D. R. Harris, a very well kept secret

11/09/2010

D. R. Harris, a very well kept secret

Today you will have access to one of the most well kept secrets between the true ladies and gentlemen of London. We will take you to a shop where some of the nobles of the British crown, Ambassadors and Statesmen buy their health and beauty products: the pharmacy D. R. Harris.

Not far from Buckingham Palace and very close to the gentlemen’s Mecca – Jermyn Street – this shop is the perfect example of longevity. Operating since 1790, the shop is completing 220 years this year and it’s considered the oldest chemist in London.

But what is so special about them? Let’s start with the shop itself: a charming and austere environment decorated with unique Victorian furniture and wooden displays that confirm why they are so exclusive and proudly discreet. They prefer to keep the identities of their discerning clientele in secret.

D. R. Harris is more than a regular pharmacy because it offers not only a wide selection of medicines, but also hand-made colognes and skincare products developed by themselves. Shaving creams, soothing post-shave balms, toothbrushes, sponges, powders, bathing essences, soaps, etc, are available in therapeutic scents and are bottled in packages with a vintage aesthetic.

Since the beginning their reputation is to work very well with the senses. They became known by their Lavender Water, Classic Cologne and English Flower perfumes. Nowadays, two of the favourites are Arlington and Marlborough notes represented in a diverse range of products.

I’m getting used to say that one of the little self-indulgences a gentleman should experiment is a exfoliating cream. You don’t need anything else if you want to revitalise your skin quickly and let it nourished. D. R. Harris offers a very good one. If you want to go further, why not try the Rose Shaving Cream? After all what could be classier than a shaving cream with roses on the composition? If you are into organic products, you should also experiment the Naturals range, created entirely from natural ingredients.

Not in London? No problem. Their on-line store offers the full range of their products. But attention: unfortunately they don’t ship to South American countries yet. Another option is to enjoy the amenity bag from British Airways first class. Since last year D. R. Harris is working together with the airline to provide luxury to the lucky few.