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Why you need to look to Iceland for skincare inspiration

Why you need to look to Iceland for skincare inspiration
Team LF
Writer and expert6 years ago
View Team LF's profile

With deep blue lagoons and natural spas', Iceland is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. It seems odd then that we have never looked there for skincare inspiration before, given its own natural beauty.

Well that's all about to change as we delve into some of their skincare secrets, as well as looking to the Icelandic brands taking the beauty world by storm.

Why Iceland?

Aside from its unrivalled scenery, Iceland has some of the lowest levels of pollution in the world; making it perfect for regenerating skin health.

Considering its arctic temperatures, any plant or substance derived from nature needs to be robust to survive there. This means that they possess many different properties to other natural derivatives found around the world. It's these powerful differences which make each extract and essence so vital in helping achieve optimal skin health.

Icelandic skincare secrets

With temperatures so low and the atmosphere so dry, any Icelandic complexion requires the most nourishing formulas and hydrating products to keep the skin glowing and plumped-up. Luckily, their country produces some of the best and cult beauty brands in the world, as well as some of the most innovative skincare ideas.

Sulphur is a staple ingredient

With so many natural spas' dotted around the country, Iceland's waters are some of the most coveted when it comes to skin rejuvenation.

Because the water sources have geothermal originals, they are incredibly rich in minerals, including Sulphur, which although might smell bad, is actually excellent for skin health.

Sulphur can help to ease conditions such as dry skin and eczema, as well as acne and blemish-prone complexions. By helping to remove the top layer of your skin, it actually removes all the dirt and debris that can cause spot outbreaks and dehydration.

  • The Origins 10 Minute Mask contains Sulphur, Camphor and Zinc-Oxide, all of which help to remove excess oil and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
  • Oskia's Pure MSM Supplements contain a huge range of minerals including Sulphur, and help with cellular regeneration and collagen production; perfect for kicking off your New Year skincare routine.

Vitamin D is a must

Because Iceland is so far north, it doesn't experience as much daily sunlight as other countries, and so topping up on Vitamin D is absolutely essential to keeping the skin healthy.

Without Vitamin D, skin can look lacklustre and tired. By helping to improve the body's immune and nervous systems, Vitamin D also aids in keeping your skin cells healthy and free from infection, as well as protecting against free radicals.

Make sure to take a Vitamin D daily supplement, especially in the winter months when sunlight is rare. It won't only help with your skin, but also your overall mood, health and well-being.

The Bioglan Vitamin D3 Tablets help to keep your vitamin levels topped-up when you need the most, and have a great lemon flavour; perfect if you struggle with taking normal tablets.

Anti-ageing products are essential

Like many European countries, Iceland takes ageing very seriously, especially when it comes to skincare. As a result, Icelandic brand heavily invest in high-tech anti-ageing technology and ingredients that keep the skin looking youthful and plumped-up.

One of the newest brands to launch at lookfantastic is BIOEFFECT, which actually has Icelandic roots. Their EGF Serum is one of their most expensive items and contains a unique and naturally occurring human protein, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It might be pricey, but it seriously packs a punch when it comes to delivering healthy and youthful skin. We wouldn't live without it now.

Team LF
Writer and expert
View Team LF's profile
Our team of beauty experts cover everything from makeup to skincare, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the LOOKFANTASTIC blog, and find all your essentials in one place.
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