As summer comes to a close, we reckon with the fact that — unless you’re in a beloved film with Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet — sunshine is not eternal. Accordingly, our morning routines look a little different under autumn’s chilled sky; in addition to its early nights, the season of harvest brings a dry breeze that requires a heavy dose of moisturizer. Below, you’ll find a few of our favourite grooming tips for fall, alongside a smattering of top men’s skincare products for the season ahead.
Invest in a Seasonal Scent
While summer scents tend to be bright and breezy — often named for fresh linen or sea salt — autumn embraces a moodier approach: fragrances are smoky and rugged, like a bonfire with tobacco and cedarwood. There’s no need to toss out your favourite cologne each season, however — a new body wash or hand soap will do the job.
For inspiration, we’d suggest exploring the Oud Wood Hand & Body Wash by TOM FORD. Blending oud with notes of sandalwood and amber, the scent radiates refinement without dominating the room. Cast in an understated ash brown, even the bottle oozes elegance.
Ensure Maximum Hydration with Heavy-Duty Moisture
After a brutal August, it’s a stretch to say that we’ll miss the heat and humidity — that said, dry air spares no skin type. Each autumn, natural moisture levels drop with the leaves. To fight off itchy, flaky skin, it’s vital to augment your skincare routine with an extra dose of moisture. Alongside your everyday balm, apply a slick dash of serum to keep your skin feeling fresh. At SHARP, our favourites include the Collage Canvas Hyaluronic Serum: a Canadian-made concoction of green tea extract, witch hazel, and aloe vera (among others). Lightweight and easy-to-use, it’s delightfully no-nonsense.
Fight Under-Eye Bags
As we strive to extend our summer schedule before November’s dreaded time change, late nights abound. Still, if you’re going to enjoy the early-autumn nights, there’s no reason to let your under-eye bags serve as evidence in the morning. Simply dole out a drop or two of Dior Homme Dermo Hydrating Firming Eye Serum, then gently pat the gel directly onto your dark circles. Made with caffeine and sugar, it’s like an early-morning cappuccino for your eye bags — thanks to a thoughtful mix of hydrating and firming ingredients, all signs of fatigue fade away.
Relax Your Muscles Before A Brisk Autumn Run
Self care goes beyond aesthetics. Muscles and tendons tighten in cool weather, meaning that a drop in temperature can lead to that uncomfortable post-workout stiffness. So, if you’re gearing up for a Turkey Trot (or simply continuing your morning jogs), it’s crucial to adapt your routine for stick season.
When it comes to pre-sport preparation, a quick massage works wonders. After your regular warm-up, apply a generous dollop of muscle-relieving lotion. Lotion functions like a foam roller (though it’s an easier fit for your overnight kit): the VITAMAN Desert Muscle Rub is packed with organic aids including aloe leaf, black pepper, and eucalyptus, which ease tension and optimize performance.
Feature photo courtesy of Collage.
