Our History
2002
After two years of formulation work, Trevor Steyn launches Esse with three refrigerated, preservative-free moisturisers; organic with African actives.
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2005
Added cleanser, toner and non-refrigerated moisturisers for a more complete skincare offering.
2008
Professional product range added after testing at a local beauty school owned by Lynelle Harrison.
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2010
Complete reformulation of the range following the first findings of the Human Microbiome Project – prebiotics, and postbiotics added.
Rebrand of the professional line.
Products begin to sell in Europe.
2012
Tyndallised probiotics incorporated.
International markets expand rapidly to include markets in the East.
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2015
Esse launches the first live probiotic skincare product. A serum containing 1 billion live probiotic microbes per millilitre.
Sensitive Range launched.
2018
First concept store launches in South Africa, and a renewed commitment to treating skin through therapists and aestheticians.
Esse begins worldwide genetic sequencing to study skin microbiomes.
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2019
Launch of foundation in 10 shades, containing prebiotic and probiotic actives.
Growth worldwide – Esse is available in 27 countries and becomes the third largest professional skincare brand in Sweden.
2021
Professional-only launch of the Clarifying Range using biotechnology to fight the root causes of acne.
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