SCENTS AND SENSIBILITY

The most recherche of fragrances never fails to leave an enduring, sometimes alluring impression while a self-care regimen and other fixings keep us looking sharp and charged around the clock.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Thanks to luxury chains, fragrance ateliers and niche outfits, looking and feeling amazing are about a lot more than just facial wash and gel.

Take amaroud parfums. although the amaroud elixir collection was first dreamed up in 2016, these exquisite scents are a culmination of five decades of olfactory experience at the perfumers Workshop. Best known for transforming natural ingredients into aromas that capture tranquillity and passion in their purest form, the brand’s amouroud elixir collection condenses purity and rarity into three unforgettable unisex fragrance statements.

To start, the earthy notes of Indian agarwood mingle with Madagascan vanilla, guaiacwood and patchouli orris in the warm, glowing scent of Golden Oud.

The amative rose – a la Damascus, Bulgaria and tibet – coalesces beautifully in the seductive Mysterious Rose that promises to titillate and excite.

And Noir Illumine juxtaposes haunting darkness with sultry brilliance. Its top notes include black plum, ginger and cinnamon. At its heart are tuberose, carnation, egyptian jasmine and passion flower. Base notes include dark chocolate, black vetiver and sandalwood.

Available at Escentials Ion. #03-27 Ion Orchard. Tel: 6219-4792 
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LOVE IN A BOTTLE
(clockwise from right) Mysterious Rose, Golden Oud and Noir Illumine offer a little something for everyone.
 
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GIVING SKIN A FIGHTING CHANCE

When it comes to staying healthy, men love to talk about fitness and eating right. Skincare? Well, if you’re not taking care of your face, it doesn’t matter how nice your clothes! Estee Lauder’s been trying to teach us this since 1987, and its new Lab Series Max LS range takes the self-care regimen to the next level. Start your morning with Daily Renewing Cleanser to purge your skin of grime without drying it out. Recharging Lotion keeps your face supple and moist. Finally, all the lifting required is taken care of by salves that fight against time and gravity by minimising loose skin and wrinkles.

Available at Lab Series, #02-28 Metro Paragon. Tel: 6733-9015 
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ClASSY MATTE FINISH

Morris Motley , cult Aussie grooming company brings its styling A-game with Matte Styling Balm. Founder Rob Mason uses 14 years of experience and raw Australian botanicals to create minimalist hair products that do exactly what they say. Like its predecessor, the vaunted Treatment Styling Balm, this one promises a strong, supple hold with a classy matte finish that lasts the day (and night). It’s easy to apply and easier to wash off. Also, since it is sulphate- and paraben-free, your precious locks won’t lose any of their sheen or pliability.

Available at morrismotley.sg
 
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LOCAL REDOLENCE

Homegrown beauty brand Spa Esprit has collaborated with local distillery Compendium to create a shower gel that celebrates the medley of aromas, smells and scent Singaporeans know and love. The Gin and Detox Plantation Shower Gel draws inspiration from Rojak Gin, Compendium’s flagship firewater. Its three key ingredients – juniper berries, lemon peel and torch ginger– feature heavily in the 250 bottles of shower gel produced. Note to user: torch ginger doesn’t just smell good. In essential oil form, it’s renowned for treating digestive ailments and boosting circulation. Perfect for washing away your worries. Even better, a complimentary bottle of the silky smooth Rojak Gin comes with every purchase of the shower gel – while stocks last.

Available at Spa Espirit, #03-19 Wheelock Place. Tel: 6479-0070

TEXT ALVIN LIM