THERE’S nothing quite like giving yourself the gift of something you really want, something you may have no practical need for but just plain out-and-out desire. It’s not materialistic to surround yourselves with items that you love, it’s a form of self-care, and after the absolute searing mess of a year that was 2020 I’m heading into 2021 with a renewed focus on the things, big and small, that add a spring to my step and a light to my life.
From the pocket-friendly to the lavishly extravagant, these five options are guaranteed to ease your annual transition into this brave new world, even if just for a little bit. So go forth and enjoy your gift from you, with love, to you.
Daimon Barber, Deluxe Skincare Bundle
Deluxe Skincare Bundle, £94.50
Skincare is a huge part of my life. The twice-daily ritual of cleansing, revitalising and renewing my complexion has brought me countless moments of happiness and a hobby with which I eagerly dive into. However, I do understand that for many gents it’s simply a matter of washing and restoring one’s face in the most efficient manner possible. Daimon Barber is a nice middle ground of the two opposing standpoints. Simple enough to easily decipher product names, the range offers hair and skin care for men that is at once effective, efficient and also pleasing to use.
Neatly packaged into the Deluxe Skincare Bundle is the Exfoliating Cleanser, Revitalising Eye Formula, Day and Night Face Serum and Revitalising Moisturiser. Step one works to cleanse, resurface and lift facial hair, preparing the skin for shaving; step two brightens and tightens the under-eye area for a fresh-faced appearance; step three uses Symrepair and ceramides to moisturise and protect the skins natural barrier; step four works to lock it all in, hydrating the skin and soothing it with propolis extract, murumuru butter and more.
Boy Smells, De Nîmes candle
I have a bit of an obsession (some would say problem) with buying scented candles. I like to feel at all times like I am in the cosiest environment possible, which I believe is most easily achieved by allowing a comforting scent to fill whichever room you happen to be encamped in at the time. I have many favourites from brands aplenty, but Boy Smells stuck out to me for their attention-grabbing name, no doubt intentional on their part. De Nîmes is my chosen scent from the brand, coming out of their Rituals collection.
Directly inspired by the French city of Nîmes, notes of almond, rhubarb, violet, ambergris, blueberry and juniper intermingle to evoke the sense of French indigo, fitting as denim workwear was first produced in Nîmes hundreds of years ago. There’s a scent for everyone – this just happens to be my favourite – and I’m rather fond of their ombre jars and brassy gold detailing as well. Like only the best-packaged candles, these live on in my home long after they finish burning.
La Prairie, Platinum Rare Haute-Rejenvation Cream
Platinum Rare Haute-Rejenvation Cream, £1238 for 50ml
Anyone familiar with my writing at Glass will I’m sure by now be well versed with my affinity for all things La Prairie. The Swiss skincare brand has long epitomised the height of luxury, and their recently relaunched Platinum Rare Haute-Rejenvation Cream is no exception. I want to be clear here – you do not need to spend this much money for an effective moisturiser. Should you happen to have the cash sitting idly by, however, there are few things you could invest in that will serve you better than your skin.
Part of the relaunch is the addition of the new Platinum Multi-Peptide, a tri-peptide complex attached to platinum particles designed to trigger rejuvenating activities. Beyond how well it performs, it’s a thing of beauty and a joy to behold as well as use – mine sits proudly on my bedside table. You need only the tiniest amount, rich as it is, and it adds an undeniable element of luxury and indulgence to your skincare routine every time you sweep it on.
Gingerlily Man, Mulberry Silk Pillowcase in Ivory
Mulberry Silk Pillowcase in Ivory, £60
Silk pillowcases are one of those internet-hyped beauty-adjacent products that I’ve seen around for the longest time but never felt justified to take the plunge on and splash the cash. Now I have tried Gingerlily Man’s Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, I can confirm that I am never, EVER going back. You will have to pry this luxuriously soft, 100% mulberry silk, 19 momme pillowcase from my cold, dead hands before I would even think about returning to cotton. In short, it’s just not going to happen.
For £60 I understand why many would be hesitant – I certainly was – but if it makes you feel any better, you really only need one, or two at most if you can’t bear the thought of being without it in between washes. Of course, if you did want to go all out and replace your entire pillowcase set with these lavish beauties, I can wholeheartedly endorse this endeavour, whilst looking on in jealous admiration. For right now I’m happy sticking to just the one, but I see many more to come in my future.
Typology, Personalised Skincare Routine
Typology skincare, personalised routine subject to price
Typology intrigued me for many reasons, not least because of its apothecary-style unique packaging or its basis in France, where the products are produced. No, Typology intrigued me most because of its intelligent personalised diagnostic service paired with its affordability and ease of access. I’ve been trialling the brand for a while now after filling out my diagnostic (and altering a few of the picks to my personal preference, I’ll admit) and so far, I’m in love.
Amongst the highlights, I’ve been absolutely loving the 7-Ingredient Cleansing Oil. Literally seven ingredients, a mixture of oils including sweet almond, sunflower seed and vitamin E oil soothe and protect the skin whilst dissolving sunscreen, sweat, makeup and grime alike with ease. Plus, it emulsifies off easily with no fuss, a must for any cleansing oil or balm.
The brand’s Radiance Serum 11% Vitamin C and Exfoliating Serum 10% Glycolic Acid are also well formulated and great for sensitive skin, and the option of smaller 15ml sizes is great for when you want to have a trial run and see what works best for your skin.
by Thomas Marrington