A Kiwi skincare brand has launched a new moisturiser it hopes will do more than just nourish the skin.
Two Dudes, a skincare brand owned by Auckland-based duo Tomas Tappin and Michael McRae, announced this week the launch of their new 'Ball Butter', which hopes to "encourage dudes everywhere to check their nuts".
The moisturiser, designed to be rubbed into the scrotum, is made with sweet almond oil and fatty acids to retain moisture and heal chapped or irritated skin.
Released for Men's Health Month in June, the creators have clarified there are no medicinal ingredients in the new Ball Butter product - instead, it's just a "simple, nourishing moisturiser designed to be applied daily".
The idea is to encourage New Zealanders to get used to what their testicles normally look and feel like so they're more likely to notice any changes. Each label has instructions outlining how to check for testicular cancer.
McRae says that this product is no joke.
"Some of our family thought we were nuts to launch this product, pardon the pun. But while the product may seem a bit tongue-in-cheek, the message is actually really serious. Guys need to take note of what's going on below the belt because the sooner you catch a problem, the better," he said.
"We hope this new limited edition product shines a light on the issue of testicular cancer in a way that resonates with its target audience. Dudes."
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 39; but if diagnosed early, it has the highest cure rate of all cancers.
Tony Mitchell, a trustee at New Zealand Men's Health Trust, has praised the Ball Butter idea, saying men are "far too slack" when it comes to getting testicular checkups and "seeking help".
"We realise that it may be difficult to discuss this or let yourself be examined, but it is very important. Cancer isn't going away on its own so get yourself checked out, you will feel better that you did," he said.
Ball Butter will be available from Tuesday.
