The notion of there being an evident growth in the idea of the Modern Gentleman – who is at liberty to care about how he looks after himself, is certainly no big discovery. You would, literally have had to been sharing a cave with Nick Brody and Osama Bin Laden not to have noticed the re-birth and Big Bang in male grooming, particularly over the last five years. In simple terms, you no longer have to be a Geography teacher, wizard or member of ZZ Top to have a beard. I mean dear God even, Superheroes, news readers & members of the royal family are sporting extensive facial hair.
To match this masculine trend we’ve equally seen an explosion in more boutique, artisan grooming ranges for a more discerning customer. One in question is Ruffians, a brand whose first barber shop launched in Edinburgh in 2012, and it has won the Best Independent, Best Newcomer and Best Designed Salon at the British Hairdressing Business Awards. It also won Best New Salon at the prestigious Creative Head Awards. Ruffians pride themselves on their outstanding customer experience, innovative design and of course blooming decent haircut and shave, and in a move William Wallis, himself would be proud of, is open now at 27 Maiden Lane in Covent Garden, London.
On top of this Scottish invasion, the brand are passionate about their grooming range and how they are made in small batches rather than mass-produced. They are formulated by Ruffians and based on the real feedback they get through their barber shops. Founder of Ruffians, Andrew Cannon, started with a blank piece of paper and created a range geared specifically for men’s hair and skin type. They stay clear of all the nastiness like sulphates, colourants, parabens, animal testing and have a very natural and effective range.
Key products within the range include the Rough Matt Clay, this promises to thickens, texturizes and increases fullness of hair. Natural clays kaolin and illite add fine particles that help thicken the hair appearance and prevent build-up of excess oils. The Sandalwood Shave gel which uses Positive ionic molecules bind to the negatively charged hair shaft and lift it, allowing the razor to glide right to the base of stubble, reducing hair dragging or snagging and sandalwood oil lubricates the skin and is a natural antiseptic contains healing properties. Lastly, the signature Ruffians fragrances, in hand-crafted hip-flask bottles and luxury whisky-style cases. Firstly, RUFFIANS ONE, which is a deep, classic masculine scent, suitable for everyday wear and formal occasions And RUFFIANS TWO, is a contemporary, fresh and sporty fragrance, perfect for a signature scent and promises a distinct night-time confidence.
