Beauty Articles

BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF – IN CONVERSATION WITH OLIVIER POLGE CHANEL’S IN-HOUSE PERFUMER CREATOR  images courtesy of CHANEL If I say the word “blue”, what comes to mind? BLEU DE CHANEL is no ordinary blue. It’s not the refreshing blue of a cloudless sky. It’s more intense – the final shade of blue before blue turns to black. BLEU DE CHANEL is a blue that evokes depth and density. How did you create this brand new BLEU DE CHANEL? It was my father* who created the BLEU DE CHANEL line. With L’Exclusif, the idea was to add a new chapter to the fragrance’s story, to reinterpret the theme of BLEU DE CHANEL . To do so, we started with an existing formula; then, like turning a kaleidoscope, we shifted the key components to reveal new facets, intensifying certain notes until new harmonies emerged. L’Exclusif leaves a distinctive mark – textured with leathery notes. What are the olfactory characteristics of BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF? BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF is a “woody, ambery-aromatic” fragrance. Its notes, centred around lavender, are classically masculine. These are followed by the woody and leathery-amber accords. While cedar plays a key role, we built the fragrance’s intensity on a foundation of sandalwood and the leathery, resinous facets of cistus labdanum. Can you tell us about what distinguishes CHANEL sandalwood? The sandalwood we select stands out, first and foremost, for its botanical variety, Santalum austrocaledonicum, but also for its extraction method, which allows us to capture unique woody facets. It is therefore essential to work on the combinations of this sandalwood with other raw materials to give the fragrance its energy. The combinations can hinge on the subtlest details . Sandalwood is a particularly refined and dense wood that needs to be enhanced in order to reveal all its facets. With BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF, you said you wanted to go beyond perfume… For L’Exclusif, the goal was to “go beyond perfume”. We had to find the tone that would express our vision of a masculine extrait by repurposing the qualities of feminine extraits, such as preciousness and intensity, while adding masculinity and depth. To do that, I wanted to delve further into woody notes. By broadening the spectrum of the woody olfactory family, we naturally arrived at leathery notes, which I wanted to be especially amber-like and resinous. These notes in L’Exclusif offer a deep and mysterious expression of masculinity, revealing the complexity of this fragrance. Is the intensity of BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF meant to evoke power? We tend to believe that the first impression of a fragrance must always be decisive. For BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF, however, we also prioritised the trail. Its power comes from the base. That is the great challenge of my craft: to anticipate the points of diffusion of a fragrance, to give it strength without weighing it down; and this case, for its power to rise from the base, yet contribute to the fragrance’s airiness. Does the extraction process require a particular technique? For N°5, Gabrielle Chanel desired an artificial (in the noble sense of the word) perfume – something composed. With that in mind, our aesthetic approach goes beyond raw essences and what nature offers us. We implement bespoke extraction techniques, which allow us to refine the raw materials and obtain unique facets. This is what we did for this BLEU: the sandalwood is notably obtained through an extraction technique specific to the House. The BLEU DE CHANEL line transcends time. Can you tell us about its evolution? It seems that men today are opting for bolder fragrances, genuinely seeking scents that stand out through their trail and lasting power. This marks a shift from the masculine perfumes of a few years ago, which favoured freshness and “clean” notes. In a different era, discretion was a prized quality in men’s fragrances. Today, that characteristic is less sought after; the approach to fragrance has become more emotional, more engaging. That is why BLEU DE CHANEL L’EXCLUSIF found its place so easily: it is a new identity that completes the complex mosaic of BLEU DE CHANEL. How did you collaborate with Sylvie Legastelois on the design of the bottle? Sylvie and I have an ongoing exchange that feeds us both creatively, ensuring harmony between a fragrance and its bottle. I find the shape of this bottle to be spot on. Sylvie has perfectly captured the strength and intensity of this new fragrance, even in the shape of the bottle itself.

J-Beauty! text Sanna Riley images courtesy of Naturie     There’s a lot of talk about K- beauty these days, but let’s not forget about J-Beauty!One Japanese brand I keep coming back to is Naturie Hatomugi. It’s affordable, simple, and surprisingly effective.The Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Essence was the first product I tried from them, and I liked how hydrating it was for such a low price. Recently, Naturie launched the Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Milk, and I was excited to give it a try.The milk has a gentle, mild formulation. A little goes a long way, providing great hydration without breaking the bank. The milky texture absorbs quickly and feels light. After using it on my body, my skin feels very hydrated and soft. It does leave a slight tacky or sticky feel at first, but overall it’s a really nice, affordable product.Compared to more expensive brands, I think this Skin Conditioning Milk truly delivers on its promises—rehydrating the skin without clogging pores and absorbing quickly. A fuss free basic lotion. 230 ml – Ca-pris 169 kr

LH Cosmetics Bids Farewell to Their Iconic Advent Calendar — In Style text Elva Ahlbin LH Cosmetics is kicking off the holiday season with an advent calendar designed to bring out the joy and creativity that define the brand. It’s filled with exclusive launches, full-size icons, and some of the year’s most talked-about products — all packaged in a sleek, roomy pouch designed to live on well beyond December. After several years of releasing calendars, the brand has decided that 2025 will be their last one. “We’ve created calendars for years, always pushing to innovate and improve.  But we honestly feel it’s hard to top 2025’s edition — and we never want to release anything that isn’t 100%,” they say. The calendar includes 25 doors and 27 products, shaped by feedback from their community of beauty enthusiasts. Each day offers a small surprise — from bold color to easy everyday staples — aimed at making December a little more fun and inspiring. While the advent calendar tradition is wrapping up, LH Cosmetics continues to focus on what they do best: encouraging creativity, play, and self-expression through makeup.

MERIT BEAUTY Arrives In Sweden text Elva Ahlbin Minimal effort, maximum impact. This October, American brand MERIT Beauty makes its long-awaited debut in Sweden and Denmark through meritbeauty.com, marking its first step into the Nordic market. Known for its thoughtful, skin-friendly formulations, MERIT has built a loyal following since 2021 by creating routines that are nearly impossible to get wrong and by using carefully selected, well-thought-out ingredients that seamlessly fit into everyday life. Since its launch, MERIT has become a go-to name for those who appreciate a minimalist approach to beauty—one that emphasizes doing more with less and focusing on essentials. In the Swedish market, where simplicity and efficiency are highly valued, MERIT’s philosophy feels like a natural fit. As MERIT’s CMO Aila Morin notes, “Scandinavia has always been a source of inspiration for us. We’ve long had the Scandinavian woman in mind—practical, driven, yet playful. There’s a shared sense of functionality and aesthetic minimalism that aligns perfectly with our philosophy.” MERIT’s product lineup consists of 17 carefully crafted items, all vegan, cruelty-free, and designed with skin-friendly compositions. Highlights include The Minimalist Complexion Stick, Great Skin Instant Glow Serum, and the Retrospect L’Extrait de Parfum, which all reflect MERIT’s commitment to thoughtfully chosen ingredients and a seamless user experience. In essence, MERIT isn’t just bringing its products to Sweden—it’s bringing a perspective on beauty that resonates with a Nordic way of life: simple, effective, and designed with care.

CHANEL beauty backstage photo courtesy of Chanel

The Essentials of September Written by Yasmine Mubarak New season, new beauty products. In a wish to explore simplicity, with exclusivity, we have gathered the products we love for the new season. Products that are tested, and approved, not to mention products we have bought again. Find your new favorite hair oil, or skincare products to give you that hydration and protective skin barrier with the products below. The Ordinary Multi-Active Delivery Essence Say hi to your autumn favorite, the hydrating, conditioning essence from The Ordinary. I am already on my second bottle. The new essence makes your skin ready for your skincare routine. It’s a hydrating essence that instantly nourishes and restores skin condition, giving softer-feeling skin. The lightweight skincare essence strengthens the skin barrier after one application and keeps skin hydrated and luminous all day. The essence contains a specific combination of four active technologies, which effectively boost skin hydration to increase penetration of skincare ingredients. It instant reliefs the dry and irritated skin, and hydrates it for a softer feeling. Maria Nila Cica Oil The latest product for Maria Nila is their Cica Oil,  an ultra-light yet deeply nourishing hair oil that softens, strengthens and adds shine – without feeling heavy. The formula is enriched with Tiger Grass (Cica) and soothing Peach Blossom. Together, they moisturize and protect sensitive hair for a lovely soft shine. With built-in heat protection (up to 230°C), it is the choice for daily styling. A new must-have for those with fine hair looking for effective hair care. Lush Matcha Face Mask As Matcha has taken over the western world the last couple of years. Lush has created a face mask supercharged with superfoods. This nutrient-rich skincare smoothie will keep your face in tip top condition, leaving it soft, smooth and glowing. Spirulina and matcha are rich sources of antioxidants: compounds that can have a protective effect on the skin against environmental stress, while fresh lemon juice is packed with vitamin C. A generous helping of vegan glycerine keeps the skin looking plump and hydrated. Lush Super Milk Body LotionAs we are getting in a new season, so are our preferables of good and friendly skincare for both our skin, but our planet. The Super Milk body butter is filled with murumuru butter from Brazil and Peru supports local communities by offering them an additional source of income and forest protection for the Amazon Rainforest — the most biodiverse ecosystem in the world. It contains beautiful cupuaçu butter from the Amazon, which is grown in an agroforestry system and organic, Fair Trade cocoa butter that supports smallholder farmers and local communities. Also made with organic avocado oil produced from fruits rejected by the food industry.  Rapunzel of Sweden Tape ExtensionsNew season, new hair. With Rapunzel’s easy extensions you can add volume or length to your hair easily at home. Premium Tape Extensions are used for full hair extension and/or thickening. The soft classic attachment made of transparent polyurethane (PU) follows the shape of the head for maximum comfort and provides a discreet and long-lasting result. The full remy hair gives a natural look and can be easily styled together with your own hair.  Mix Premium Tape Extensions Classic with Premium Tape Extensions Seamless for a natural result without visible attachments. L’orèal Paris Elvital Scalp SerumA scalp serum is a lovely addition to your regime, one of the newest in the bunch is the Elvital Growth Booster Anti-Fall Scalp Serum from L’orèal. This targeted treatment strengthens hair roots, promoting stronger, denser hair from the source for visibly improved results. La Roche Posay Mela B3 Serum The french icon brand, presents it B3 Serum with 10% niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and melastyltm that hydrates and makes pigment spots/dark spots on the skin appear less visible. The skin looks refined with a more even and radiant skin tone. Over time, dark spots are seen to have decrease and helps strengthen the skin barrier. Tested on stubborn dark spots and marks from impurities. Suitable for sensitive skin, and can be used on the face, neck and hands. The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support SerumIs it okey to add two products of the same brand! Yes, if they are as good as these two together. The Soothing & Barrier Support serum is a multi-active solution designed to help repair skin barrier, soothe discomfort, and reduce the look of redness. After cleansing and toning, add the serum in your AM or PM routine (I would recommend PM as it gives a lovely glow you wake up with). The serum is gentle and works for people with sensitive skin, or as an addition if you feel irritated, you can use the serum to calm your skin down. It features technologies such as Centella asiatica phytotechnologies, ceramides, niacinamide, and vitamin B12, among others—a complex blend that helps reduce the look of redness, support hydration, and protect the skin from environmental stressors. All the goodies. La Bonne Brosse, Cair Protective Oil Cair’s protective oil is the perfect ally to protect your hair with nutrition and hydration.The hair fiber when used is smoothed, and the cuticles are sealed for repaired, enhanced, and healthy hair. It contains Vitamin E, that helps fight premature aging and external aggressions thanks to its antioxidant properties. Karanja oil: It forms a natural shield that fights UV rays, responsible for many damages to the hair. Polyphenol: Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it protects the shine and intensity of color-treated hair while preserving the keratin structure In addition broccoli oil,  a natural alternative to silicone.

The Face Mists I’m Keeing Close the Summer Jahwanna Berglund Summer comes with its own little rituals and beauty essentials, and if you’re anything like me, you probably have at least one face mist within arm’s reach at all times. There’s just something about that cooling, refreshing spritz that instantly revives your skin (and spirit), whether you’re on a sun-drenched terrace, by the sea, or simply trying to survive a city heatwave. In France, you’ll find bottles of Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray tucked into fridges everywhere, a true summer staple that delivers that classic no-fuss burst of hydration. But this season, I’ve found myself drawn to a few mists that go beyond the basics and bring something extra to the table. Here are four favorites I’ll be alternating this summer, depending on mood and moment. ZO Skin Health – Soothing Hydro MistThis one is my go-to after sun exposure. It’s designed to calm and comfort, and I find it really helps when my skin feels tight or a little irritated after a long day outdoors. Bonus: it layers effortlessly under or over makeup. MANTLE – The Skin DrinkA refreshing mist with a little extra soul. Packed with CBD, aloe vera, and cucumber, it feels like a small reset hydration button for my face. I love the subtle scent; it’s gentle, and perfect for mid-day moments when you need a pause. N°1 DE CHANEL – Red Camellia Serum-in-MistWhen I want my mist to feel a bit more luxurious, this is what I reach for. It hydrates, soothes, and adds a beautiful, subtle glow. I love using it before dinner out or anytime I want a little touch of radiance. And I would be lying if I didn’t say this is just too chic to carry in your bag, designed to fit perfectly in your hand. Clinique – Moisture Surge Face SprayThis one is like an instant drink of water for your face. Lightweight yet super-quenching, it’s infused with aloe and glycerin to refresh and plump tired skin. I like keeping it in the fridge for that extra-cool spritz on really hot days. Perfect post-flight, post-sun, or anytime your skin’s begging for moisture.So whether you’re heading for the coast, staying in the city, or just looking for a quenching, it’s infused with aloe and glycerin to refresh and plump tired skin. I like keeping it in the fridge for that extra-cool spritz on really hot days. Perfect post-flight, post-sun, or anytime your skin’s begging for moisture.So whether you’re heading for the coast, staying in the city, or just looking for a fresh boost in the heat, a good face mist is a summer must.

A Dazzling New Chapter in Chanel’s Chance Story: Introducing Chance Eau Splendide text Jahwanna Berglund Just when you think the game is over, Chanel rolls the dice once more and this time, the outcome is splendid. The beloved Chance fragrance family welcomes a new addition: Chance Eau Splendide, a radiant scent painted in purple a shade of magic, rebellion, and quiet nobility. It’s the colour of dreams, depth, and daring. Following the energizing green of Eau Fraîche, the tender pink of Eau Tendre, and the fiery orange of Eau Vive, this latest creation takes us into a new dimension: one that’s both playful and profound. Crafted by Olivier Polge, Chanel’s In-House Perfumer-Creator, Chance Eau Splendide is a fragrance of paradoxes. It dances between lightness and gravity, flirtation and finesse. A sparkling raspberry accord opens the experience, fresh, crisp, and joyful, before unfolding into a floral heart where rose and violet meet the elegance of rose geranium, partly cultivated in Chanel’s very own fields in Grasse. The dry down is where the magic settles: cedarwood and white musk, softened with the powdery sophistication of iris, linger long after first spritz, like an echo of laughter after the curtain has fallen. This fragrance is an invitation to take risks. To believe in serendipity. To follow instinct and embrace the unknown. Chance Eau Splendide is the kind of perfume you wear when you want the universe on your side. A spritz on the neck becomes a small ritual of hope, daring, and intention.As Olivier Polge reflects, “The original idea behind chance was a state of mind that we interpreted in very different styles… Each chance fragrance is unique, but they all express the same emotion—something very lively and very direct.” Chance Eau Splendide embodies that philosophy, and then some. It arrives unannounced, with a mischievous wink and a dazzling energy. It’s the fragrance of those who believe fortune isn’t found, it’s made.And for those who dare to seize it, Chance Eau Splendide is a shimmering leap into what’s next.

Trinny Woodall: Reinventing Beauty, One Stack at a Time text Sandra Myhrberg From fashion makeovers on television to redefining the beauty industry, Trinny Woodall has always been at the forefront of transformation. As the founder of Trinny London, she has built a brand that champions innovation, personalization, and empowerment—helping women feel their best at every stage of life. In this interview, Trinny shares the inspiration behind her beauty empire, the challenges of building a global brand, and how she continues to push boundaries with technology, sustainability, and skincare-first solutions. With a fearless approach to business and an unwavering commitment to her customers, Trinny proves that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s essential. Trinny, you’ve had such a dynamic and diverse career—from television to founding a global beauty brand. What inspired you to create Trinny London, and how did your personal experiences influence its core philosophy?I started my career in finance and in my 30s, I realised I wanted to make over women and take them on a journey of evolution. So I started that part of my career as a journalist and I wrote for many years for the Daily Telegraph. I did a column called Ready to Wear, which turned into a TV show for the BBC called What Not to Wear — I did that for 10 years. I spent 20 years going all around the world making over women and the question that I was most asked was, ‘what colours suit me?’ The first thing that a woman can accept in herself in a makeover is the change in her makeup and I realised then the impact you could have by switching up her makeup and the idea for Trinny London was born from the inspiration of these women. To offer portable, personalised makeup that was joyful, effortless and inspiring. Starting a beauty brand in an already competitive market is no small feat. What was the biggest challenge you faced in the early days, and how did you overcome it?I think I learnt many things from an online business I started a few years before I started Trinny London. I learnt a lot about what I would not do at Trinny London and one of those things was hiring people who are too senior, too soon. This helped me grow my team on a slower scale when I started Trinny London. Another key lesson is understanding exactly what your proposition is in order for your business to grow. If I look at the mistakes I’ve made since launching Trinny London, there has been product development that hasn’t become a product. This could be down to something going wrong in the development or manufacturing process. It’s a big moment to have to decide to abandon a project because we think the product isn’t good enough for the brand. From fashion makeovers on television to redefining the beauty industry, Trinny Woodall has always been at the forefront of transformation. As the founder of Trinny London, she has built a brand that champions innovation, personalization, and empowerment—helping women feel their best at every stage of life. In this interview, Trinny shares the inspiration behind her beauty empire, the challenges of building a global brand, and how she continues to push boundaries with technology, sustainability, and skincare-first solutions. With a fearless approach to business and an unwavering commitment to her customers, Trinny proves that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s essential. Trinny, you’ve had such a dynamic and diverse career—from television to founding a global beauty brand. What inspired you to create Trinny London, and how did your personal experiences influence its core philosophy?I started my career in finance and in my 30s, I realised I wanted to make over women and take them on a journey of evolution. So I started that part of my career as a journalist and I wrote for many years for the Daily Telegraph. I did a column called Ready to Wear, which turned into a TV show for the BBC called What Not to Wear — I did that for 10 years. I spent 20 years going all around the world making over women and the question that I was most asked was, ‘what colours suit me?’ The first thing that a woman can accept in herself in a makeover is the change in her makeup and I realised then the impact you could have by switching up her makeup and the idea for Trinny London was born from the inspiration of these women. To offer portable, personalised makeup that was joyful, effortless and inspiring. Starting a beauty brand in an already competitive market is no small feat. What was the biggest challenge you faced in the early days, and how did you overcome it?I think I learnt many things from an online business I started a few years before I started Trinny London. I learnt a lot about what I would not do at Trinny London and one of those things was hiring people who are too senior, too soon. This helped me grow my team on a slower scale when I started Trinny London. Another key lesson is understanding exactly what your proposition is in order for your business to grow. If I look at the mistakes I’ve made since launching Trinny London, there has been product development that hasn’t become a product. This could be down to something going wrong in the development or manufacturing process. It’s a big moment to have to decide to abandon a project because we think the product isn’t good enough for the brand. You often talk about empowering women to feel confident at any stage of their lives. How do you hope Trinny London contributes to this message of empowerment?Our mission is to give everyone the tools they need to fearlessly feel their best. Fearlessness to me means having that faith in myself. It frees me up to knock on the next door without knowing for sure what’s behind it. We are all capable of more