The glamor and excellence of Italian culture can be found in the indulgent and luxurious beauty world. Many “made in Italy'' brands have gained cult followings for skincare and beauty products that achieve real results. You’ll notice ingredients that range from an assortment of flowers to plant products to decadent foods. Italians know how to keep it simple with fewer but higher-quality natural substances. The Italian way to live slowly with maximum enjoyment is reflected in the beauty world and we have curated a list of 7 iconic Italian skincare and beauty brands you need in your routine.
Founded by Princess Marcella Borghese, this brand is deeply rooted in its Italian heritage. Borghese produces skincare products inspired by the regenerating properties of Tuscany’s natural thermal hot springs. You may recall Borghese’s Fango Active Mud Mask as the product that launched them to fame in the beauty world in the 1980s.
There are few brands that are more symbolic of Italian excellence and timelessness than Acqua di Parma. Since 1916, the brand evokes effortless luxury through its fragrances, body, and lifestyle products. You will find that each product is produced locally and inspired by breathtaking Italian destinations and of course, the Mediterranean Sea. You can soak in the glamor of Italian summer all year round with these products.
Santa Maria Novella is one of the most historic and beautiful cosmetic brands in the world. Founded in Florence in 1221, Dominican friars began producing medications, balms, and elixirs by using medicinal herbs in a pharmacy. It wasn’t until the early 17th century that the pharmacy opened its doors to the public. Today, you can find this shop in many locations worldwide where it continues to use its original recipes producing perfumes, soaps, and creams infused with essential oils.
For over 80 years, Perlier has become a household name in Italy as a trusted and respected skincare brand for its high-quality natural ingredients. With a Biological Research Center in La Carignana, a team of scientists and agricultural specialists are dedicated to creating the most innovative and effective beauty treatments.
Founded in 1869 by the Krull family, Acca Kappa was born in an old factory in Treviso. This iconic Italian beauty brand has a wonderful selection of body care and wellness products, hairbrushes, and alluring fragrances. You can find this brand in many high-end boutiques and featured in publications highlighting top luxury brands. Acca Kappa also produces products inspired by the botanicals found in Italian gardens.
A Sicilian family secret since 1934 is what makes Giomi such a unique beauty brand. Nonna Lina experimented with nature's ingredients surrounding her and developed a formula that greatly improved the condition of her family's hair. Harvested from the Giomi family’s garden, the special hair oil contains olive oil, almond oil, and vitamin E. Today, the unisex brand features hair, skin, and body products that are 100% cruelty, paraben, and sulfate-free.
Skin&Co features a skincare approach that includes promoting a slow and steady beauty process with lasting results. Based in the rolling hills of Umbria, the brand features farm-grown natural ingredients and works alongside the University of Bologna to enhance its most obscure ingredient, the black winter truffle. This delicate ingredient is processed naturally and infused with antioxidants that promote healthier skin.
Arianna DiCicco
Arianna DiCicco is an educator and writer from California, born into an Italian American restaurant family with strong ties to her grandparents’ home in Abruzzo, Italy. She has lived in San Francisco, Rome and New York City where she’s made deep connections within the Italian communities and gained new perspectives about her own culture. With a Masters in International Education, Arianna has a love and passion for learning and educating others about Italian history & culture.