Reliable options for men’s skincare are limited. So many brands focus on the masculinity of their products rather than the ingredients that go into them or the practicality of using them. This is what Above & Below has gotten right. The brand, by Gbenda-Charles, is a single-source men’s skincare line that uses organic ingredients, and they strive to provide high quality products with an extraordinary simplicity. Butcher & Butcher worked closely with the brand to develop the packaging and brand story.

“[The process] began with the brand name itself, with Above & Below reflecting the top-to-toe benefit of the product. The Above & Below name also represents the Northern and Southern hemispheres, tying in promotion of the product as a multi-use solution for frequent travellers and adventurers. The visual story of the two hemispheres was subsequently carried through to the package design and iconography.”

“The final packaging concept also spoke to the product source and ethos, with the inclusion of practical touches that would encourage re-use. The original product is housed in a 50ml dark green glass bottle, which adheres to carry-on restrictions while also protecting the product from prolonged light exposure. Key considerations of sustainability and travel-friendliness were further answered with the inclusion of a refill pack; a flat-lay, compostable pouch designed to be gently heated in warm water, allowing the fresh product to then be poured into the original glass packaging.”