Interview in Costume

February 1, 2017 – Marina Engervik

The Miracle Oil

Marina Engervik worked as a salesperson, but dreamed of selling her own product. When her homemade oil became a hit among friends and acquaintances, she quit her job and focused on her own miracle product.

Finnmark girl Marina Engervik (28) has always had a passion for skincare, but became allergic to synthetic ingredients after using traditional skincare products for many years. Nothing worked. She decided to fix the problem herself, and experimented with an oil at home on the kitchen counter. Marina Miracle was born.

What is Marina Miracle?

- A skin care line that is organic and free of synthetic and animal chemicals. Everything is produced in Norway. I use herbs and oils that balance the skin and provide moisture.

How did you start?

- I bought essential oils, herbal extracts and plant juices online, and logged the mixtures and how they worked in a little diary. When I found a formula that worked really well, people around me noticed improvements in my skin. Everyone wanted to try the miracle oil. I still use almost the same recipe in Herbal Face Oil , but the contents have been replaced with organic, certified ingredients.

What research is behind your brand?

- I have done allergy tests on a test panel of people with different skin types, skin diseases and skin problems. I don't launch until everyone loves the product. This way I get products that are safe and good for almost everyone. It is only those who are allergic to essential oils or other natural ingredients who cannot tolerate some of the products, but that is extremely rare.

What has been the most difficult thing about being an entrepreneur?

- Everything depends on me. It's fun, but also very demanding.

Where do you want to be in five years?

- The vision is to be among the leading skincare brands in Europe within natural and organic skincare. I want to have retailers in all major cities. I know that my products are unique. It's incredibly exciting, and I'm looking forward to everything that's going to happen in the future!

What is your best entrepreneurial tip?

- You can't do it alone. Be early to include someone who can support you along the way and keep you focused. I have had the support of my husband and my wonderful family. It's also important to be humble. Even though it's your business and idea, you don't always know best yourself.