqua Velva Ice Blue Pinaud Clubman I was able to source locally, thanks to The Stray Whisker. I had to resort to eBay to get Aqua Velva and Skin Bracer imported from the USA at a reasonable price. Anyway, here are my brief reviews of those products. **Pinaud Clubman** When I first smelled this, it instantly reminded me of Brut (more on that later). It is different but definitely in the same field, which I have since learned is fougere. The scent is wonderful and it has decent staying power without being overpowering. I know it has a reputation in the States for being an "old man" scent due to its popularity, availability, and longevity on the market. That being said, I actually love this shit and I'm very glad I found it. It has become a part of my regular rotation. **Skin Bracer** This really does smell and look like something that belongs on a shelf in a pharmacy, or "drugstore". I find the scent to be a little minty, kind of like toothpaste but not in a bad way. The scent is in no way offensive, so this is definitely a good option for those who don't want to annoy their partner/family/colleagues/friends with a potent fougere. However, I don't think it performs very well and the scent gets boring pretty quickly. **Aqua Velva Ice Blue** Wow, I've never smelled anything like this. I don't know what it is but I guess I would describe it as extremely musky? It is overpoweringly, possibly even offensively masculine. I imagine this is what those pheromone products smell like; the ones that are found in vending machines in dirty pub/nightclub bathrooms, alongside condoms. I don't hate the scent; it is certainly unique, and the product does perform well, but I can't see it appearing in my regular rotation. I could definitely see this scent being divisive to partners of those who wear it. **BONUS ROUND** **Brut** This is easily the most readily available aftershave on the Australian market. It has been a mainstay in grocery stores and pharmacies alike for decades. I am aware that Brut is formulated differently around the globe, and Australia is no exception to that, so this is not a review of American Brut. I purchased this at my local pharmacy after smelling Pinaud Clubman, because it immediately reminded me of Brut which my dad used to w”