This article explores the diverse hand soap preferences of GQ staff members, showcasing a range of products from high-end, aromatic selections to practical, environmentally conscious choices. It highlights how personal style and values influence these grooming decisions, emphasizing scent, texture, brand ethics, and overall user experience as key factors in their selections.
Tyler Chin, GQ's Associate Wellness & Grooming Editor, enthusiastically endorses Nonfiction Santal Cream Hand Wash. He discovered the brand through friends who praised it as the "Korean Aesop" during their visits to Seoul. When Nonfiction launched its first U.S. location in New York City, Chin was eager to try it. He particularly appreciates the Santal Cream scent, which features notes of sandalwood, vetiver, and cinnamon, describing the hand-washing experience as an "absolute pleasure." He noted that guests often inquire about the brand, quickly becoming as fond of it as he is, indicating its growing popularity and unique appeal. This choice underscores a preference for sophisticated, niche brands with a strong sensory impact.
Nick Collett, the Director of Creative, is a fan of Dulcie Bladderwrack + Fennel Hand Wash. His journey to this particular soap began in a London restaurant, where the captivating scent of the hand soap in the restroom left a lasting impression on everyone who used it. Inspired by its unique aroma, he immediately purchased a bottle. Collett describes the scent as mineral-rich, herbaceous, and reminiscent of the sea, attributing this to bladderwrack (a type of seaweed) and the soap's origin in the English seaside town of Margate. Beyond its fragrance, he values Dulcie's commitment to ethical practices, as it is a certified B-Corp dedicated to community engagement and sustainability. This choice reflects a desire for products that are both luxurious and responsible.
Mari Herrema, the Marketing and Production Manager, prefers Cow Brand Foaming Hand Soap, a staple from Japanese drugstores. Following her environmentally conscious father's advice to shop locally, she discovered this product in an Asian market. What draws Herrema to this soap are two primary characteristics: its texture and its subtle scent. The soap produces exceptionally fine bubbles, feeling more like a facial cleanser than a typical hand soap, providing a gentle yet effective cleanse without stripping the skin. Moreover, its nearly scentless quality is ideal for those with fragrance sensitivities or for individuals who prefer their other fragrances, such as perfumes, to remain distinct and uncompeting.
Michael Nolledo, the Commerce Director, opts for the traditional charm of solid bar soap, specifically the Flamingo Estate Jasmine Damask Rose Soap Brick. His household consistently features this substantial bar resting in a vintage ceramic shell dish by the bathroom sink. He appreciates its satisfying weight and rich lather. While the scent is floral, Nolledo is particularly drawn to a unique honey undertone present in many Flamingo Estate products, a signature element that resonates with him. He also integrates the brand's Manuka Rich Cream into his routine, finding that the two products complement each other perfectly, creating a cohesive and indulgent experience.
Mick Rouse, Global Research Director, champions Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash, acknowledging its widespread popularity while asserting its enduring quality. He believes that despite its ubiquity, this soap remains exceptional. Rouse highlights the bottle's elegant design, which seamlessly blends into any bathroom aesthetic, as a significant advantage. Furthermore, he praises its fragrance as one of the best available in hand soaps, expressing a desire for Aesop to release a body wash in the same captivating scent. His choice underscores a preference for well-designed, highly effective, and aromatically pleasing products that withstand trends.
Alyssa Bereznak, the Wellness and Grooming Director, shares her affinity for Flamingo Estate Rosemary Clary Sage Glass Hand Soap. Her connection to this product dates back to the pandemic, when Flamingo Estate expanded its offerings from fresh produce to bath items. She was immediately captivated by its herbaceous aroma, which she feels embodies the vibrant plant life and agricultural potential of Los Angeles. Using this soap often leads her to daydream about gardening, reflecting a deep connection to its natural essence. The brand's growth has allowed for an upgrade from aluminum to a substantial deep-green molded glass container, adding a touch of luxury perfect for a high-traffic guest bathroom.
Jordan Bowman, Commerce Editor, maintains a practical and consistent approach, favoring Mrs. Meyer's Lemon Verbena hand soap. He adheres to the philosophy of not changing what works, preferring this reliable and accessible option over more expensive alternatives. Bowman notes that while Mrs. Meyer's may not be considered a top-tier luxury soap, it performs effectively and is conveniently available at major retailers like Costco, where he often buys it in multi-packs. He appreciates the distinct and refreshing scents of Lemon Verbena and Rain Water, which have become his signature. He emphasizes transferring the soap into a reusable dispenser, aligning with environmental values, allowing its effective cleaning and pleasant fragrance to speak for themselves.
Ultimately, the hand soap selections of GQ staffers reveal a blend of personal taste, luxury preferences, and practical considerations, ranging from unique aromatic experiences and sustainable brands to reliable and accessible options. Each choice reflects a thoughtful approach to daily grooming, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.