One's choice in fragrance really speaks volumes about who you are, a man's fragrance is his identity, his mantra if you will. Think of choosing a man's fragrance to be not unlike that of what you choose to drink. Each boasts numerous options, whilst some are suitable for special occasions (i.e. Champagne) others are perfect for a far more laid back scenario (i.e. Beer).

Fragrances with a fresh and citrus hint to them, such as D&G's Masculine, could be worn during a walk in the park or even whilst working out at the gym it would serve to energise, refresh and revitalise oneself. Choosing a more woody, spicy or aromatic fragrance to wear on a dinner date or after-work soiree, would evoke masculinity, sophistication and even suggest a hint of manly ruggedness.

The following is a roundup of my favourite fragrances (in no particular order) that are chiefly aromatic or woody in nature:

L'Instant de Guerlain pour Homme RRP: 44 (75ml)
"This luminous woody fragrance opens with fresh notes of jasmine, citrus and star anise, leading to notes of hibiscus, patchouli, sandalwood, lapsang tea and bitter cacao bean."

This has to be one my favourites of this list, as it exudes a fantastically masculine yet exotic aroma which gradually fades, leaving a charmingly distinct scent of sandalwood which will remain for hours.

Gucci Pour Homme RRP: 46 (100ml)
"Gucci Pour Homme Edt Spray by Gucci was launched 2004. It is a spicy, oriental blend. The scent is intense and lush, spicy and aromatic with notes of leather and amber. Full bodied, romantic and very masculine Gucci Pour Homme Edt Spray is recommended for Romantic wear."

Leathery and manly is definitely the order of the day with this fragrance, this EDT would compliment your favourite pair of lofas and your most debonair button up collared shirt. It says I am the man I've always wanted to be, I am successful and sophisticated, seduction is my chapel and women my prayer.

Fahrenheit by Dior RRP: 40 (100ml)
"A resolutely contemporary fragrance characterized by a meeting of extremes. Fresh, elegant notes blend in perfect harmony with bolder, more virile overtones to create a scent that is warm, subtle, and distinguished."

Opens with a very earthy, dusty mellow lavender - you are then left with a very woody and leathery base. This is a distinctively recognisable classic (released 1998), that never fails to impress and intrigue and like all good quality fragrances remains (and transforms in aroma) for quite some time.

Safari by Ralph Lauren RRP: 48 (125ml)
"Introduced By Ralph Lauren in 1992. SAFARI is a refreshing. spicy. lavender. amber fragrance. This Perfume has a blend of lemon. lavender. leather. cinnamon. oakmoss and sandalwood. It is recommended for daytime wear."

This is definitely a scent for the most rugged of men out there, incredibly spicy with sandalwood roots. Wearing this fragrance you cannot deny smelling noticeably fresh, like having just emerged from a bath lathered with tarragon and lavender and doused with old worn saddle leather.

Well there you have it, these are the top choices to keep an eye out for if you are looking for a new woody or aromatic scent. All of these fragrances are incredibly versatile, manly, woody and yet suggestively seductive - but not overbearing by any means and would be a welcomed addition to any man's fragrance collection.

Upon completing his B-Tech degree in Multi-Media James relocated to London, U.K. and became an internet entrepreneur. Thrown into the deep end he gained a hands-on experience in all facets of online retail and now has an extensive knowledge of running a profitable online business. James is the founder and owner of the U.K. based mens skin care and grooming retail store Metro Joe, which boasts and impressive assortment of mens grooming products as well as advanced skin care ranges. As well as being the founder and owner of The Toy Farm, which sells an array of adult toys, gifts, lingerie, DVDs and more.

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While many focus upon the biological or medicinal side of acne, there are many researchers who are trying to see if there might be a natural cure to this disease; a disease which effects so many people.

One commonality that these researchers are finding is that acne, although genetically passed on, can be controlled with diet. Some scientists may disagree, but we've all heard the old adage, "what you put in is what you get out". This may be true with acne; even in it's most severe forms.

First and foremost, obesity has been thought as a major factor contributing to acne. With an obese person, there is an increased activity in the glands of the body, and this includes the glands below hair follicles, which produce oil. Losing weight and exercising each and every day may help immensely. This requires no drugs, just self-control and willpower.

Diet is another major concern for naturalists striving for a cure. They are finding that a diet rich in vegetable and fruit helps significantly balance hormones that effect glands. Vegetables and fruit help keep the body in homeostasis, or in balance.

The intake of fatty foods, such as Trans Fats, or those made from animal products (milk based products, i.e. margarine and even vegetable oils), also increases gland activity in the body. There is a type of oil; however, that may be good at fighting against acne.

Omega-3 oils, commonly found in fish and sea animals, is natural oil that is good for the body, especially for the skin. Other foods that contain oils, sugars, caffeine, carbonization and heavy amounts of salts, should be avoided at all costs for sufferers of acne.

Zinc, a mineral gaining much popularity in the natural world for its medicinal qualities, helps fight the clogging of pores that leads to acne. In the form of gluconate or sulfate, it helps the skin heal blemishes and helps to balance hormonal activity.

Zinc has recently been found to be as effective as prescription strength tetracycline. Other vitamins, including vitamin A and B6 may help substantially in hormonal balance, resulting in clearer, healthier skin.

In any case, the positive effects seen from the uses of natural medications and a proper diet cannot be ignored. Even when compared to synthetic treatment options, natural healing with vitamins and minerals may help even the most severe cases.

Discover useful advice and information about the causes and prevention of acne. Website contains useful articles and updated information on this nasty skin condition. http://www.acne-treatment-zap.com/acne-care.html

Steve Williams is a freelance writer, who suffered acne for many years. His research into prevention and acne cures have helped him, and other fellow sufferers.

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