The Apothecary Malaysia Solid Cologne Review

Previously we have reviewed the Analogue Paste by folks from The Apothecary Malaysia, The Oven and Mentega Pomade. Today, we had the privilege to introduce some very unique range of scents for the gentlemen – The Apothecary Malaysia Solid Cologne.

The Apothecary Malaysia – the word Apothecary is a term for a medical professional during the ancient days, who formulates and dispense the knowledge used for healing. This word was chosen as the brand name to continue the tradition of formulating products but with modern applications.

Founded by Mr. Adrian Cheong in 2015, this product was inspired when he stumbled across solid perfumes while traveling and the passion to always create something with his own hands. After through many trials and errors, and sourcing materials locally, he has successfully launched a range of solid colognes with 3 different scents and now 8 in total. But what are solid colognes actually?

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What is Solid Cologne?

Solid colognes are wax-based fragrance instead of the usual liquid-based. It was started by the ancient Egyptians but today we are seeing the rise of it again. It can be made from either natural ingredients (from Shea butters, fruit oils, and beeswax) or Synthetic (formulated and created by the chemist). It either case they are safe to use.

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Origin

Malaysia

Types

Solid Cologne

Design and Packaging

Every scent has its own design and identity. The cologne is housed in a beautifully designed box. By just sliding the box out, you will find the solid cologne is properly placed in a cushion sponge to prevent from any dent during transportation.

The cologne itself is housed in a metal tin with the logo embossed on the surface for better grip during open and close. Some tins are coated with glossy colour, while the rest were matte. Underneath, you will see a printed craft paper label that describes the scent of the cologne.

Because of its small size, I could easily bring every where and fits nicely into any pockets. Definitely it is TSA0 friendly and you could pack it in your carry on luggage.

Overall, it was a very well done packaging, not only artistic and practical. Thumbs up to product’s user experience.

Application: How to Use The Apothecary Malaysia Solid Cologne

Sliding out the cover was easy with good friction. Use a finger to swipe out some of the cologne. Rub it a little to generate some heat, then rub on on wrist, neck and behind your ears.

It does not feel sticky and its scent is not overwhelming. Just the right amount of fresh scent is needed. It last around 5 – 6 hours, but since it’s so easy to carry around, you can re-apply anytime!

Scent and Usage Review

Each of the colognes has different scent and suitable for different occasion or personality. Some might be good for office use and some might be for dates or evening events. Let’s go through all latest 5 scents produced by the Apothecary Malaysia.

The Colossus Solid Cologne

Fragrance: Colossus- Nepoli, Citrus, Peach, Nutmeg, Amber, Musk, Sandalwood, Cedarwood

Top Note: Citrus, Amber and Musk

Mid Note: Nutmeg

Base Note: Woody

Review: This is my top favourite scent as it provides just the right amount of refreshing citrus fragrant but with a slight hint of sweetness. The scent is well balanced, not too masculine or feminine. It does makes me feel more relax. Great use for your day to day professional work.

The Omni Solid Cologne

Fragrance: Bergamot, Basil, Peppermint, Benzoin, Blackcurrant, Leather, Rose, Birch, Vetiver, Cedar wood, Sandalwood, Guaiac Wood

Top Note: Velvety Dark Berries of Juniper, Blackcurrant

Mid Note: Leather, Rose

Base Note: Wood, Tobacco, Vetiver

Review: Similar to the Analogue Paste scent (Hair Paste), this does have a combination of floral, fruity and the masculine tobacco fragrant. Slightly sweeter than the Colossus Solid Cologne. Great use during the evening events or dates.

The Khan Solid Cologne

Fragrance: Orange, Bergamot, Mahogany, Pine, Juniper, Berries, Cinnamon, Vetiver, Oakmoss, Sandalwood

Top Note: Vetiver, Mahogany

Middle Note: Pine and Orange

Base: Woody, Citrusy

Review: This is a bold, spicy and citrusy cologne. Never experienced such scent before and it is very unique to its own. Definitely stands out among the rest for its scent. It is for the brave soul, a fighter, and hustler.

The Cleopatra Solid Cologne

Fragrance: Mandarin, Cactus, Flower, Freesia, Gardenia, Lily of the Valley, Golden Sandalwood

Top Note: Light Citrusy Mandarin

Middle Note: Gardenia

Base Note: Freesia, Lily of the Valley, Golden Sandalwood

Review: Among all, this is the most feminine ones but well-balanced. It is not your typical masculine, oak and woody kind. It bring out the freshness of citrusy floral scent with some sweetness, yet maintain a good base of Sandalwood. If you are going on a classy date, this might be one of the best bet!

The Admiral Solid Cologne

Fragrance: Green Mandarin, Ginger, Magnolia, Dill, Nutmeg, Pepper, Grey Musk, Tonka Beans, Cedar wood

Top Note: Magnolia, Dill

Middle Note: Cut Grass, Pepper, Grey Musk

Base Note: Musk

Review: If you a nature lover and appreciate a fresh chlorophyll like scent, this is for you. It has a good combination with a smell of the ocean with a hint of spicy pepper as well. Definitely another rare scent that you won’t be able to find easily on shelves. My girlfriend said it was the best, how about yours?

Verdict

The Apothecary Malaysia Solid Cologne range is definitely different from your conventional liquid based and off from the shelf types – Georgia Armani, Channel, Tom Ford, Dior..etc.

I would classified these as boutique colognes, made by craftsmen based on individual creativity and taste. If you wouldn’t want to smell or appear to be like everyone else, solid colognes from the Apothecary Malaysia is a good start. Of course, I hope they will continue to expand to more variety of scent in their future launches. Why these solid colognes works for me because it is not overwhelming, doesn’t smells bad if I happen to perspire, and it is very functional – easy to carry and apply.

My personal favourite – The Colossus Cologne.