Gunpowder Spice
The Holy Black
The Holy Black Trading Company is a family-owned men’s grooming brand and barbershop based in Lindenhurst, New York. Founded in 2013 by brothers Stefan and Matthew Gaudio, the company is rooted in their family’s barbering legacy, which began in their grandfather’s Brooklyn barbershop in the 1930s. Blending classic barbershop tradition with the grit of old New York, The Holy Black channels a bold aesthetic influenced by motorcycles, rock ’n’ roll, the Old West, and steampunk. Their edgy, vintage-inspired style is matched by a scent philosophy that honors timeless barbershop staples with a modern twist. The product line is tightly curated—featuring just one croap, one shaving cream, and a focused selection of eau de parfums, aftershave balms, beard oils, and grooming accessories.
Scent Description
Gunpowder Spice is a modern reinterpretation of the classic barbershop scent. While the brand reveals little about the precise notes, it highlights freshly fired black powder—nicknamed “The Holy Black,” from which the company takes its name—paired with spice. A subtle smokiness lingers, but the fragrance leans into the familiar territory of classic barbershops like Old Spice and Canoe, likely incorporating notes such as carnation, geranium, jasmine, vanilla, musk, and ambergris. The result is a scent that feels both nostalgic and contemporary—masculine, floral, sweet, and undeniably alluring. Easy to wear and versatile, it fits seamlessly into any setting, from home to the office to a night out.
Scent Strength
8
Longevity
8
Scent Family
Oriental
Subtype
Oriental
Suitability
Work, Date Night, Daytime, Evening, Home
Inspiration
Unique
Country of Origin
USA
Menthol
Non-menthol
Companion Products
Splash, Pomade, Beard Balm
Base Description
The Artisan Line soap features a minimalist vegan formula with just six ingredients. Stearic acid and coconut oil work together to create a highly structured lather that offers excellent cushion, density, and stability. Glycerin enhances slickness and serves as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin for a smooth, comfortable post-shave feel. Though deceptively simple, The Holy Black’s formula delivers premium performance—easily rivaling some of the most renowned soaps on the market.
Lather Properties
Cushion
8
Density
8
Slickness
7
Stability
Lather Type
9
Structured
Base Type
Base Name
Vegan
Artisan Line
Skin Food
Coconut Oil, Glycerin
Top Notes
Nutmeg, Anise
Heart Notes
Black Powder, Carnation, Geranium, Jasmine
Base Notes
Benzoin, Musk, Cedar, Ambergris, Tonka Bean, Vanilla
IIngredients
Vegetable Derived Stearic Acid, Coconut Oil, Potassium Hydroxide, Water, Glycerin, Fragrance.
Not Available For Purchase
