6 Scandinavian Beauty Secrets You Must Know

"Lagom" is more than just a word in the Swedish lexicon; it's a lifestyle. The term, which loosely translates to "just the right amount," or “not too much, not too little,” encapsulates the Scandinavian approach to life and, by extension, beauty. Less clutter, more purpose.

Are your bathroom shelves spilling over with half-used bottles and miracle potions? Consider a Scandinavian-style reset. Start by discarding or donating items that haven't lived up to their promises. Next, consult with your skincare professional to identify key high-performance products that suit your specific skin needs. Scandinavians focus on versatile products that offer multiple benefits, like a moisturiser with built-in SPF or a gentle cleanser that also exfoliates.

When the Scandinavian sun finally graces the land after a long, cold winter, the locals make the most of it. However, they never bargain on sun protection; SPF is a non-negotiable aspect of their skincare arsenal.

Given the harshness of the Australian sun, a high SPF isn't just advisable—it's essential. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Make it a daily routine, just like brushing your teeth. Also, consider wearing sun-protective clothing and accessories like hats and sunglasses for additional defence against the elements.

Unlike regimes that solely focus on skincare products, Scandinavians advocate a 360-degree approach to beauty that harmonises diet, physical activity and mental wellbeing.

Incorporate a diet rich in antioxidants found in green tea, berries and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, flaxseeds and avocados are essential for radiant skin. Physical activity is not just a gym routine; it's choosing to bike over driving, hiking over binge-watching your comfort series for the third time this year, and embracing the outdoors, no matter the weather. The Scandi saying, "There's no bad weather, only bad clothes," serves as a mantra for integrating activity and outdoor time—rain or shine.

While the afternoon coffee ritual, or 'Fika,' is a staple in Scandinavian culture, so is staying hydrated. Their coffee cups are balanced by water glasses, negating the dehydrating effects of caffeine.

Try to consume 2-3 litres of water every day, and it doesn't have to be a bore. Infuse it with fresh herbs or fruit slices for added taste. In your skincare routine, opt for serums and moisturisers rich in hyaluronic acid, which helps your skin retain the hydration you're providing internally.

No Scandinavian follows the same skincare routine year-round. As the seasons change, so do their skincare products, adapting to the differing needs the climate imposes on the skin.

For the colder months, cream-based cleansers and heavier oils like avocado and tamanu oil can offer an extra layer of protection. Come summer, a lighter, water-based moisturiser and dry oils like rosehip oil are your go-to options.

Saunas are not just a leisure activity in Scandinavia; they are a holistic health ritual. The steam and heat help open pores, detoxify the skin and improve blood circulation.

If you can't visit a traditional Scandinavian sauna, recreate the experience at home. Fill your bathtub with hot water and add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or lavender. For exfoliation, use a sea salt scrub enriched with rosemary, lavender and lemon essential oils. Finish the ritual with a brisk cold shower to close the pores and invigorate the skin.

In essence, Scandinavian beauty is less about individual practices and more about a holistic approach to wellbeing. By integrating these six key principles into your daily routine, you'll be well on your way to embodying the ageless grace and glowing complexion that are the hallmarks of Nordic beauty.

At Evolve Skin Aesthetics Clinic in Wollongong, our team of aestheticians is here to help you tailor these principles to your unique skincare needs, using a curated selection of high-performance products and treatments. Ready to embark on a transformative journey? Book your personalised consultation with us today via our contact page.