Scandinavia consistently leads the way when it comes to natural beauty, high environmental standards, and functionality in skin and hair care. This region — encompassing Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Norway — is associated with pristine landscapes, crystal-clear waters, northern forests, and deep respect for nature. This worldview is clearly reflected in the cosmetic products made there.
The harsh Nordic climate requires a special approach to care. That’s why local brands create effective formulas that deliver intense hydration, nourishment, and protection — all while remaining as natural as possible. Their strength lies in simplicity, quality, and a scientific approach to natural resources.
The raw ingredients used in Scandinavian cosmetics undergo strict quality control, and production follows high environmental standards and certifications, including vegan, cruelty-free, and ISO compliance.
In this article, we’ll explore the top five Scandinavian brands of women’s cosmetics and beauty devices that embody the Nordic beauty philosophy. These brands aren’t just a trend — they’re a powerful example of how modern skincare can be clean, honest, and truly effective.
Scandinavian aesthetics in action: fewer words, better results.
Foreo — a revolution in the world of beauty gadgets
In 2013, the Swedish brand Foreo entered the global beauty industry. Thanks to a successful combination of an innovative approach, modern design, and functionality, it immediately attracted attention. The brand's concept is to create smart gadgets that turn daily routines into effective and enjoyable skincare procedures.
Foreo was one of the first to introduce ultrasonic cleansing technology in the mass market. The brand started with the LUNA device — a compact silicone facial cleansing brush with patented T-Sonic™ technology. The brush bristles, under the action of more than 8,000 pulses per minute, gently remove makeup residues, sebum, and impurities. This technology allows for deeper pore cleansing than traditional products. The LUNA device is suitable for all skin types, and its material — hypoallergenic silicone — ensures complete hygiene and durability.
The series includes various options — from the miniature LUNA mini and LUNA 3 to the advanced LUNA 4 with additional massage modes and anti-aging effect.
But the brand did not stop there. Soon after, new Foreo devices appeared: UFO and UFO Mini 2 — smart mask devices that combine light therapy, temperature effects, and micro-vibrations, transforming skincare into a home SPA. Foreo also released cosmetics — a line of special masks activated by the UFO.
The next Foreo innovation was the beauty device BEAR, which uses microcurrents and helps tone facial muscles, making contours more defined, and IRIS — a device for caring for the delicate skin around the eyes.
Special attention should be paid to the Foreo ISSA 2 toothbrush, released in 2018. This innovative silicone toothbrush with a hybrid head combines gentle cleansing with powerful pulsations for careful care of teeth and gums. One charge provides up to a year of autonomous operation, making it ideal for travel.
Lumene — combining the natural eco-Ingredients of the North with modern technologies
Lumene is a Finnish cosmetics brand inspired by the beauty and power of Scandinavian nature. The company was founded in the heart of Lapland and has focused from the very beginning on naturalness, environmental responsibility, and locally sourced natural ingredients. The core philosophy of Lumene is the combination of pure Arctic water, wild berries, mosses, and northern plants — all handpicked in pristine northern regions — with modern skincare technologies. Each component undergoes laboratory testing, and some formulas contain up to 100% natural ingredients.
The company originated in 1948 as part of the Orion Corporation. The Lumene brand itself was established later, in 1970, after the cosmetics division was separated. For a time, it operated under the name Noiro Oy.
The first cosmetic products were released in the 1950s and quickly gained popularity among Finnish women due to their natural composition and high quality. Starting in the 1970s, the company expanded its range — new Lumene products, including skincare and makeup, began to enter the market actively.
In the 1980s, the brand appeared on the international market, and in the 1990s, the Body Aktiva line was launched, based on natural components. Even before the 2000s, thousands of positive reviews had made Lumene a leader in Finland’s cosmetics market, and today, the brand is represented on four continents.
Lumene's cosmetics production meets the highest eco-standards, none of its products are tested on animals, and its formulas are developed with consideration for different skin types and consumer needs.
Lumene's product lines include both basic care — cleansing, toning, moisturizing — and specialized series for radiance, firmness, and the fight against the first signs of aging.
The Nordic-C series from Lumene is a vitamin boost for the skin, created with a powerful antioxidant — vitamin C — combined with Arctic cloudberry and pure spring water from Finland. This line is specifically designed to give the skin a natural glow, even out skin tone, and combat dullness, which often results from stress, fatigue, or environmental exposure.
Thanks to its light textures and pleasant citrus scent, the products in this line are ideal for daily use, especially in urban environments where the skin requires additional protection and restoration.
In addition to skincare, the brand also offers makeup products: powders, highlighters, blushes, foundations, mascaras for lashes and brows, eyeshadows, lipsticks, etc. Lumene’s decorative cosmetics also meet high-quality standards and do not contain harmful substances.
Lumene is a brand for those who value naturalness, effectiveness, and harmony with nature.
Ecooking — minimalism on the outside and natural ingredients on the inside
Ecooking is a Danish natural cosmetics brand that combines the simplicity and minimalism of Scandinavian style with the effectiveness of professional skincare. Ecooking was founded in 2015 by cosmetologist Tina Sørenen, who was dealing with problematic skin. At first, Tina created products at home, manually mixing ingredients in her own kitchen — hence the name: Eco + cooking.
The main idea of the brand is to give the skin exactly what it needs, without unnecessary fragrances, silicones, or parabens. All products are made from highly natural, vegan, and organic ingredients, often of edible origin. Packaging is eco-friendly, and compositions are transparent and easy to understand. The products consist of natural ingredients that work gently but effectively — without aggressive chemicals or unnecessary perfumes.
Ecooking cosmetics include products for face, body, and hair: cleansing, moisturizing, anti-aging care, masks, serums, and even multi-functional balms. The products are suitable for both women and men.
Among the active ingredients are hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, organic oils, niacinamide, and peptides that help support the skin barrier and fight signs of aging.
Ecooking is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and problematic skin, as it contains no parabens, silicones, or synthetic fragrances. It’s skincare you can use daily — knowing that it works gently, honestly, and with care for both you and the planet. That’s why satisfied consumers around the world leave thousands of positive reviews about Ecooking.
Ecooking makeup not only conceal imperfections and enhance appearance, but primarily care for the skin, since each product contains beneficial ingredients: organic oils, vitamins, and natural waxes that moisturize, protect, and don’t clog pores.
All products feature lightweight, breathable textures, natural shades, and convenient packaging. It’s the perfect choice for natural, everyday makeup that combines aesthetics and care.
The brand constantly works on improving technologies and expanding its range, so don’t miss out on new Ecooking releases!
L:A BRUKET — Swedish authenticity in every jar
The story of the brand L:A BRUKET began in 2009 in the coastal town of Varberg, located on the west coast of Sweden. It was here, among the waves of the Baltic Sea, spa traditions, and untouched nature, that the couple Mats Johansson and Monica Kjellin started their own business, which later grew into an internationally recognized natural cosmetics brand.
Monica was involved in ceramics and started looking for a product that would restore the skin on her hands after long work with clay. She wanted something natural — without synthetic fragrances and harsh ingredients. Thus, the first laboratory appeared in the basement of their home, where they experimented with making soaps, creams, and essential oils. One of the first creams was created based on seaweed, hand-harvested on the coast. This ingredient remains a signature of the brand to this day.
The name L:A BRUKET comes from the word bruket, which in Sweden means “workshop.” It reflects the brand’s philosophy — handmade cosmetics with respect for nature, people, and craftsmanship.
L:A BRUKET cosmetics are made exclusively from 100% natural ingredients: sea salt, brown seaweed, medicinal herbs, essential oils, clays, and minerals. A special focus is placed on local raw materials: sage, rosemary, lavender, fennel, geranium. The brand strictly avoids synthetic fragrances and harsh components. All products are made according to eco-standards and sustainable production principles.
Among the best-known L:A BRUKET products are nourishing hand creams, lip balms, sea salt scrubs, body oils, and home care products. All come in minimalist design with maximum effect.
Among the regular novelties are L:A BRUKET travel sets of favorite care products in mini formats.
Today, L:A BRUKET cosmetics are sold in more than 30 countries worldwide.
REF: hair care with a Scandinavian approach
REF (Reference of Sweden) is a professional Swedish brand that combines naturalness, functionality, and an ethical approach to hair care. Its story began in the early 2000s, when a team of Swedish stylists and technologists decided to create a brand that would unite the power of nature, Scandinavian minimalism, and the needs of the modern beauty industry.
Initially, REF cosmetics were aimed at professional salons but quickly gained popularity among home users due to clear formulas, honest ingredients, and high effectiveness. REF’s new products began entering the market positioning the brand as an alternative to harsh products — focusing on natural ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and a vegan approach to product creation.
REF offers comprehensive hair care: shampoos, conditioners, masks, styling products, products for colored hair, and special formulas for textured or damaged hair. The basis of most products consists of organic ingredients — quinoa seed, argan oil, bamboo extract, lingonberries, and other plant-based components grown or harvested in the Scandinavian region.
One of the brand’s key features is the system of three numbers on the packaging that indicate the levels of hydration, volume, and hold. This approach allows for quick selection of the perfect product according to hair type and desired result.
Currently, REF is present in more than 30 countries worldwide and remains true to its principles: no animal testing, clean formulas without parabens and sulfates, sustainable production, and respect for the environment remain the foundation of every product. Reviews from professional hairstylists and home users confirm the high quality and effectiveness of the brand’s products.
Favorite cosmetic brands at Duty Free
Are you planning a trip abroad? Then be sure to visit duty free! One of the main advantages of such stores is the guarantee of quality and authenticity of the products. Duty free shops work exclusively with official suppliers and brands. This means the risk of buying a fake here is practically nonexistent. To make your shopping even more convenient and comfortable, choose the Mydutyfree pre-order service.
It allows you to shop without rush or hassle. All you need to do is visit the website or app, select your location, browse the online catalog, and place your pre-order. Plus, most products come with an additional discount when ordered online! This is especially convenient for those who don’t want to spend time shopping during their trip and are looking for good deals. Your order will be waiting for you at duty free on the day you cross the border. You can pick it up at a special checkout counter without waiting in line and pay on the spot.