Beyond Lab Series: 10 Independent Skincare Brands Redefining Men's Grooming

Published on: November 16, 2024
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For decades, Lab Series has been the go-to name in men's skincare, with their clinical aesthetics and science-forward marketing. But while they were busy maintaining their corporate empire, a new generation of independent brands started questioning the status quo. These upstarts are introducing better ingredients, sustainable practices, and formulations that actually make sense.
We've discovered ten brands that offer compelling alternatives to Lab Series products. From Korean beauty innovations to Mediterranean-inspired formulas, these companies are writing new chapters in the men's grooming story. Here's our deep dive into the brands worth knowing about.

: When Ex-Industry Insiders Create Their Own Rules

The Face Moisturizer Duo from Huron shows what happens when veterans of the beauty industry break free from corporate constraints. Founded by former executives who'd spent years developing products for luxury brands, Huron brings that high-end expertise to a wider audience.
Their manufacturing takes place in the USA, with formulations that prioritize clean, effective ingredients. What caught our attention is how they've stripped away the unnecessary complexities that often plague men's skincare, focusing instead on what actually works. The founders' background in premium skincare is evident in their attention to detail, from texture to absorption rates.

Why we like Huron

  • 1

    Industry Expertise

    Founded by beauty industry veterans with deep formulation knowledge

  • 2

    Made in USA

    Local manufacturing ensures quality control and supports domestic production

  • 3

    Simplified Approach

    Removes unnecessary complexities while maintaining premium quality

: Where Modern Science Meets Old-School Craft

Supply's Multi Purpose Moisturizer represents a fascinating marriage of traditional grooming wisdom and contemporary innovation. This husband-and-wife operation emerged from their frustration with the market's tendency to over-complicate and over-charge.
We're intrigued by their methodical approach to product development, which involves extensive testing phases and constant refinement. While their Shark Tank appearance brought them into the spotlight, it's their dedication to plant-based ingredients and traditional techniques that's building a community of devoted users.

Why we like Supply

  • 1

    Methodical Development

    Extensive testing and refinement process ensures product quality

  • 2

    Plant-Based Focus

    Commitment to natural, plant-derived ingredients

  • 3

    Value-Driven

    Premium quality without the luxury markup

: Korean Innovation Finds Its American Voice

Through their Exfoliating Facial Toner Wipes, Cardon demonstrates how Korean skincare wisdom can be adapted for Western consumers. The brand emerged from an unlikely partnership between Korean beauty expert Narae and e-commerce specialist Jacqueline.
Their formulations incorporate the advanced ingredients that have made Korean skincare a global phenomenon. The brand's growing collection of industry awards suggests they're onto something with their approach to bridging Eastern innovation and Western preferences.

Why we like Cardon

  • 1

    Korean Beauty Expertise

    Brings advanced K-beauty innovation to Western markets

  • 2

    Cross-Cultural Innovation

    Unique blend of Eastern ingredients and Western preferences

  • 3

    Award-Winning

    Recognition from industry experts validates their approach

Jimmy Lin

Jimmy Lin

06/18/24

One of the easiest additions I’ve had to my morning routine!

: Clean Beauty Without the Greenwashing

Operating out of Costa Mesa, jack henry's cleanse+ bodywash exemplifies their no-nonsense approach to natural skincare. Founder Kyle Bardouche has created something rare: a truly clean beauty line that doesn't compromise on effectiveness.
The brand's in-house manufacturing gives them unusual control over their formulations. We're particularly impressed by their commitment to organic ingredients and sustainable packaging, which feels authentic rather than trendy. Their recipes work with the skin's natural processes instead of against them.

Why we like jack henry

  • 1

    In-House Manufacturing

    Complete control over product quality and formulation

  • 2

    Genuine Clean Beauty

    Authentic commitment to organic ingredients

  • 3

    Natural Alignment

    Products work with skin's natural processes

: Mediterranean Wisdom Gets a Modern Update

Maapilim's Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid channels centuries of Mediterranean grooming traditions through a contemporary lens. Based in Tel Aviv, they're bringing fresh perspective to an industry that often feels stuck in a rut.
Each formula tells a story of the region's natural resources and cultural heritage. Their products incorporate ingredients that Mediterranean communities have trusted for generations, validated by modern research. The result is skincare that feels both timeless and thoroughly current.

Why we like Maapilim

  • 1

    Mediterranean Heritage

    Incorporates traditional ingredients with proven benefits

  • 2

    Modern Validation

    Scientific backing for historical remedies

  • 3

    Cultural Innovation

    Fresh perspective from Tel Aviv's beauty scene

: From Barbershop Chair to Bathroom Cabinet

The triRescue Eye Cream from Blind Barber reflects their evolution from hip barbershop to serious skincare brand. Their hands-on experience with clients has shaped their understanding of what men actually need, not what marketing departments think they want.
Their product development benefits from direct customer feedback in their barbershops. We appreciate how this real-world testing ground has led to products that solve genuine problems rather than invented ones.

Why we like Blind Barber

  • 1

    Real-World Testing

    Products developed based on direct customer feedback

  • 2

    Practical Solutions

    Addresses actual customer needs rather than marketing hype

  • 3

    Professional Heritage

    Barbershop expertise influences product development

: Data-Driven Skincare That Actually Makes Sense

Geologie's Micro Exfoliator & 3 Minute Clay Mask shows how data and personalization can elevate skincare. Their approach combines proven active ingredients with customized formulations based on individual needs.
The brand's scientific methodology extends to their testing and refinement processes. By focusing on established active ingredients and eliminating fluff, they're creating products that deliver consistent results. Their transparency about ingredients and mechanisms of action is refreshing in an industry often shrouded in pseudo-science.

Why we like Geologie

  • 1

    Data-Driven Approach

    Uses analytics to inform product development

  • 2

    Personalization Focus

    Customized formulations for individual needs

  • 3

    Scientific Transparency

    Clear communication about ingredients and mechanisms

: California Cool Meets Clinical Effectiveness

The Bro Mask Eye Gels from Jaxon Lane showcase this California couple's knack for combining serious skincare with accessibility. Industry recognition has followed their innovative approach to formulation.
Their hybrid philosophy - mixing proven active ingredients with traditional remedies - yields products that tackle both immediate concerns and long-term skin health. The brand's multiple industry awards suggest they've struck a compelling balance between science and usability.

Why we like Jaxon Lane

  • 1

    Hybrid Approach

    Combines active ingredients with traditional remedies

  • 2

    Award-Winning

    Industry recognition for innovative formulations

  • 3

    Balanced Philosophy

    Equal focus on immediate results and long-term benefits

Looking Ahead

These brands represent a shift in men's skincare - away from corporate formulas and toward thoughtful, innovative solutions. Whether you're drawn to Korean technology, Mediterranean ingredients, or clean beauty, these alternatives to Lab Series often deliver superior results through more considered formulations. The evolution of men's grooming continues, and these independent brands are helping write its next chapter.