If we had to describe Glasshouse’s ethos, we would probably have two important focal points. The first would be our commitment to sustainable, organic and cruelty free hair and beauty. The second? Our love of our East London home, and the inspiring creatives we share it with.
For these reasons, we can’t think of a more perfect collaborator than Guy Morgan Apothecary. We have been admirers of the Apothecary for a while now, and began formally working with Guy in June 2015. He began conjuring up his relaxation and skincare magic from a workshop in Clapton after feeling let down by the existing market. “The Apothecary started out from a personal need of effective skincare that also satisfied my passion for natural and ethically-produced products,” he says. “I was inspired to create my line of water-activated clay masks after trying numerous off-the-shelf products developed to address specific skincare concerns, and not being impressed with the results.”
As one of the original stockists of Guy Morgan Apothecary both in the salon and online, we’re very pleased that Guy was so inspired - his brand of natural, expertly-formulated skincare is right up our street. We’re also pleased to report that it’s as effective as it is ethical (debunking the often-cited myth that skincare which is labelled as natural is somehow less effective than chemical-based competitors). The Black Thorn Facial Oil in particular has been a hugely popular product, due mostly to its versatility - it protects from sun and environmental damage, whilst also reducing the appearance of fine lines and combatting blemishes. So we’re delighted to be introducing another of Guy’s oils to our shelves, this time for hair and nails, as well as an innovative clay mask trilogy designed to address a number of skin issues.
Salem Rose Hair and Nail Oil
Each Guy Morgan oil is really an oil blend, with ingredients to challenge a wide variety of concerns. The newest oil in the range, Salem Rose Hair and Nail Oil, can be used as an all-over hand care oil. Guy uses it as part of his own routine: “I apply five drops to the back of my hand, and rub the backs of my hands together to avoid oily palms. I then work in the oil around the surrounding skin of my nail beds to combat dry skin and encourage healthy nail growth”. However it also works well when applied to damp hair, and massaged into the scalp. It can be used on facial hair too, and helps to maintain well-groomed beards and moustaches, whilst constantly promoting new growth.
Clay Mask Trilogy
The clay masks are a true skincare innovation, with each different mask designed with a different skincare need in mind. The clays are formulated to each perform a specific function; exfoliating, hydrating and purifying skin which results in a healthier and clearer looking complexion.
White Marble Clay Mask
The first of the three masks, White Marble Clay, focuses on exfoliation and brightening and features a gentle mixture of marble and pumice powder. This mask is also particularly effective in combating acne - “Organic powdered neem leaf regulates skin’s oil production and therefore helps to prevent infections leading to acne. Rhassoul clay reduces dryness and flakiness in skin, improving overall clarity and again, fighting acne,” Guy explains.
Himalayan Salt Clay Mask
Second up is Himalayan Salt Clay mask, a hydration product with some anti-ageing properties. The French red clay in this solution has a high proportion of iron oxide which aids skin cell renewal eventually resulting in firmer skin and removing toxins along the way.
Midnight Black Clay Mask
Finally, there’s the Midnight Black Clay Mask, which works to purify the skin. Guy advises that here, “Organic white turmeric powder acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, whilst organic activated coconut charcoal draws out impurities and toxins from your skin”. And whilst each mask is designed for a different outcome, Guy thinks that they work best when used as a full skincare regime: “A lot of consideration and detailed research was put into the recommended order for the clays to be used in. I believe they work really well individually, but they become more effective when used as a routine, as they work in tandem, playing on each other’s strengths, and addressing common issues your skin may need help in.”
It seems that Guy’s range is going from strength to strength, and we’re particularly excited to be stocking these new products. What’s next for Guy Morgan Apothecary? We hear there are plans for more travel-friendly versions of existing products in the pipeline: “So far I feel like my line has been great for use at home, but I’d like to make it more functional for use on the go. I’m currently developing creamy balm versions of my Black Thorn Facial Oil and Salem Rose Hair and Nail Oil. There will have the same great properties of the oils, but with the benefit of being easier to carry and apply,” Guy enthuses. If the new balms are anything like the thoughtful, unique products we’ve come to expect from Clapton’s premier purveyor of natural skincare, we think they’ll be very special indeed.
Words by Lauren O’Neill