Woman’s Day beauty editor Mary Zavaglia headed to Denmark to interview ‘facialist to the stars’ Ole Henriksen, the LA-based Dane who advises Mary on skincare, and Soren Hedegaard, the Princess’s personal make-up artist.
Ole Henriksen is the man responsible for Princess Mary’s healthy, glowing complexion.
His products are delivered to the Palace, and when Ole is in Denmark for his numerous TV appearances he is invited there to meet with the Princess. Now he shares his special skincare tips with us …
What do you love most about Princess Mary?
I love her natural beauty, and that is what all Danes love about her. They are into a natural look, more so than other parts of the world.
For example, Princess Mary invited me to lunch ? and she greeted me totally free of make-up, totally groomed, perfectly shaped eyebrows, stunning eyes, beautiful skin, gorgeous, freshly shampooed hair that moves … Everything was about romance and naturalness.
Her body language was very feminine ? the way she draped her body on the sofa. She always has eye contact and she spoke only in Danish ? fluently, with no ifs or buts. She speaks beautifully, and you sense she cares about people in her path. The staff love her, too.
When I walked around the Palace with Princess Mary, she wore high heels and was dressed in a beautiful velvet tuxedo. With her fashion sense and her perfect figure, she is the Danish fashion ambassador.
How often do you go to the Palace?
I can’t really divulge too much, but I am invited soon as Princess Mary wants to say thank you for the way her skin looks. She has told me that she has never received so many compliments on her complexion.
You must be proud that her skin looks so good …
When I have a happy customer, whether it is her or anyone else, I feel fantastic. But I also believe Princess Mary has a glowing complexion because she is in love!
Ole, what are your skincare principles?
Keep it simple ? less is more. I advise my clients to use products with high concentrations of antioxidants and natural active ingredients, which results in firmer, smoother, even-pigmented skin.
I also believe in stimulating the skin with refreshing water, rinseable cleansers and scrubs. Lastly, use a daily moisturiser and eye cream.
And what are your top five products?
Ole Henriksen Pure Perfection Anti-Aging Creme, 57g, $99.
Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster, 30ml, $82.
Ole Henriksen Invigorating Night Gel ? Firming Treatment, $69.
Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation ? Renewing Creme, $58.
Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel, $85.
Tell us about your book, which has just come out in Denmark.
It is about living in the moment and how to stay in touch with your senses. I cover the topics of wellness, including diet, exercise and keeping your life simple. This is my first book and I am happy to say it will be translated into English and next launched in Australia.
You travel a lot. Any travel tips for us?
Yes. I always bring my own food on board ? I think plane food drags you down and makes you feel tired. I slather my hands with hand cream that has a rosemary aroma, which is very uplifting. I also use my Blackcurrant Complexion Oil, which gives skin a beautiful gloss. And my Fresh Lips is a must-have. It stops chapping and drying of the lips.
Would you consider doing a kids’ range?
Definitely. Parents ask, “What can I use from your range for my children?” I suggest the Clarifying Body Wash, as it is 100 percent soft and soothing ? and my Lavender Body Oil, which can be used on rashes.
Have you bought a gift for Prince Christian?
Yes, I have bought a fun swimsuit and of course I will bring the Princess a copy of my book!
Is Mary in your book?
No, I did not take such a liberty as to ask her. I respect her desire for privacy. But she is a very available person with a great memory of places and people.
Who would have thought? She met this guy and a few years later she’s a Princess. And this is the oldest monarchy in the world. She’s part of an amazing history.
When I met her last time, she was about to meet President Bush, but that’s just like another person. I mean, for her now, if it isn’t Queen Elizabeth, it’s President Bush or whoever!
Mary watch
As well as weekly coverage in Woman’s Day magazine, there will also be regular Mary updates on our website throughout the week, so check back regularly for the latest on all things Mary!
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