Words: Josh Lee
After an underperforming July, it seems that summer is finally showing some signs of life, and, as brighter days are appearing to be a somewhat regular fixture in the calendar once again, you’re likely going to juice as much as you can from the final stretch of sun this year.
Before winter’s cassoulets and stews make their way to tabletops once again, you’ll probably try to get your fill on delicate dishes that sing to the lighter months; linens and breathable cottons will continue to be the foundations of your wardrobe before the months of wool and padded items return; and, with agreeable temperatures staying for a little longer, you’ll rinse the opportunity to make a beeline to the UK’s green spaces.
And, of course, there’s the topic of grooming, which, too, syncs up to the season’s needs. That same routine you relied on to protect yourself throughout the past few weeks of average summer climes isn’t going to cut it anymore, and so a change-up is definitely needed – but adjustments needn’t be large scale or comprehensive, for we’ve often found that just a few tweaks will do.
To steer you in the right direction, here are the best products that’ll help you polish up in the best possible way…
Dr Sebagh, Pure Vitamin C Powder Cream
For years, Dr Sebagh has been recognised for its ‘Advanced Ageing-Maintenance Skin Care’ line, which makes use of biotech ingredients – including sesame protein complex and hazelnut ogliopeptides – as well as the collaborative efforts of its namesake founder and his team of international chemists. If you feel like your skin has taken its toll of late, whether due to stress, environmental pollution or UV rays, try this bijou item, which is a powder that evolves into a light cream after application and releases vitamin C onto your complexion (we recommend applying to the face and neck.) An easy way to glow up, store one in your desk drawer or to-go bag.
Dr Sebagh, Vital Cream
If the past few months have felt like a harsh, unforgiving time, they’ve probably done some below-the-surface damage to your complexion – therefore, you’ll need some deep-cleaning, hydrating solutions. Dr Sebagh’s lightweight Vital Cream, which we recommend pairing with the previous item, is another grooming staple that’ll help you get polished up – chock full of anti-ageing peptides, it not only deeply moisturisers, but also protects against any signs of premature ageing, meaning that the recent late-nights at the office won’t be too visible, come autumn.
AKT, The Deodorant Balm
There are several draws when it comes to the range of goods by bijou brand AKT: the aluminium tube in which they arrive, you’ll notice rather instantly, is defined by a vibrant, feel-good aesthetic, which means any one of the options will add a lovely splash of colour to your bathroom shelf; then, there’s its non-conventional makeup (which comprises a luscious, moisturising paste that uses ingredients such as shea butter and calendula oil) that means users have to apply the product directly to the skin, adding a tactile feel to your daily grooming routine; and, finishing things off is the premium fragrance – here, we’ve highlighted Columbia Road (amber, tonka and violet) and the citrus-forward Orange Grove (mandarin, neroli and petitgrain). Despite the thick feel of the product, it doesn’t leave behind stains and will last approximately two to three months.
Salt Grooming, Marine Mist
For many, a grooming refresh will likely incorporate a new hairstyle or, at the minimum, a tidy up. To revive your locks and keep them in shape, we’d position you towards Salt Grooming, a premium indie label that draws upon natural, organic ingredients sourced from around the world. A favourite of ours is the brand’s Marine Mist, a sea-salt spray – use it as a pre-styler, finishing item, or styling product in its own right – that has the feel of a thickener and provides boost and texture. It’s an ideal item when aiming for an easy, breezy appearance.
Floris, Bergamotto di Positano Eau de Parfum
Like gastronomy or sartorial choices, your fragrance, too, should change with the flavours of the moment – so, with growth and renewed vitality the order of the day, leave those woody and smokey scents for later this year and pick up something more refreshing and lighter. Here, we have Floris’s classic Bergamotto di Positano Eau de Parfum, a sweet harmony of mandarin, orange blossom, and a wisp of smooth vanilla, all of which come together to take your mind to the Italian coastline.
Heath, Beard Oil
And, finally, now that the masses are flocking outdoors once again, those with beards should be looking to keep their fuzz in check. Formulated with avocado and jojoba oils, this slick, by Heath, is designed to tame and neaten up your facial hair by adding shine and injecting hydration – meanwhile, the use of salicylic acid allows for deep hair-follicle exfoliation, which minimises the risk of trapping hair.
Want more grooming content? These are the best spa treatments for a spring/summer reset…
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