The cosmetics emporium, Ingredients is the place beauty dreams are made of. The store in the Czech capital of Prague gives discerning beauty enthusiasts access to trending cosmetics, niche fragrances and cult skincare brands. Ingredients is Prague’s chicest beauty retailer and the co-founder Lukáš Loskot shares his essential guide to winter skincare.
Why did you open Ingredients in Prague?
The idea of a store selling cult beauty products was untouched territory in Prague, and before Ingredients, the only option was to shop in large chain stores that carried only big-name brands. Jakub, my business partner and I, wanted to create a space to showcase beauty products from niche brands so we decided to open Ingredients. It was fortunate timing because people had just started to get curious about niche perfume brands and to appreciate the work and artistry that goes into creating such a fragrance.
What are your fail-safe beauty hero products?
Soavissima by Profumum Roma is my signature scent. It’s a wonderfully bold amber scent, which makes it a deliciously warming fragrance for winter.
What are your favourite things to do in Prague during winter?
I love walking, even in the colder months. I live in Letná, which is a 20-minute walk from Prague city centre, and I love to walk around the neighbourhood, particularly in the beautiful Letná Park which is connected to Prague Castle. I highly recommend braving the cold weather for a walk to soak up those wonderful panoramic city views.
What products would you recommend for keeping skin in optimum condition during Prague’s cold winter weather?
Keeping skin soft and moisturised despite the harsh elements is key for me. I like to use a cleanser such as Tata Harper’s Nourishing Oil Cleanser, which is organic, seriously softening and a joy to use. Face oils are also a great way to nourish skin. The 15 Oil from Czech beauty brand Onest is a great all-rounder that suits all skin types.
What are your favourite restaurants for a cosy dinner in Prague?
My favourite for traditional, comforting Czech food, that really hits the spot when it’s chilly outside, is Kantýna. It’s housed in what was previously an old bank, so it’s an impressive space, and I can’t recommend the potato pancakes enough.
Are there any places that you like to take friends visiting from out of town?
I always take visitors to Groove Bar, as well as DOX, Prague’s Centre for Contemporary Art to see an exhibition. It’s an amazing space that showcases both Czech art alongside international works.
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