The Interview: Narcyss founder Gustaf Törling on his beauty and wellness brand for the ‘modern citizen’

Gustaf Törling, Founder of Narcyss, felt that there was something missing from the market in terms of self-care, so set out to create his own brand of beauty and wellness products for the ‘modern citizen’. “…it’s ok to enjoy a Negroni or two at dinner and to do yoga in the morning, it’s ok to do what you can to age in a healthy way, not in an ‘anti’ way”, says Törling.  I couldn’t have put it better myself.

Narcyss creates clinically-proven high-performance skincare and wellness products in its boutique lab in Paris and manufactures in Lille, using a small-batch production method to ensure a high level of quality and detail.

Gustaf, please give me an overview of your background and what led you to create Narcyss.

I’ve worked as a Creative Director within the fashion and beauty industry for over 20 years, mainly in New York, on brands like Gucci, Tom Ford, Estée Lauder, Jil Sander and many more. After years in New York’s demanding fashion world, I realized that true success isn’t just about the next campaign—it’s about longevity, balance, and setting the right example for my three kids. And yes—looking your best, always.

When I moved back to Europe in 2019, beauty and wellness had evolved from sideinterests into essentials. Yet I couldn’t find a brand I could truly relate to—so I created one. And voilà: Narcyss.

You have a refreshing approach to men’s beauty and the wellness space within it. I read that you ‘celebrate balance’. What do you mean by this?

Wellness isn’t about chasing perfection or endless marathons—it’s about balance. A little indulgence, a little discipline, and a lot of living. At Narcyss we say, “for a life well lived,” which for us means everything in moderation is good for you, more or less.

Late night dinner with too much wine? Yoga session in the morning. Worked into the night and can’t be bothered to wash your face? Hydrate with a mask the next day. Yoga, meditation, mindful eating, fashion, skincare—these aren’t indulgences anymore; they’re everyday essentials. Life is for living, without rules. That’s what we call modern wellness.

Let’s talk products and formulations. Can you give me a run-down of the range and the formulations used?

Every formulation begins with a single mantra: Protect & Repair.

We blend clinically backed actives with no-fuss routines, so each product slips effortlessly into your day, delivers a rich sensory hit, and—most importantly—works.

Every product is crafted with intention, not haste—in boutique labs in Paris and Stockholm, then small-batch produced in Lille, Varberg, and Seoul. Slow by design, potent by nature.

Our formulas use a powerful blend of adaptogens, vitamins, and hyaluronic acid designed to renew, restore, and revitalize your skin.

What are the bestsellers in the range?

Our pure skincare products—cleansers, moisturisers, and scrubs—are cult favorites because they combine high efficacy with a beautiful sensory experience.

And then there’s “Le Fix,” our sheet mask. Pro tip: keep it in the freezer. Trust me, there’s no better wake-up call than Le Fix on a sleepless morning.

We also have a wash line, both for body and hands. They look great in your shower or by your bathroom sink, and we crafted a scent reminiscent of the golden age of fragrance—the ’90s. I love them.

Looking at marketing, who is your customer and what’s your customer acquisition strategy?

Narcyss started as something I created for myself and my circle—people living fast-paced, urban lives who wanted skincare with as much personality as efficacy. That community is still our heartbeat.

We’ve built a strong following of likeminded individuals through word of mouth, glowing feedback from international press, and a presence in some of Europe’s most credible retailers, both digital and brick-and-mortar. We’re growing slow and focused, with the intent to become a global beauty player for men.

Your recent collaboration with Chimi was the perfect brand-alignment. What’s your strategy when it comes to brand partnerships—and is there anything exciting in the works?

We couldn’t have asked for a better partnership! Chimi embodies the Narcyss lifestyle, and the idea of “Full Facial Protection” was, to me, a homerun.

Collaborations are a cornerstone of building a brand, but for us they only work if we align on both ethos and commerce. If it feels forced, we won’t do it. Authenticity ages well—fads don’t.

We’ve got a few things cooking that I’m very excited about, but it’s too early to spill the beans.

Men’s beauty has evolved very well, but I’m still seeing men—even stylish men—say things like “I don’t wash my face.” What’s your view on the current men’s beauty space?

I don’t see reluctance as a problem—I see it as an opportunity. Our mission is simple: to make self-care irresistible.

I wasn’t a skincare connoisseur when I started, but I knew I wanted to take care of myself—inside and out. By creating a brand that looks great, feels great, and smells great, I convinced myself to take wellness seriously. Hopefully, that inspires others to do the same.

Finally, what can we expect from Narcyss in the next year?

This is just the beginning. We’ve got a wide array of products lined up that I can’t wait to share. First up: two new deodorants, No1 and No2. I’m happy to report they work brilliantly—I road-tested them during a steamy July on Hydra, and they passed with flying colours.

Stay tuned. Great things are coming.