Copenhagen is the perfect destination for a minimalist beauty experience—two fashion-forward women share their insider recommendations.

      (Image credit: Original graphic by Audrey Hedlund) Welcome to Worldly Beauty, a quarterly series where we spotlight beauty products, ingredients, and traditions that are culturally significant. To provide a comprehensive understanding, we present insights and suggestions from local experts and influencers. This column celebrates diversity and aims to uncover beauty practices and philosophies that enrich our world.

      (Image credit: Original graphic by Audrey Hedlund) Copenhagen stands out as a distinctive cultural center. Known as the City of Spires for its blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, it is also recognized for its minimalist approach to fashion, beauty, and design. Similar to other Scandinavian cities like Oslo, Copenhagen showcases sleek, efficient aesthetics often complemented by a touch of bold experimentation. Essentially, it's a fashionable, effortlessly cool place that embraces a less-is-more philosophy. In fashion, this translates to a wardrobe of high-quality essentials. Copenhagen's stylish women will tell you that a perfect white T-shirt, a timeless sweater, and a well-tailored pair of trousers can carry you far. It also includes key statement pieces, as individualism and experimentation are highly prized here, alongside vibrant colors balanced with reliable neutrals.

      When it comes to beauty, the Danish preference leans towards a simplified approach to skincare, hair, and makeup, with the lines between beauty and wellness routines often blurred. Danes are recognized for their longevity and vitality, often associated with the "slow-aging" philosophy. Whether it's braving cold water, enjoying fresh air walks, or being surrounded by green spaces, Danes have a deep connection with nature and are at the forefront of the "slow-living" trend that's gaining popularity on TikTok.

      Copenhagen is home to popular brands like Ole Henriksen, Kjaer Weis, and Tromborg, characterized by sleek packaging, skin-focused formulations, and well-organized routines. A walk through Copenhagen reveals fresh complexions, understated makeup, and naturally styled hair. To gain further insight into the Danish approach to beauty, we spoke with Copenhagen influencers Jeanette Madsen and Sidsel Alling. Jeanette is the co-founder and creative director of the fashion brand Rotate, while Sidsel is a photographer and contributing editor at Elle Denmark. They share their beauty routines, perspectives on Danish beauty philosophy, and the best local beauty shopping destinations. If a trip to Copenhagen isn’t on the cards, this is the next best thing.

      **Location**: Copenhagen, Denmark

      **Instagram**: @_jeanettemadsen

      **Title**: Co-Founder and Creative Director of Rotate

      **Would you consider yourself a minimalist or a maximalist?**

      I consider myself a minimalist, but I'm honestly not sure. I rely on tried-and-true products that have worked for me over the years and don’t frequently experiment with new items because of my sensitive skin. Nevertheless, my routine ensures that I never go to bed without cleansing and moisturizing. I aim for a home spa night once or twice a week, which includes bathtub scrubs from Ara’kai and Mantle's The Hot Ex, along with facial masks from Dr. Barbara Sturm, Augustinus Bader (their eye patches are incredible!), Tromborg, and Mantle. I dream of doing cupping at home to tackle cellulite, but so far the cup just sits there waiting!

      **What does your skincare routine look like currently?**

      As stated, I always cleanse my face before bed, using Mantle's Bare Balm right now. I prefer a cleanser that effectively removes eye makeup. It needs to be quick and easy to use at night. After cleansing, I follow up with La Mer's The Concentrate and Rejuvenating Night Cream. Before sleep, I apply a thick lip balm and hand cream. I try to dry-brush every morning before showering, but with three kids, it doesn't always happen. I never skip my face cleanse at night and currently use Rhode's Pineapple Refresh. Twice a week, I exfoliate with Mantle’s The Ex and finish with a cold shower. Again, a good body lotion post-shower is a must—I adore Mantle's The Wipp Body Cream or Amazing Space Body Balm. Recently, I’ve been loving Rhode’s Glazing Milk, Peptide Glazing Fluid, and Barrier Restore Cream, but since it’s been very cold in Copenhagen, I switched to my go-to duo—La Mer The Lifting Firming Serum and The Moisturizing Soft Cream, which my skin truly appreciates.

      **What is your makeup routine?**

      Every day I use Caia Dewy Drops—a serum foundation that blends perfectly for a natural, dewy finish—and sometimes their concealer under my eyes. I’m also a fan of Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter Foundation! Chanel's Les Beiges line has a special place in my heart; I use their powder for a consistently healthy glow. Recently introduced to Saie’s Dew Bronze, I find it perfect for subtly defining my cheek