Danish skincare legend Ole Henriksen, 74, spills what Queen Mary is really like ‘off duty’ – and his clever diet and anti-ageing secrets

When it comes to skincare, Ole Henriksen is the guy.

Despite the industry exploding in recent years, Ole’s namesake brand remains one of the best-selling in the world – and for good reason. The products are fun to look at, smell fantastic and work… really well.

A former dancer turned cosmetic chemistry graduate and esthetician, Ole started off with his own spa in 1975 and has since worked with the likes of Barbra Streisand, Cher, Madonna, Diana Ross and Hugh Jackman.

Now at 74, the infectiously dynamic Danish guru is reflecting on how consumers have changed, his absolute beauty ‘musts’, his diet and fitness ethos and what it was like to work with Queen Mary over the years. 

‘I met Queen Mary decades ago when she first moved to Denmark,’ Ole tells FEMAIL.

‘She is the kindest, most beautiful, most caring individual anyone could possibly dream of meeting and I had the honour of working on charity projects with her for years.

‘What we all know about her around the globe is how chic and stylish she is, and yet how warm and personable she is. She’s kind to children, she’s a great mother – an example across the board with all her beautiful values.’

Ole also fondly reflects on one of his favourite moments with the beloved Aussie-born royal.

‘I want to tell you a fun story. One night, I hosted the opening of the Copenhagen Fashion Week that she was the guest of. She came up on the stage and slipped on her way up,’ he recalls fondly.

‘And what happened? I grabbed her in my arms… [it was] a huge honour to hold her in my arms.’

Known for his high energy and impossibly radiant skin, Ole says there are two key non-negotiables in his routine: Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxy Acids.

‘I’m proud to say I was a pioneer incorporating various sources of Vitamin C into the Ole Henriksen Skincare range; the man I gained much knowledge from was Linus Pauling who twice won the Nobel prize for extensive research in the powers of it,’ Ole says. 

‘Therefore, I incorporate many forms of Vitamin C into my products. It is an antioxidant that delivers firmer and more resilient skin. It also helps to visibly even skin tone and helps to prevent future environmental damage.’

The AHAs fall under his Dewtopia range, which can be found, alongside all his other products, in Sephora stores globally.

‘What I love about these naturally derived acids is their ability to work at the skin’s surface, helping to loosen, lift, and literally eliminate the dead, dull, lifeless skin cells,’ he says. 

‘That results in smoother, more refined looking skin texture and as a bonus, it helps pores visibly vanish.’

When it comes to beauty on the inside, Ole is very careful with his diet and is sure to exercise daily. 

‘I’m particular with what I like,’ he explains.

‘I avoid all kinds of junk food and instead [focus] on a predominantly vegetarian diet that also includes dairy products and organic eggs. I love salads that are colorful and full of nutrients and always top them with a handful of walnuts.

‘Daily exercise is essential for my entire wellbeing. I have rings hanging from the ceiling in my office and additional equipment to give it my all. I play my favorite music on Spotify and dance in between each exercise.

‘I’ve found that my body at age 74 is as strong and agile as when I was younger. I always say, “your health is your wealth!”.’

Over the past few years, Ole has noticed a significant shift in the skincare industry – notably in the expertise of consumers.  

‘They are becoming more ingredient-savvy and with that they very much care what they put on their skin,’ he says.

‘Therefore, they also have high expectations as far as how the products perform.’

One thing they do care about, Ole says, is how best to strengthen the skin’s barrier against changing environmental elements.

His solution, unsurprisingly, is his Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturiser.

‘It has become a global best-seller for [us] because it addresses these concerns with moisture barrier building ingredients like ceramides, essential fatty acids and hyaluronic acids,’ he says.

‘These work synergistically to cushion, calm and comfort the skin.’

However, after such a significant time in the beauty and skincare space there’s one rule Ole wishes both men and women would follow more than any other: be consistent with how you treat your skin.

‘Promise me to do that,’ he says.

‘Relax into the moment every morning by first giving yourself a big smile in the mirror and then feel the energy of your hands as you work in your products. That way, you get the greatest benefits. 

‘And then, of course, when you’ve done that, give yourself yet another smile.

‘Then you’re ready for another beautiful day.’