The obsession with all things Scandinavian shows no sign of waning. Whether it’s their minimalist interiors, enviable work-life balance or superior taste in baked goods, we all want a bit more Scandi in our lives. Hygge is the word du jour this winter and as well as lighting candles and eating cake, the colder months provide an ideal time to pay more attention to your beauty routine. It’s hardly surprising then that our Nordic neighbours have got it covered when it comes to beauty products. With a focus on simple formulas, natural ingredients and a holistic approach, Scandi brands are well worth investing in. Not only do they do good, the seriously covetable packaging means they look good too.
L:A Bruket
A skincare brand hailing from the Western Coast of Sweden, it has garnered cult status thanks to its stylish unisex packaging and organic ethos – think of it like the Scandinavian answer to Aesop. Upgrade your sink space with a stylish soap dispenser (yep, there is such a thing), or burn one of their standout candles for a home scent with a difference (for winter we love Tabac).
Photo: Via @labruke
Maria Nila
Vegan-friendly and sulphate-free are not normally terms associated with highly effective colour-protecting hair care, but Swedish based Maria Nila has managed it. Whether you’re trying to maintain a bold hue or looking to intensify or change your current colour, Maria Nila has got your back. Forty years in the making, the brand still develops and produces all its products in its Swedish factory. Plus, the candy pastel packaging will bring some colour to the most boring of bathrooms.
Photo: Via @marianilastockholm
Kjaer Weis
Some of our all-time favourite beauty brands were started by makeup artists themselves (think Nars, Bobbi Brown and Laura Mercier), and just like the creatives that have come before her, Kirsten Kjaer Weis’ product line is top-notch.
An in demand makeup artist for over 20 years, Danish born Weis put her vast knowledge to use when she designed her first product line in 2010. Set on doing some different with her range, Weis created a first-of-its kind luxury organic brand. The green credentials stretch further than its organic ingredients – each product can be refilled so you save on multiple packaging. Genius.
Photo: Via @kjaerweis
Verso
Founded by dermatology expert Lars Fredriksson, Verso is a pioneering anti-ageing skincare brand ideal for those with sensitive skin. Unlike traditional anti-ageing skincare, Verso does not use retinol but instead a new Vitamin A acid derivative that is eight times more potent, and also less harsh on the skin. Better still, all products in the range are free from irritating colourants, parabens and mineral oils. If you buy one product go for their Deep Hydration Mask, ideal for thirsty winter (or hungover) skin.
Photo: Via @versoskincare
Bjork & Berries
Encased in Instagrammable gold and white packaging is luxurious yet sustainable Swedish brand, Bjork & Berries. Inspired by the forests of Northern Sweden and centuries-old Scandinavian natural beauty traditions, the range,which include skin, hair and fragrance products, harness the power of high quality natural ingredients such as birch water, aloe vera and witch hazel.
Photo: Via @bjorkandberries
Vilhelm Parfumerie
When you think of Scandinavian fragrance houses, Byredo probably comes to mind but this part of the world has much more to offer than this much-loved brand. NYC based Jan Ahlgren is a former model-turned-handbag designer and the new nose to know. He started on his fragrance journey by scenting his handbag range for an added luxury touch, fell in love with the world of scent and niche fragrance brand Vilhelm Parfumerie was born. From the glamourous retro packaging to the storied swoon-worthy scents, it’s a brand worth investing in. Our current favourite? ‘A Lilac A Day’ – a floral scent you’ll never tire of wearing.
Photo: Via @vilhelm_parfumerie
Sachajuan
Started by Swedish hair duo Sacha Mitic and Juan Rosenlind, Sachajuan is known for its simple packaging and failsafe formulas. Housed in traditional brown glass medicine bottles, the secret to their success is the sea algae extract used throughout the range. Ocean Mist is their must-have product – one of the original salt sprays, it gives hair that textured ‘just been at the beach’ look even if you’re in cold dreary england.
Photo: Via @sachajuanLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?