The Power of Nordic Berries: Super Ingredients for Radiant Skin and Optimal Health
The harsh climates of the Nordic regions have produced berries that are not only flavorful but packed with health-boosting nutrients. Nordic berries, also called arctic berries have long been staples in Scandinavian diets. Now, their superfood status is being recognized worldwide for their dietary benefits. However, there are also many, many benefits of Nordic berries products in skincare.
For a Nordic beauty routine, skincare brands from the Nordic countries often incorporate the berries in their products for in effective and unique beauty products.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the incredible health benefits of Nordic berries and how they can enhance your skincare routine.
The Benefits of Nordic Berries
Features:
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin C & E
- Omega Fatty Acids
- Fibers
Skin Benefits:
- Anti-aging
- Hydration
- Soothing
- Boosts Skin Cell Turnover
- Protecting skin barrier
1. Lingonberries
Lingonberries are small, tart red berries that are a staple in Nordic foods. They grow in many forests in the fall, and are often eaten as a jam or just as they are.
Lingonberries’ high antioxidant content help protect against sun damage and pollution.
Lingonberry extract is often used in skincare products to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help with skin elasticity. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it ideal for soothing sensitive or irritated skin and brightening spots.
Nordic brands using lingonberry in their products:
2. Cloudberries
Cloudberries are a true Nordic treasure found most often in Lapland. They contain vitamin E, A, and extremely high levels of vitamin C—more than double than oranges!
Cloudberries are popular in anti-aging skincare because of their high vitamin C content, antioxidants, and ellagitannins. Cloudberries boots the skin barrier and helps skin cell turnover, helping fight wrinkles and fine lines, keep the skin firm, and improve its elasticity.
Cloudberry oil is rich in omega fatty acids, which deeply moisturize the skin and keep it soft and hydrated. Cloudberry seed oils’ antioxidants also protect the skin agains free radicals.
Features:
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin E, A, and C
- Ellagic Acid
- Omega fatty acids
- Fibers
Skin Benefits:
- Anti-aging for skin
- Moisturizing
- Protecting skin barrier
Features:
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin C & E
- Fibers
Skin Benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Skin hydration
- Protecting skin barrier
3. Bilberries
Bilberries, or Nordic wild blueberries, are small, dark blue berries similar to blueberries. They’re packed with anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that protect your eyes and improve vision.
In skincare, bilberries help fight signs of aging by neutralizing free radicals, which can cause wrinkles and sagging skin. Bilberry extract is often used in products for sensitive skin due to its anti-inflammatory effects. It can calm redness and irritation, making it a good choice for those with rosacea or eczema.
Nordic brands using bilberry in their products:
4. Blackcurrant
Blackcurrants are a powerful ingredient for skin health due to their high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants. These nutrients help protect the skin from environmental damage, such as UV rays and pollution, by neutralizing free radicals. They also boost collagen production, which keeps the skin firm, smooth, and youthful-looking.
Blackcurrant seed oil contains omega-6 fatty acids like gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it great for soothing skin conditions like eczema, acne, and irritation. The fatty acids in blackcurrants also help lock in moisture, keeping skin hydrated, while their vitamin C content brightens and evens out skin tone.
Blackcurrants are a great natural ingredient for improving skin hydration, reducing inflammation, and fighting signs of aging.
Features:
- Vitamin C & E
- Essential fatty acids
- Antioxidants
Skin Benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hydration
- Brightening
- Boosts collagen production
- Protecting skin barrier
Nordic brands using blackcurrant in their products:
5. Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn berries are small, orange berries packed with nutrients. They’re especially high in vitamin C, omega fatty acids (including the rare omega-7), and beta-carotene.
Sea buckthorn oil is rich in fatty acids and ceramides, which nourish and moisturize the skin while strengthening its natural barrier.
Packed with antioxidants, it fights free radicals to reduce skin damage, improves circulation to calm inflammation, and supports skin regeneration, making it beneficial for various skin conditions.
Its unsaturated fatty acids enhance skin tone and texture, promoting a brighter and healthier complexion.
Features:
- Vitamin E, A, K and C
- Beta-carotene
- Omega fatty acids
- Antioxidants
Benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hydration
- Brightening
- Activates collagen production
- Protecting skin barrier
Nordic brands using sea buckthorn in their products:
Features:
- Vitamin C & E
- Antioxidants
- Omega fatty acids
- Fiber
Skin Benefits:
- Antibacterial
- Skin renewal
- Brightening
- Protecting skin barrier
6. Cranberries
Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and high in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes collagen production for healthy skin.
Cranberries are known for their brightening properties. Cranberry extract is also rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals. The vitamin C helps boost collagen to keep the skin firm.
Cranberries’ anti-inflammatory properties help reduce puffiness and redness, making them a useful for soothing and revitalizing the skin. Cranberry seed oil is also rich in omega-3, omega-6, and vitamin E, which help moisturize and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.
Nordic brands using cranberry in their products:
How to Use Nordic Berries
In Your Diet:
- Smoothies or Yoghurt: Blend any of these berries into your morning smoothie or top your yoghurt bowl for a nutrient-packed start to your day.
- Jams and Sauces: You can make delicious jams from all these berries.
- Baked Goods: Add bilberries or cloudberries to muffins, pancakes, or bread for a healthy twist.
- Salads and Snacks: Sprinkle berries like sea buckthorn or bilberries into salads or enjoy them as a quick, healthy snack.
In Your Skincare Routine:
- Products with Berry Extracts: Look for moisturizers, serums, and masks that include these Nordic berries to benefit from their hydrating and anti-aging properties.
Nordic berries are packed with nutrients that offer incredible benefits for both your body and skin. Whether you eat them or use them in your skincare routine, these superfoods can help boost your immune system, protect your heart, and give you glowing, youthful skin. With their rich antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory properties, incorporating Nordic berries into your lifestyle is a simple way to enhance your overall health and wellness.
Feeling inspired and ready to explore more? Check out our growing collection of Finnish health & beauty brands here: