Any craftsman worth their toolkit knows that quality products and utensils are worth their weight in gold. Here, our editor weighs in on the most impressive men’s grooming picks for your collection, many of which combine style and substance.
HAIR
Sitting somewhere between a cream and a wax, Patricks styling products provide more than enough hold to keep your ‘do in place without the sticky residue typical of stronger formulas. Each tin is infused with the brand’s proprietary Recovery Compound, helping to reduce hair loss and nourish the scalp with an added anti-ageing effect.
SHAVING
Alongside a rise in popularity of tailored products, an increased reverence for the daily ritual of shaving means there’s no reason not to invest in high quality barbershop classics such as shaving brushes or beard washes. Enriched with the brand’s iconic scents, Acqua di Parma’s Barbiere grooming line will brighten up any bathroom countertop with its signature sunny yellow packaging that nods to the Italian Riviera. The Barbiere Travel Brush and Deluxe Stand is a luxurious favourite, while the Soft Shaving Cream and Refreshing After Shave Emulsion is an indispensable duo for anyone who loves the satisfaction of a manual shave.
SKIN
When it comes to superlative facial products, Acqua di Parma is one great example. Another is Gentlemen’s Tonic’s Advanced Derma skincare. The British grooming brand is renowned worldwide thanks to its presence in all the top hotels and spas, and this results-driven, pharmaceutical-grade luxury line is made up of a number of targeted serums. The Hero Peptide Serum uses natural peptides and amino acids to smooth wrinkles, while the Time Control Solution draws on botanical antioxidants to exfoliate and fight damage caused by free radicals.
TREATMENTS
Sometimes, the boys just want a little help with sallow skin or dark circles. Introducing Carl & Son, a Scandinavian brand that uses vegan and natural ingredients to create, among other treasures, cover-up solutions specifically for men. The Spot Fighter is a waterproof, longwear concealer for imperfections that contains salicylic acid to treat acne at the same time; the Dark Circle Eliminator uses anti-ageing ingredients to soften fine lines while masking signs of sleepless nights; and the transparent Brow Definer gel is a game-changer for unruly brows, complete with moisturising ingredients to nourish.