Makeup Trends on the Nordic Streets

BeautyScandinavian

5 Aug

There is no doubt that Scandinavian makeup trends have been is à la mode for the past few years. As a makeup artist, I know that it can be difficult to create a natural, healthy, glowing skin on a day-to-day basis, without it looking overdone. I’ve studied the approach nordic women take with their makeup for a while now, and it’s something that I think everyone should take into consideration. The approach is care-free, but with purpose, practical, but playful, and I love it!

Although there are some differences between the countries – with Iceland being the main exception, as they are still moving away from more American makeup ideas – the rest of the Nordics follow similar trends. On the streets of Reykjavik, girls haven’t left the Kardashian contour behind, and are still embracing tanned skin, darker brows and lash extensions – especially for the parties – but it is all done tastefully.

Photographer: Kári Sverriss - Makeup Artist: Sigrún Ásta Jörgensen — *Photographer:* *Kári Sverriss* *– Makeup Artist:* *Sigrún Ásta Jörgensen*

First and foremost is the skin, which needs to be fresh and glowing. A good skincare routine is the foundation for healthy-looking skin, and any makeup will look good as a result of a simple and nutritious routine. Nordic women prefer to use tinted moisturizers, BB cream and CCs with concealer, instead of applying thicker layers of foundation. My choice would be Face and Body Foundation by MAC, as it’s lightweight and satin, paired with a touch of Clarins’ Instant Concealer. For the highlight, blush and contour it should be gentle and well blended, without any sharp lines, and that’s best achieved by using a cream-based product. Becca has a variety of creamy highlighters and blushes, which are perfect for a more natural finish over power, and I love their texture.

Eyebrows can’t be left undone! The perfect Nordic brows should be lightly defined and a bit bushy. They can’t be overdrawn, or too strong in color – my tip to achieve the most ‘natural’ brows is to first fill your brows lightly with a thin brow pencil, then draw in small hairs with an eyebrow liner, and finish with a setting gel. There are many eyebrow kits on the market right now, but my favourite team is MAC’s Eye Brows Styler and Shape + Shade Brow Tint. Top off with a gentle slick of mascara, and you’re done – there’s not usually any lipsticks or eyeshadows involved in everyday looks, so embrace the simplicity!

And for a night-out, it’s never about full on glam, but all about letting one element taking centre stage. Whether it’s a red lip, a light glitter eyeshadow or a winged eyeliner, keep it fresh, but simple.