Solstice Aftershave Cologne | The Soul of the Desert

Scent Profile: Sage, Sweetgrass, Cedar, Rose Absolute and Benzoin Resin

Solstice is a very magical, contemplative blend of aromatics, by default adding more street cred to the "Ceremony" of Wet Shaving. A real aid in turning your shave den into a truly sacred space.

Note: The artwork was inspired by Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona, known as The Vortex to some.

Having spent much time in Sedona, I can testify there is a certain vibe there, possibly just a by-product of the overwhelming natural beauty and the ancient, majestic rock formations. Being a special place for the Native Americans and their ancestors before them this seemed the perfect place to pay tribute to in the design.

While there I picked the brains of certain individuals on the traditional uses of such herbs and resins, truly fascinating stuff whether or not you subscribe to all the mystical woo woo.

"It IS one of the most epic scents. What a fantastic line!" ~Rodrigo Zedán, Paragon Shaving

SAGE - The word sage or salvia comes from the Latin word salvare, which means "To Heal.” Sage has long been used in “smudging” ceremonies to promote purification, protection, and longevity.

Desert Sage or White Sage is one of the most sacred herbs among Native Americans used to purify the mind, body and spirit before prayer, meditation, ritual or ceremony and to purify sacred items such as pipes, bowls, and eagle feathers. The scent of desert sage is somewhat sharp, clean, light and refreshing.

Cedar was offered to the fire to smudge the sweat lodge and people. 

Sweetgrass is excellent for centering ourselves. Sweetgrass is a rare grass which is found growing wild in very few places; Sweet grass grows high in the Rocky Mountains. It is said this grass never dies. It is one of those great smells reminding us of the mountains and open air.  

BENZOIN GUM RESIN was used for purification and prosperity. Often used as a base for incense blends. 

Sage, Sweetgrass, Cedar, Rose Absolute and Benzoin Resin, a mystical power-pack for sure. Similar concoctions have been used universally across the globe in many a religious rite, purification, temple and church alike. At the end of the day us humans are really not so different.

Other Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Liquid Silk, White Sage Hydrosol, Rose Water, Peppermint Hydrosol, White Sage Hydrosol, Aloe Vera