minimalist bodycare connected to nature

the brand

The Bar Minimum, an organic and minimalist bodycare brand, was born from the notion that less is more with regard to both beauty regimes and our environment. There is the concern about time and resources, but also with the impact of the ingredients on both the skin and the environment, as well as of the residual waste.

The brand is rooted in the concept of Scandinavian minimalism, circularity, and the beauty of the African bush. We strive to create anhydrous (largely waterless) products that are effective, yet gentle on the skin and the environment. We aim to evoke a feeling of connection to nature and promote a sense of exploration.

our products

Inspired by the magnificent wilderness of Botswana and Southern Africa, the goal was to build a brand for eco-conscious travellers who value simplicity, catering for their essential needs in relation to body care.

Which are the bare minimum key products you would need on a safari to care for your skin and to feel good, whilst you enjoy the unique environment? This was the inspiration behind the first product range. These products are primarily based on locally sourced ingredients such as the butters of cocoa and mango, as well as the oils of ximenia, mongongo, Kalahari melon seed, baobab and marula. This is in order to showcase the beauty of Southern Africa and to support local communities in their production of these ingredients, as well as to minimise the carbon footprint of transportation.

the beauty of Southern Africa

Photograph by Per Erik Bergh

product development

The brand’s product development is guided by two key concepts – skinimalism and circular beauty.

Skinimalism

Skinimalism is about simple bodycare routines and using what your skin needs, not more – for example by supporting our natural skin barrier and the skin’s microbiome (the helpful microorganisms living on our skin). Fewer but better ingredients. Simple and significant routines. This minimalist approach is also good for the environment, using fewer and natural/organic ingredients, and minimal packaging.

Circular Beauty

Circular Beauty means that the products are designed to ensure there is no waste at the end of the product’s life cycle. This does not just mean no packaging waste but also no chemical residue polluting water and the environment. The ingredients used should not negatively impact the environment and the packaging should either be reused or repurposed at the end of its life.

our mission

At this point in time – and despite all beauty trends coming and going – we know that current levels of consumerism are damaging to our environment, and more generally, to life on this planet.

Interestingly, excessive consumption of skincare can also be damaging to the skin. So, whether you care about your skin, our planet or both, as beauty consumers we should adopt a simpler approach – consuming less and wasting less. This is good for both the planet and our skin.