Translated by Bethszabee Garner
With his keen eye as a makeup artist and a sensitivity to skincare cultivated since childhood, Gregoris Pyrpylis has established a unique vision of beauty that is instinctive, sensory, and deeply human. As head of beauty creation at Hermès since 2022, he has established himself as one of the most discerning voices in the cosmetics industry. For OniriQ, he looks back on his career.
Sirine Erammach: What was the first beauty product you ever bought?
Gregoris Pyrpylis: I grew up in a pharmacy because of my parents' profession, and the world of skincare quickly became an integral part of my life. At the age of 16, knowing that my mother would probably disapprove (and she'll probably find out when she reads this interview), I discreetly “borrowed” a tester of an eye cream designed to reduce signs of fatigue in mature skin, as I had small bags under my eyes myself (laughs). I quickly realized that a rested look made all the difference and instantly brightened the face.
Sirine Erammach: What facial product do you take with you everywhere?
G.P.: I'm a big believer in skincare, and for me, it all starts with a good cleanse. To keep my skin looking radiant, I always carry Institut Esthederm's Osmoclean mask with me. It acts like a magnet for impurities, smoothes my skin, and leaves it feeling really soft.
Sirine Erammach: Is there a beauty ritual that you consider essential to your routine?
G.P.: I really enjoy lymphatic drainage, which helps reduce puffiness in my face in the morning, but I've also recently discovered the benefits of microcurrent devices, such as the one by Foreo, which really stimulate the skin. It's like a workout for your face! I started using it about two months ago and do it every night. I'm feeling particularly tired at the moment, and using this device makes a real difference to the way my skin looks and feels.
Sirine Erammach: Tell us about your daily makeup routine.
G.P.: It's very simple but very effective. I start with Plein Air Complexion Balm, which contains hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and SPF 30. I apply it to the center of my face only to even out my complexion and add radiance. Next, I like to brush my eyebrows and curl my lashes to achieve an open, bright look. I use Rose Hermès blush (Rose Feu shade) on my cheekbones and under my eyes to give a fresh effect. Finally, I use Rouge Hermès lip balm to moisturize my lips, which I can also apply in winter to my cheekbones where the skin feels tight.
Sirine Erammach: What is your must-have body product?
G.P.: I really like exfoliating. Unlike people who moisturize their skin every time they get out of the shower, I tend to only do it in summer. Exfoliating makes me feel like nothing is building up on my skin, leaving it perfectly clean. We often emphasize the importance of moisturizing, but we sometimes forget the previous step, which is just as crucial.
Sirine Erammach: Is there a beauty product or accessory you wish you had invented?
G.P.: Without a doubt, mascara! It's a product that speaks to all women and gives those who use it unparalleled intensity and confidence. Although I didn’t invent it, I had the opportunity to create some beautiful shades for Hermès, such as Rouge H, a deep burgundy, and Bleu Encre, a subtle, muted blue that flatters everyone.
Sirine Erammach: Do you have a secret to staying energized throughout the day?
G.P.: I travel a lot, and no matter what pace of life you have, it's essential to give enough importance to sleep. You shouldn't feel guilty about taking the time to recover properly. I've invested in a good Simmons mattress and always take my pillow with me so I can rest well wherever I am. I also exercise regularly to boost my physical and mental energy, particularly CrossFit, which is a complete workout combining cardio, weight training, and gymnastics. During this hour of intense exercise, usually in the morning, I switch off completely. It's a time when I draw strength for the day ahead.
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Sirine Erammach: What is your favorite perfume?
G.P.: I've always loved perfumes, and for years I had a signature fragrance. Lately, I've been enjoying exploring and trying new scents. My favorite right now is Hermessence Oud Azelan. I love the subtle blend of fresh rose and the distinct, powerful character of oud, as imagined by Christine Nagel.
Sirine Erammach: And your beauty icon?
G.P.: I'm not going to mention anyone famous because icons are everywhere in our daily lives. In my eyes, an icon is someone who remains true to themselves, authentic and sincere, even in their approach to and thoughts on beauty. I appreciate those who embrace their uniqueness. They inspire me and I find beauty in the way they are.
Sirine Erammach: Is there a place you like to go to recharge your batteries?
G.P.: The Friedrichsbad in Baden-Baden, Germany. It's a thermal bath where you can spend the whole day. I try to go there twice a year on weekends. The place is magnificent, both in terms of its architecture and its atmosphere. You can bathe in waters of different temperatures and enjoy hammams and saunas. At the end of the day, you come out feeling revitalized, as if all the fatigue accumulated during the year has evaporated. And it's very easy to get to from Paris by train.
Sirine Erammach: What beauty ritual do you think is underrated?
G.P.: We don't take the time to get to know and understand ourselves. We often absorb all the information we see on social media, in magazines, etc., and take it as strict rules to follow in order to recreate a certain image of beauty, without thinking about what really suits us. But in reality, makeup and beauty in general are based on experimentation and observation. Little by little, by exploring different styles, we begin to shape our own image and expression in accordance with our inner selves.
Sirine Erammach: What does luxury mean to you?
G.P.: Comfort and time. These days, we are often rushed to accomplish many tasks without really taking the time to delve deeper into them. And we sometimes place so much emphasis on our external image that we neglect our inner well-being.
Sirine Erammach: You are on an island and can only take three Hermès Beauté products with you. Which ones would you choose?
G.P.: First, the Plein Air complexion balm because it will protect my skin with its SPF. Then, the Complete Hand Care, which can also moisturize my body. Finally, if I'm lost on the island, I'd like to have Rouge Hermès with me, in Casaque or Rouge Orange, so that I can be easily seen by the rescue teams who come to save me (laughs). If I'm there by choice, I'll just take the Baume à Lèvres with me because my lips are likely to get dry in the sun!
Sirine Erammach: You have launched several chapters of Beaute Hermès since 2020. What's next?
G.P.: In September 2023, we launched the Le Regard collection (six eye shadow palettes) and Trait d'Hermès (six mascaras). This year, we are expanding Le Trait Hermès with 40 shades for the eyes and lips. The wooden pencils are reminiscent of those found in schoolkits, and their cases are inspired by the colored pencil boxes we had when we were children.
Photo credit for cover: Thomas Duchene
Article written by Sirine Erramach to be found in issue n°8 of OniriQ Magazine.
