Ace-Skincare

Fjaka Captured in a Bottle

With the winter solstice behind us, it’s time to recharge our batteries as we step towards spring

Similar to the Danish tradition of hygge and Japanese ikigai, Croatian fjaka – pronounced fyaka – has no direct translation, it’s simply the ‘sweetness of doing nothing’. Not to be mistaken for laziness, the term encourages you to do what you love – yoga, a brisk walk by the sea or inhaling the cool, aromatic air as you’re casually wandering through the woods. Created for time-stressed people with a passion for wellbeing, Saint Iris Adriatica’s skincare range (siadriatica.com) is inspired by the abundant plants, remedies and sea spas of the sun-drenched Adriatic. “I wanted to translate this sense of euphoria to the bathroom, so you’re able to follow your fjaka on-the-go,” says founder, Sanela Lazic. “Sitting in the luxury space between apothecary, provenance, wellbeing and indulgence, all products are designed to take the strains of everyday life – taking practical sensuality to a whole new level of utter bliss.”

“Practising a slower, kinder beauty regime, while paying as much attention to the body as the face, is at the heart of fjaka wellbeing,” explains Sanela. “Your skin can become stressed if you’re throwing too many conflicting products at it, resulting in reactionary skincare choices rather than finding the root cause. Yet, the answer is simple. Applying fewer and higher quality products can leave you with a glowing, youthful, healthy complexion.”

To create the natural fjaka feeling with your own beauty routine, divert attention from the face. The body is your powerhouse, so start treating it like a temple. “We’re currently living in what’s called the ‘selfie’ mode – constantly existing only in our heads,” says Sanela. “Start embracing the slowness of drifting off to sleep. It can help regulate the skin’s pH levels and reduce inflammation which is why you can look fresh and more radiant after a good night’s slumber.”

When you start focusing on your body, skincare is more about you, so start setting aside some vital ‘me time’. “Croatians believe that by taking care of oneself, only then can we take care of others and the world around us. This may be considered selfish, but fjaka is all about sustaining your own wellbeing – even if it is just for 15 minutes.” Slathering Saint Iris Adriatica’s warming Purity Paste (£48, siadriatica.com) to the face and body can transform decongested and dull looking skin, leaving it radiant and purified. Alternatively, try turning your bathroom into a self-care sanctuary – light candles, display lush plants and skincare products. This will all bring an element of joy to your daily routine and help create that fjaka vibe.

Call it mindfulness in action or simply a state of delight, fjaka comes naturally from living in the now and loving the feeling. With its sensual textures and uplifting, natural scent, Saint Iris Adriatica delivers this whenever, and wherever you need it.