Discover Hannes Dottir's Magic Mineral Skincare Line

Southern California’s dry, hot Mediterranean climate means I’m always looking for products for my skin that are hydrating without being too heavy. Hannes Dóttir is a small California-based skincare line that specializes in that mix which is why we had to include one of their products in our summer gift box.  The chemical-free, mineral-based products are super effective at purifying and cleaning the skin without leaving it feeling stripped. While the line currently consists of just three products—a mask, toner, and moisturizer—there are some exciting releases in the pipeline. To that end, caught up with Hannes Dóttir founder, Janis Kristjanson to talk about why she first started the line, how the products work, and what’s coming up next. XXJKE

Rip & Tan: Where is Hannes Dóttir based and when did it first launch?

Janis Kristjanson: Hannes Dóttir first launched 25 years ago in North Hollywood by accident. I was meditating in twilight before sleep, and had a vision of a list of ingredients appear before my closed eyes, the first being Icelandic sea kelp. I could feel the presence of my Icelandic father in the room with me. I felt compelled by my dad to get up and write it down immediately. For the next year, friends and neighbors tested each formula until it was absolutely perfect. Every single one of them was so thrilled and looked so much younger that their friends starting arriving on my doorstep asking if they could get some of the magical “green goo”! Seamasque was born!

Rip & Tan: How has the brand grown since it first began? How did people discover the products?

JK: Up until recent press in Vogue and Glamour, Hannes Dóttir has been purely word of mouth. Clients first discovered my products by knowing me and telling their friends about the line.

Rip & Tan: Where do you source your ingredients, or how do you collect them?

JK: Our ingredients are sourced from the finest purveyors on earth. Our kelp comes straight from the volcanic fjords of Iceland, collected by row boats as to not tarnish the waters with even a drop of toxins. The kelp is dried with the same mineral-rich geothermal heat that feeds Iceland’s famous mineral baths. The kelp remains absolutely pure and active. Our essential oils are sourced from an organic farm, direct to our lab.

Rip & Tan: The Seamasque is incredible. What makes it different than other facial treatments out there?

JK: The formula contains the magic. With only five ingredients it is completely pure and simple, yet packs some major power. With just one use you’ll notice a resurfaced, baby-soft texture to the skin, a tighter lifted complexion, and even tone. It’s truly the best around.

Rip & Tan: How are the mineral mist and elixir of minerals different? How are they used?

JK: The Elixir of Minerals and Mineral Mist are best used together to be your complete moisturizer, day and night, no creams needed. After using the Seamasque or cleansing skin—with our soon to be released powdered mineral wash—apply Mineral Mist liberally, then place 1-2 pumps of Elixir in your palm, rub between hands, and apply it evenly over you face and neck. You’ll feel the amazing sensation of total hydration, and a tightened complexion.

Rip & Tan: Why are minerals important for our skin?

JK: Minerals are vital to skin and life. Everything our skin and body needs for optimal health can be found in nature. Our formulas don’t rely on synthetics or chemicals, and are packed with micronutrients rarely utilized by the industry. All ingredient in our formulas are edible and are vital to proper cell function.  

Rip & Tan: What wellness or beauty rituals do you swear by?

JK: I make sure to incorporate pure marine collagen in my diet. By age 30, collagen depletes from the body at about 1% per year, and the only way to build and repair collagen is by incorporating it and supporting minerals into your diet. 

Rip & Tan: It looks like you’re adding several new products to the line. What brought that on? What are you most excited about from the new assortment?

JK: We are most excited about our new and revolutionary dry powder wash. Put a teaspoon in your palm, add a few drops water, massage into skin, and literally wash your pores away! It smells gorgeous and leaves skin satiny, and perfectly prepped for Mineral Mist and Elixir of Minerals. It’s truly divine.

Rip & Tan: What are your goals for Hannes Dóttir in the future?

JK: When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you make others feel good.  We want to continue to transform people’s complexions and help build confidence and happiness worldwide. 

Photos: Brittany Wood