Style
Grey Matter: Eight Rakish Grooming Staples
We urge you to embrace whatever age and stage you and your hair are at – and propose eight of the most luxurious products to help you look your best doing it.
Words Anna Prendergast
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Lock Stock & Barrell Reconstruct Protein Shampoo,
The science behind the sales pitch is clear – ageing hair naturally begins to thin and become more brittle, damaging more easily and resulting in an all round less shiny, healthy head of hair. Lock Stock & Barrel – as the name would suggest – provides a comprehensive range of high performance products to help combat men’s grooming concerns. The Reconstruct Protein Shampoo not only offers an effective cleanse, but the unique protein-rich formula penetrates the hair cuticle and scalp, building strength, and Vitamin B5 boosts volume, so your hair feels thicker and healthier. Even better, LS&B creates conscientious products that are as good for the environment as they are for you hair. The generous litre bottle is super long lasting and really does do what it says on the tin. £22.95, www.mankind.co.uk.
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Philip Kingsley Pure Silver Conditioner
Greying hair can easily discolour, losing its lustre and strength. Philip Kingsley’s Pure Silver Conditioner is designed specifically to overcome this sad state of affairs with violet hues and optical brighteners; violet balances out any yellow discolouration and the hair becomes visibly brighter and glossier as a result. The luxurious lavender scent is fragrant without being overpowering, with the added bonus of being renowned for its calming effects. Wheat protein reduces static and improves the overall condition; a quick wash can leave you feeling as fresh as a visit to the barber. The man behind the make, Philip Kingsley, is an expert in trichology and has successfully bridged the gap between science and hair for over 40 years. £21.00, www.philipkingsley.co.uk.
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Acqua di Parma Shaving Brush
Acqua di Parma’s Collezione Barbiere revisits the traditional art of shaving that is so highly valued in Italian culture. A time-honoured ritual that’s integral to taking care of oneself, it is essential to get the instruments one uses right for the smoothest and most enjoyable shave. The top quality badger bristles, wenge wood and sleek burnished brass handle are a clear reflection of the craftsmanship and pride taken in producing such beautiful items, paired with an elegant steel stand that makes the experience all the more effortless. The house style that has been so successful over the century-long history of Acqua di Parma, and their commitment to exceptional products is testament to their instinctive design and craft. £218.00, www.acquadiparma.com.
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Floris London No. 89 Shaving Oil
Whether you’ve sported a beard your whole life or are branching out as a result of a new found confidence, it’s imperative to look after your beard (in return, it will likely look after you back – you can thank it when you’re fighting off modelling contracts and Amazonian princesses). Floris’ shaving oil ticks all the boxes, protecting skin before and during a shave, as well as conditioning and strengthening the beard during growth. A multitasking product if ever there was one, the silky formula (infused with British blackcurrant, rapeseed and vitamin E to soften both hair and skin) balances Floris’ divine signature No. 89 scent with a product that is fuss-free and versatile. £25.00, www.florislondon.com.
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Murdock Watussi Coarse and Fine Horn Comb
This discreet and double-ended comb is the perfect tool to slide into one’s jacket pocket, document case or travel bag – its unobtrusive size, multifunctional use and classic simplicity will make it the defining feature of many a distinguished chap’s grooming kit; your father’s father’s father will have had one, and they’re still around today for good reason. In elegant horn handcrafted in Germany, the two teeth sizes, with rounded tips for comfort and durability, provides both a wider design for ease of use and a finer side to set your style. If you’re feeling particularly louche, channel a touch of Danny Zuko and you’ll be ready for anything. £40.00, www.murdocklondon.com.
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Clinique Broad Spectrum SPF 21 Moisturiser
Hairless heads inevitably require a different kind of grooming routine, albeit a more straightforward one. Sun protection (SPF 20 at least) is vital in today’s environment, as exposure can do serious lasting damage and have negative effects on both one’s health and appearance. Take care of the most vulnerable part of your body, with Clinique’s SPF 21 Moisturiser, which is light enough to use daily and effective enough that you can apply to your scalp in the morning with no further effort required. While some of our favourite rakes are as bald as it gets, sunburn and sunspots can be unsightly as well as uncomfortable, but they are so easily avoidable with soothing, hydrating creams like Clinique’s; there’s really no excuse. £25.00, www.clinique.co.uk.
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Baxter of California Clay Pomade
Waxes, sprays and putties can often be too heavy for grey or ageing hair, so we recommend a clay-based pomade like Baxter of California’s, as this best-seller is a natural blend of clay and beeswax that provides firm hold and enviable texture without weighing down the strands (which can result in thin hair looking even thinner than usual). The effect of the clay is a subtle matte finish, and scented with sage and citrus, you only need a small amount to keep your style in check, making it as long-lasting as you are. $20.00 www.baxterofcalifornia.com.
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Truefitt & Hill Military Roll Up Wet Pack
Truefitt & Hill, established in 1805, are the world’s oldest barbershop and as a result, know a thing or two about the importance of taking care of oneself. As well as offering a plethora of shaving and grooming products, they know that the modern man on the move needs something beautiful in which to put them. The Military Roll Up Wet Pack is based on the iconic design of the 20th century British Military Officer’s wash bag, and is the gentleman’s answer to a product that is both practical and stylish. With the highest of quality leather and craftsmanship, the pack rolls into a compact size that fits effortlessly into suitcases and travel bags as well as looking unfailingly elegant in one’s bathroom cabinet. Our personal favourite is the forest green, echoing the military heritage of the design. £125.00, www.truefittandhill.co.uk.
ageing, balding, grey hair, grooming, hair loss, Men's Style, products, Style
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