Christopher Hanlon is an Australian perfume and skincare house from Sydney. The brand is known for scents with rare Australian botanical notes, for skincare from its own CH Laboratories and for an aesthetic between craftsmanship and luxury. At Baycan Luxury, Christopher Hanlon is one of our most important brands – here's an introduction.
From market stall to perfume house
According to the brand, it all began in 1994 with Silver Penny: Christopher Hanlon created the scent for personal use while a design student. In the '90s it was sold mainly in Sydney's inner-city neighbourhoods – the CBD, Surry Hills, Kings Cross, Darlinghurst and Paddington. The first shop was a market stall at Paddington Markets. Silver Penny remains one of the house's best-known scents today: Silver Penny Parfum.
The brand also refers to the Hanlon family's Australian heritage dating back to 1875 – reflected in scent names such as Kings Cross Christal 1875.
Scents with an Australian soul
Typical of Christopher Hanlon are notes rarely found in perfumery: banksia blossom, pink rock lily, bush potato, desert lime or Western Australian sandalwood. According to the brand, all scents come from a single perfumer and follow their own fragrance language. A few examples:
- Royal Banksia – floral, with Australian banksia, honey grevillea, tuberose and fresh citrus notes.
- Black Jasmine Rose – opulent, with jasmine, rose, banksia, oud and Western Australian sandalwood.
- Outback Sapphire – dark and woody, with oud, sandalwood, amber, bush potato and cardamom.
Many scents come in several concentrations – as extrait de parfum, eau de toilette or cologne. Our guide Extrait, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Toilette? explains the differences.
Skincare from CH Laboratories
Alongside fragrance, Christopher Hanlon develops face and shaving care in its own CH Laboratories. The products combine Australian plant extracts, herbs and aromatherapy with the brand's own fermented serum EFS™.
At its heart is a 3-step system:
- Exfoliate – for example the Micro Exfoliant with gentle crystal formula
- Cleanse & tone – for example the Face Wash & Toner for normal to dry skin
- Moisturise – for example the hypoallergenic men's face moisturiser
There are also intensive treatments such as the Black Caviar Anti-Age Supreme Concentrate, a dedicated shaving range such as the Non-Lathering Shave Creme-Gel and ready-made sets such as the 3-step skincare set for men.
For the home and as a gift
The best-known scents are also available as scented candles, such as Silver Penny or Black Jasmine Rose. The brand also offers lipsticks such as Queen Delia Elizabeth and many gift sets in the signature Christopher Hanlon gift box.
FAQ
Where does Christopher Hanlon come from?
From Sydney, Australia. According to the brand, the first scent, Silver Penny, was created in 1994.
What makes the scents special?
Rare Australian botanical notes such as banksia, pink rock lily or bush potato that you hardly find in other perfumes.
Is there skincare for men?
Yes – from 3-step face care to a complete shaving range.
