The ritual of readying yourself.
"I live in the American Gardens Building on W. 81st Street on the 11th floor. My name is Patrick Bateman. I'm 27 years old. I believe in taking care of myself and a balanced diet and a rigorous exercise routine…”
The infamous monologue of every gentleman’s favourite delusional psychopath elucidates a degree of intention, a real sense of purpose and belief in one’s self. Admittedly Mr. Bateman has the pathetic intention of murder which he won’t commit but the process of preparation should be considered as a sort of “start as you mean to go on” ritual. Precision, skill, discernment, appreciation and identity are the building blocks of this ritual.
For most men, the daily routine is done quickly and without much thought. However, taking the time to prepare oneself with quality grooming products can transform this mundane task into a luxurious experience. Imagine a brooding American voice and allow me to indulge you in my routine:
“I live in Fulham, Chelsea by the River, SW6. My Name is Aaron McFeely. I am 36 years old. I believe in taking care of myself, a balanced protein rich diet and a rigorous exercise routine.
In the morning if my face is a little puffy, I’ll use an ice roller to reduce inflammation before doing squats and pushups. I can do 250 now.
I use a towel soaked in hot water to massage my neck and beard opening up the hair follicles and pores. Then I apply a shaving foam from Aqua di Parma to the neck area. Holding the skin taut I use the corners of the jawbone to act as a guide to shave in a line under the jaw at the top of the neck. I have a limited edition all black Gillette Fusion 5 razor from a Hypebeast collaboration. A clean line under the jaw defines the face. I repeat the process on my cheeks removing any unwanted strays between the corner of the mouth and the temple while keeping a natural line. For this I use a clear King C. Gillette shaving gel as the transparent formula prevents any shaping mishaps.
After, I use a micellar water toner to cleanse my skin, but I only do this once a week as I believe in maintaining the skins natural oils, a privilege of not having to wear make up as a male.
In the shower I use the Aēsop geranium leaf body cleanser, if I am preparing for an evening, Cremo Palo Santo Reserve Collection. I use warm water to gently cleanse my face as many soaps break down your lipid barrier and can cause further problems. While my skin is still damp I apply a layer of hyaluronic acid from The Ordinary. As this absorbs I use Acqua di Parma’s Essenza aftershave balm on my neck to layer up my fragrance for the day. I then wash the balm from my hands and apply Eucerin Oil Control Sun Gel Cream SPF 50+, an anti ageing eye moisturising serum then a replenishing rich moisturiser from Simple and a final layer of Indeed Labs Nano Blur.”
Beyond the products, I recommend purchasing a whisky decanter and a glass which you enjoy drinking from and using it to ensure your water levels are being topped up frequently. Try drinking 2 litres of water a day for two weeks and I promise you will notice the greatest improvement to the overall quality of your skin.
As for brands which strike chords of both quality and luxury look to Truefitt & Hill, Czech & Speake, and Acqua di Parma.
Truefitt & Hill is a Royally appointed British brand that has been crafting fine grooming products for over 200 years from their Jermyn St. establishment. Their shaving cream is a top pick among many grooming experts.
Czech & Speake is another high-end brand that offers a range of shaving products that are both luxurious and effective. Their Neroli range is one of the best of its kind.
Finally, Acqua di Parma is an Italian brand that has been producing luxury fragrances and grooming products since 1916. Their Collezione Barbiere range is a favourite of classic luxury lovers, thanks to its rich lather and subtle citrus scent. The range can be experienced in their barberie in Selfridges or purchased for the comfort of your own home.
Taking the time to create a luxurious ritual can be a game-changer in terms of confidence and identity, you do it for you. It’s your Iron Man suit up moment. Your style does not start when you get dressed, it begins with how you feel. By investing in quality products, robes, hydration, (perhaps swapping your water for a little whisky in the evenings) and making your ritual consistent, you can transform a mundane task into a daily indulgence.
