Model Citizen

What does it mean to be a model-activist? For Inga Eiriksdottir, it means a commitment to broadening discussions about causes she is passionate about and aligning with companies that stand for what she believes in. “Working with BL+ is very special,” says Eiriksdottir. “More than just being the face of the brand, we share a commitment to sustainability and a passion for the environment.”

The Swedish-born Icelandic model has graced the covers of Vogue, Elle, and Glamour, and has worked with legendary photographers Peter Lindberg, Paolo Roversi, and Steven Meisel. Alongside plus-size models Ashley Graham, Julie Henderson, Danielle Redman, and Marquita Pring, Eiriksdottir founded ALDA (which means “wave” in Icelandic), a coalition of models that aims to promote body inclusivity and diversity.

Looking back on her career, which began at the age of 14, Eiriksdottir says her greatest accomplishment was refusing to allow the modeling industry to define who she was. Instead, she did something very rare in her line of work: She steered the conversation within the industry to be more inclusive, she used her platform to make a difference, and she made her voice heard.

What are some self-care rituals you practice in your daily life?

When I was 18, I moved to New York to work in the fashion industry. It was a very intense time for me. That’s when I began practicing yoga every day. It helps me stay centered and grounded. I also play tennis, cross-country ski, and surf. And of course, swimming is a big part of our culture. When my body is active, I feel so much better.

Tell us about the ocean swimming. Do you do it in Iceland?

Yes, I’ve gotten very into swimming in the ocean. I started in January, actually. My mother got me into it. Sometimes the water temperature is -4 Celsius, so more than the exercise, it’s the mental challenge to continue to breathe and not just run out of air. It’s actually fun! And of course, the cold makes your skin feel amazing.

What makes surfing so unique in Iceland?

It’s extra special to surf here because the environment is so wild. You have seals, you have the black sand beach, the mountains and glaciers—and you see all these things when you are in the water. It’s so much more than just a white sand beach.

It’s clear that you enjoy being in nature. Tell us about your environmental activism.

My interest started years ago when I started learning about how the fashion industry is so polluting, and I wanted to find a way to improve that. But it was watching Greta Thunberg and reading the book Drawdown by Paul Hawken, in which he gives 100 solutions on how to reverse climate change, that really inspired me.

What are some of the ways you are personally trying to do your part to reverse climate change?

I live on an island, so I have to fly a lot for my work, and I have always felt bad about flying. Now I offset my flights with carbon offsets. I either pay for it myself or ask the client to pay for it. I don’t buy any new clothes except for underwear and socks. Instead, I’ll do clothing swaps with friends or shop vintage. I think that one of the most impactful changes I made was when I looked at my investments and divested from any company that was in any way supporting fossil fuels. The most important thing is to think, what is your circle of influence and how can you influence the people around you to make better choices?

How did your relationship with BL+ start?

Well, funny enough, my first encounter with Blue Lagoon Skincare was over 20 years ago, when I had just begun my modeling career. Now with BL+, the relationship goes much deeper. They are not just interested in me as a model, but also interested in what I have been working on for the past few years in terms of environmental passion.

Were you always aware of their commitment to protecting the natural world?

I was, but it was not until I visited the BL+ facility that I understood the true depth of that commitment. This is not a brand that is satisfied with surface-level action. Whether it’s a scientific discovery many decades in the making or the level of detail that goes into creating sustainable packaging, they are committed to going deep into nature and science to find the best answer, the best solutions.

All that research has led to some pretty amazing discoveries. What is your experience with BL+ products?

I was lucky to receive the serum last fall and have used it every day since. First thing in the morning, I wash my face with ice-cold water—we have the purest tap water here in Iceland. Then I use the face serum, and that’s it.

Any favorite methods for using The Serum?

I use the serum first thing in the morning and again right before bed. I apply it by putting a few drops of serum on my cheekbones, and then I press and rub it upward towards my eyes and forehead with circular movement. I finish with putting some on my neck after and use the same technique: pressing it in with upward motion.

That’s usually all the moisture I need. Depending on how my skin feels afterwards, I occasionally put moisturizer on top, but usually not. Since I started using the serum six months ago, I’ve noticed that my skin feels more moisturized and more hydrated all the time. It’s made a real difference in the health of my skin.

Well, funny enough, my first encounter with Blue Lagoon Skincare was over 20 years ago, when I had just begun my modeling career. Now with BL+, the relationship goes much deeper. They are not just interested in me as a model, but also interested in what I have been working on for the past few years in terms of environmental passion.

Were you always aware of their commitment to protecting the natural world?

I was, but it was not until I visited the BL+ facility that I understood the true depth of that commitment. This is not a brand that is satisfied with surface-level action. Whether it’s a scientific discovery many decades in the making or the level of detail that goes into creating sustainable packaging, they are committed to going deep into nature and science to find the best answer, the best solutions.

All that research has led to some pretty amazing discoveries. What is your experience with BL+ products?

I was lucky to receive the serum last fall and have used it every day since. First thing in the morning, I wash my face with ice-cold water—we have the purest tap water here in Iceland. Then I use the face serum, and that’s it.

Any favorite methods for using The Serum?

I use the serum first thing in the morning and again right before bed. I apply it by putting a few drops of serum on my cheekbones, and then I press and rub it upward towards my eyes and forehead with circular movement. I finish with putting some on my neck after and use the same technique: pressing it in with upward motion.

That’s usually all the moisture I need. Depending on how my skin feels afterwards, I occasionally put moisturizer on top, but usually not. Since I started using the serum six months ago, I’ve noticed that my skin feels more moisturized and more hydrated all the time. It’s made a real difference in the health of my skin.