A Family Affair: Interviewing Team Dr. Joseph Organic Skincare

We are so excited to be chatting with a natural skincare brand that was such a pioneer in the space! Team Dr. Joseph started back in 1986 when we would imagine the idea of “clean” skincare wasn’t as widely thought of – can you tell us a bit about the inception of the brand? 

When we started our business nearly four decades ago, the world was about disposables, glitter and plastic. It was about growth and success, regardless of the consequences. The impact on the climate and on future generations was not taken into consideration. Resources were seen as infinite and recycling was something nobody cared about. That was when our founder, Dr. Joseph, initiated the first toxic waste collection in South Tyrol. It was also around this time that Dr. Joseph was offered an artificial knee joint as the only option after a sports accident. Out of a personal need, he searched for an alternative and studied herbal medicine at the University of Pharmacology in Urbino. There he found not only fascinating active ingredients, but also a cure, as he still does not have an artificial knee joint. He then began to create his own botanical extracts and first skincare products. Little did he know that one day there would be a need for certifications to help consumers tell the difference between “real” and supposedly natural cosmetics. Nearly forty years later, we still believe in the genius of nature. For us at TEAM DR JOSEPH, it has always been the world’s most intelligent laboratory.

How did your founder, Dr. Joseph Franz, think of chemicals and conventional skincare in the 1980’s? 

Given that Dr. Joseph Franz was a pioneer in the field of natural skincare and focused primarily on finding the best natural ingredients and products when he founded the company in 1986, his views on chemicals and conventional skincare in the 1980s were quite different from the mainstream. 

In the 1980s, the skincare industry was dominated by conventional products that often contained a variety of synthetic chemicals. Skin health was not a topic at all. The trend at that time didn’t emphasize natural or organic ingredients as much as it does today. However, Dr. Joseph, deeply invested in the search for natural solutions, viewed these conventional products and their chemical compositions with a degree of skepticism or critical evaluation. He focused on the microbiome and skin health believed in the efficacy and safety of organic, less processed substances for skin health. His approach was considered unconventional at the time. Even then, he was concerned about the long-term effects of synthetic chemicals on skin and overall health and believed that nature offered more harmonious and holistic skin care solutions. This perspective set him apart at a time when the broader industry and consumer base were not focused on the potential drawbacks of synthetic chemicals in skincare products. His commitment to natural ingredients was not just a preference but a fundamental aspect of his vision for skincare, prioritizing the health and well-being of the skin in its natural state, supported by naturally derived ingredients. He was convinced that nature is the world’s most intelligent laboratory. We just have to discover and engage with the genius that she possesses.

How did Dr. Joseph develop the world’s first Hightech Natural Cosmetics?

Dr. Joseph’s development of our world’s first Hightech Natural Cosmetics® is a fascinating journey that intertwines a deep respect for nature with advanced scientific innovation. At the core of Dr. Joseph’s approach is the strong belief that nature itself is the most intelligent high-tech laboratory. This philosophy guided the development process, focusing on harnessing the complex, naturally occurring compounds and processes found in the environment. Dr. Joseph recognized that nature, through millions of years of evolution, has developed highly efficient and effective mechanisms and ingredients. The development began with extensive research into natural ingredients that have potent healing, regenerative, and beautifying properties. He meticulously selected botanicals, herbs, and natural extracts known for their exceptional skin benefits. The focus was on purity and potency, ensuring that the raw materials were of the highest quality. Utilizing state-of-the-art extraction methods was crucial in preserving the integrity and maximizing the effectiveness of natural ingredients. These methods, often borrowed from pharmaceutical and biotech industries, allowed for the extraction of powerful bioactive components without compromising their natural properties.

Biotechnology played a significant role in enhancing the efficacy of natural ingredients. Through biotechnological processes, active ingredients were optimized and bio-engineered to achieve maximum skin compatibility and effectiveness. This innovative blend of biotechnology with natural extracts is what set Dr. Joseph’s cosmetics apart as ‘Hightech Natural.’ Creating a harmonious blend of natural ingredients with advanced technology required exceptional formulation expertise. Today, our team of herbalists, chemists and cosmetic formulators works meticulously to create formulations that not only deliver potent skin benefits but also maintain stability and usability. This involved overcoming challenges related to preserving natural ingredients and ensuring their synergistic interaction. Integral to the development process was a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. This meant ethically sourcing ingredients, employing environmentally friendly production methods, and ensuring that the entire product lifecycle was sustainable. To validate the efficacy of these Hightech natural cosmetics, our products underwent rigorous clinical testing. This ensured that they not only met but exceeded the performance standards expected in high-end cosmetics, offering tangible benefits while remaining gentle and natural. Through this innovative approach, we successfully developed TEAM DR JOSEPH, the world’s first Hightech Natural Cosmetics®, a line that embodies the synergy of nature’s wisdom with cutting-edge science, offering consumers effective, natural, and sustainable beauty solutions.

What are “biotechnological ingredients” and why are they so effective? 

Biotechnology in skincare represents an innovative approach to developing highly effective and sustainable ingredients. Biotechnological ingredients in skincare refer to components that are produced using biotechnology, a field that combines biology with technology, often involving the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, or cellular components like enzymes. These methods allow the creation of highly effective and specific ingredients that can be tailored to different skincare needs. These ingredients are typically developed using advanced scientific methods such as fermentation, biocatalysis, or enzymatic extraction. Fermentation, for example, uses microorganisms to convert raw materials into more complex compounds, improving the bioavailability and efficacy of skincare ingredients. In our formulations, we use bioengineered hyaluronic acid, which is produced by fermenting certain yeasts. 

Biotechnology in skincare is promising for several reasons. It allows for a sustainable supply chain, reducing the reliance on natural resources and minimizing ecological impacts. This approach also addresses ethical concerns by mitigating issues related to the overharvesting and exploitation of natural habitats, ensuring responsible and sustainable ingredient production. One of the most significant advantages of biotechnological ingredients is their high purity and effectiveness. These ingredients are specifically tailored for various skin concerns, offering more targeted and efficient results. Often developed to mimic natural skin components, such as hyaluronic acid, these ingredients can lead to better absorption and integration with the skin’s natural processes, enhancing the effectiveness of the products. Furthermore, biotechnology ensures safety and consistency in skincare products. Ingredients developed in controlled lab environments have uniform quality and efficacy, crucial for maintaining high safety standards and consistent product performance. This level of control and precision is challenging to achieve with traditional extraction methods. Additionally, the environmental footprint of biotechnological ingredients is much smaller compared to traditional methods. They require lower energy consumption, reduce waste, and eliminate the need for large-scale agricultural land use, making them a more sustainable and eco-friendly option. Biotechnology in skincare is not just about creating superior products but also about innovating for a sustainable future. It offers novel solutions and ingredients that might be impossible to produce through conventional methods, marking a significant advancement in skincare technology and sustainability. For all these reasons, we use several biotech ingredients in our products.

We know the line is handmade in Italy – can you tell us what skincare that is made by hand looks like in comparison to a brand that might manufacture more technically?

The foundation of our brand identity is our unique approach to cosmetics manufacturing. In a world where mass production is the norm, our commitment to in-house manufacturing sets us apart and gives us unparalleled control over the quality of our products. With over 40 years of experience in manufacturing certified natural cosmetics, we draw on a wealth of experience. Our products are developed, formulated and manufactured with great care by our team of skin experts, herbalists and cosmetic formulators in our in-house production and research laboratory in Italy. Our careful, hands-on approach ensures that each product is crafted with exceptional attention to detail, imbuing it with a level of care and precision that mass-produced items often lack. Our smaller-scale production also allows us to use ingredients that may be too delicate or perishable for large-scale production, opening the door to more innovative and unique formulations and textures. This flexibility fosters the creation of custom and niche products that meet specific and varied customer needs. Sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the core of our operations. We prioritize locally sourced ingredients, minimal packaging and environmentally friendly production techniques. Our commitment to these values is reflected in our ISO certification and our focus on producing primarily organic certified products. An inherent charm of handmade products is their uniqueness – slight variations in texture, color and scent from batch to batch are not only expected, but celebrated, as they reflect the natural diversity of our raw materials and the human touch in their creation. This is the essence of our brand, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern, eco-conscious practices to create truly exceptional, effective skincare products.

Can you tell us a bit about your holistic approach to skincare? 

Our comprehensive approach to skincare considers multiple factors in both our product formulation and treatment development, recognizing the individual as an entirety, rather than focusing solely on the skin’s surface. This method incorporates an understanding of the interconnectedness of bodily systems, health, and lifestyle, with a particular emphasis on the skin’s direct relationship with various organs and its role as an indicator of overall health. The premise is that skin conditions can be external manifestations of internal imbalances, such as stress, diet, and hormonal fluctuations, highlighting the need for a strategy that addresses root causes rather than just symptoms.

Central to our philosophy is the prioritization of natural and organic ingredients over synthetic chemicals that may be detrimental to both skin and general health.

Additionally, we explore the profound impact of tactile interaction on the central nervous system. Techniques like massages and the method of skincare application are integral to our approach, enhancing circulation and nutrient delivery to the skin while also stimulating the nervous system to alleviate stress and foster a sense of wellness. Our signature treatments are tailored to each individual’s unique constitution, optimizing the therapeutic experience through personalized touch, pace, and pressure.

The role of olfactory elements is also vital in our approach. Essential oils, chosen for their therapeutic properties, serve not only the skin but also influence mental health. Specific aromas can encourage relaxation, diminish stress, and elevate mood, which, in turn, benefits the skin. Our fragrance selection is meticulously curated to support the desired holistic wellness objectives.

Acknowledging the mind-skin connection, we understand that psychological factors can exacerbate skin conditions and vice versa. Therefore, in addition to the topical use of our products and regular spa visits and massages, we recommend stress management, adequate sleep and regular exercise or techniques such as meditation, yoga or other relaxation techniques. 

The importance of social connections is often underestimated in skincare. The link between social connections and skin health is rooted in the complex interplay between psychological and physiological processes in the body. While social relationships may not be the first factor that comes to mind when considering skin health, they contribute to reduced stress, improved immunity, healthier lifestyle choices, psychological well-being, better sleep, and hormonal balance, all of which can have a significant impact on maintaining healthy skin.

Nutrition’s role in skin health cannot be overstated, reinforcing the necessity of a holistic skincare regimen that extends beyond surface treatments. A nutrient-rich diet supports skin repair, elasticity, and combats aging signs. Moreover, the gut-skin axis highlights the critical influence of gut health on skin condition, where a balanced gut microbiome can mitigate inflammation and prevent common skin issues.

In conclusion, our holistic skincare approach is multifaceted, targeting not just the skin but also diet, lifestyle, mental well-being, and the importance of natural ingredients. This philosophy recognizes that vibrant skin is a reflection of overall physical and mental health.

And how do you focus on using a healthy environment to create a successful business? 

At TEAM DR JOSEPH, we are deeply committed to the principle that a thriving environment underpins successful business practices. In an era where the drive for economic growth often overlooks environmental considerations, the repercussions of such a narrow focus are becoming increasingly evident worldwide. Recognizing this, we align our business strategy with a commitment to environmental health, understanding that true success encompasses sustainable development and the well-being of our planet.

As a certified B Corporation, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Our practices reflect a profound dedication to not only minimizing our impact on the environment but also actively contributing to its preservation. This includes achieving plastic neutrality and compensating for our carbon emissions, including Scope 3 emissions. Including Scope 3 emissions means we take into account not just the direct emissions from our operations (Scope 1) and the indirect emissions from the energy we purchase (Scope 2), but also all other indirect emissions that occur in our value chain. This encompasses emissions from activities such as the production of purchased materials, transportation of purchased goods, and even the use of the products we sell. By addressing Scope 3, we acknowledge our responsibility for emissions beyond our immediate operations, offering a holistic view of our environmental impact.

From the outset, we have integrated environmentally sustainable practices into the core of our operations. We prioritize renewable energy sources, waste reduction, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. Our product and service offerings are designed to be environmentally friendly without compromising on quality, setting us apart in the marketplace. This strategic focus not only reduces our environmental footprint but also attracts a customer base that values sustainability alongside product excellence.

In our branding and marketing, we leverage our environmental commitments to strengthen consumer loyalty and enhance our brand’s reputation. In today’s market, where consumers increasingly base their purchasing decisions on a company’s environmental stance, our authentic and transparent green marketing initiatives foster a strong and loyal customer following.

We also cultivate a workplace environment that emphasizes sustainability and employee well-being. This includes adopting green office practices, promoting sustainable commuting options, and ensuring a healthy work-life balance. A content and engaged workforce is pivotal to our success, contributing to productivity and commitment.

To stay at the forefront of environmental trends and regulations, we are committed to innovation and adaptability in our business models and practices. Whether through investing in new technologies, exploring sustainable business models, or adapting to evolving environmental regulations, our proactive stance enhances our resilience and positions us for long-term success. 

Our involvement in community and environmental initiatives further solidifies our public image and community relations. Through sponsorships and partnerships with environmental organizations, we not only contribute positively to the community and environment but also build brand goodwill and recognition.

We are diligent in ensuring that our supply chain reflects our environmental values, selecting suppliers who practice sustainability and considering the environmental impact of logistics and transportation. A sustainable supply chain not only reduces our environmental footprint but also appeals to environmentally conscious consumers and partners.

Our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement is evidenced by our regular reporting on the environmental impact of our operations. For example, we implemented a live energy control system that allows us to monitor and manage our energy consumption in real time. This advanced capability allows us to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste and optimize our energy use across our operations, significantly reducing our environmental footprint.

By intertwining economic success with environmental responsibility, TEAM DR JOSEPH champions a business model that not only thrives financially but also makes a positive contribution to the environment. This approach aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainability, reinforcing our commitment to creating sustainable value for all.

We know that a respect and love for nature is integral to the brand – can you tell us a bit about how the line connects to and supports the natural world? 

Our respect and love for the natural world is multifaceted and deeply rooted in every aspect of our product line. It does not follow a trend but feeds on our deeply rooted values, since 1986. We connect with and support the natural world in many ways, with complete transparency in an industry where greenwashing is the norm.

Sourcing of Ingredients: we prioritize the use of organic, naturally-derived ingredients, sourced from sustainable farms and suppliers, as well as wild collection. This ensures that the products are free from harsh chemicals, pesticides, and synthetic additives, which can be harmful to the environment. By choosing ingredients that are grown and harvested with respect for nature, we help in preserving biodiversity and ecological balance.

Eco-friendly Packaging: We need to understand the impact of packaging on the environment. While 9 out of 10 products from the top-selling beauty brands contain plastic*, we use recyclable and biodegradable packaging materials and keep plastic in our packaging to an absolute minimum. This reduces our carbon footprint and helps minimize waste in landfills. In addition, our use of minimalist and efficient packaging design further reduces our environmental impact.

* Source: Euromonitor, 2018

Cruelty-free Practices: Our commitment to being cruelty-free resonates with our respect for all living beings. By not testing products on animals and choosing suppliers who adhere to the same principles, we ensure ethical treatment of animals and support the movement against animal cruelty in the beauty industry. We are certified cruelty-free and vegan by Peta.

Supporting Environmental Causes: Part of our revenue is dedicated to supporting environmental causes and initiatives. This includes tree planting drives, ocean cleanup projects, or partnerships with organizations focused on conservation and sustainability. This not only contributes to our direct impact on the environment but also raises awareness among consumers.

Educational Initiatives: We engage in educating our consumers and partners about the importance of natural and organic skincare, and the broader impact of sustainable living. Through social media, blogs, and trainings in our in-house training academy, we encourage a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature.

Innovation in Formulations: Continuous research and development in creating formulations that are both effective and eco-friendly is a cornerstone of our brand. This involves exploring new, sustainable ingredients and production methods that have a lower environmental impact.

Seed Your Future: To support the preservation of biodiversity, our brand has initiated the “Seed Your Future” project. This unique endeavor features a specially curated mix of European seeds, encompassing a diverse range of flowers. These flowers are specifically chosen for their ability to offer nourishment and habitat to a myriad of bees, butterflies, and other insects. Annually, during the planting season, we take pride in distributing these seed mixes at no cost to our valued customers. We actively encourage them to plant these seeds, aiding in the creation of vibrant flower meadows. This initiative not only aids in sustaining essential pollinators but also fosters a deeper connection between our customers and the natural world.

By integrating these practices, we do not just offer products, but also embody a philosophy that respects and nurtures the natural world and contributes positively to the planet.

Do you think time spent in nature can contribute to wider health benefits for skin and body? 

As a company born in the midst of nature and the world’s natural heritage, the Dolomites, we have always felt a strong connection with nature. As children we used to spend time in the herbal garden of our father Dr. Joseph, running around and guessing the names of the various plants that our father had planted in his experimental garden. These early experiences certainly led us, Lena, Viktor and Fabian, to return to our father’s company after completing our studies in philosophy, economics, and architecture abroad.

We are convinced that spending time outdoors is part of human nature and can contribute significantly to both skin and overall body health, offering a range of benefits. Exposure to nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which can have a positive impact on skin health. While stress can exacerbate skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis, reducing stress by spending time in nature can help alleviate these conditions. When outdoors, exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for skin and overall health. It plays a critical role in skin repair and metabolism and is important for maintaining healthy bones and immune function. The increased blood flow that occurs when you are outdoors helps to nourish skin cells and remove waste products, contributing to a healthier complexion. In general, air quality is also better in natural, green environments than in urban areas. Cleaner air means less exposure to pollutants and toxins that can damage skin and overall health. Natural environments expose people to a wider variety of microorganisms, which can benefit the skin and gut microbiome. This diversity can strengthen the immune system and potentially improve skin health. Natural scents, such as those from flowers and trees, can have a calming effect, reducing stress and contributing to a sense of well-being. Spending time outdoors, especially in natural light, can help regulate your circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep quality, which is essential for skin repair and overall health. The green color of plants also stimulates endorphins in the brain, contributing to a sense of relaxation and well-being, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, and improving mood.

In summary, nature can provide a holistic boost to health and well-being, benefiting both the skin and the body. The fact that nature still has a strong pull on us is especially evident in spring. The days are getting longer, and we can feel ourselves longing for the sun, light, and energy. We should act on this desire – even 20 minutes in nature is like a short vacation for our body.

What are some top tips from TEAM DR JOSEPH for creating a holistic approach to wellness and skincare from within? 

True beauty and health come from a balance of internal and external care. A holistic approach means understanding that the cause of an imbalance is not always immediately found where it manifests itself. The human body is a complex system, with interconnected elements where issues in one area can affect another. This approach recognizes that symptoms in one part of the body may be rooted in a completely different system or lifestyle factor. For example, persistent skin issues may not just be a dermatological issue, but may be related to digestive health, stress levels, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. A holistic approach to (skin) health emphasizes looking at the person as a whole. This includes their physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. It’s about understanding the lifestyle, environment, and personal history that contribute to their current state of health.

Creating a holistic wellness routine should therefore include factors such as a balanced diet, adequate hydration, mindful movement, stress management, quality restful sleep, a skincare routine that is free of harmful ingredients and tailored to your individual skin needs, a healthy gut, and most importantly, good social relationships. 

What are some of the plant ingredients the brand loves using the most and why? 

Our brand embraces a holistic approach to skincare, selecting ingredients based on the specific needs of the skin rather than focusing on a single component. This ensures that each product is formulated to effectively address different skin concerns. However, there are some ingredients that can be found in (almost) all our products. These include biotechnological hyaluronic acid, for example, because every skin benefits from hydration. We use various biotechnological active ingredients that are obtained through fermentation with marine bacteria and microalgae, which are cultivated in special photobioreactors where they are optimally supplied with light and CO2. This unique production technology enables a very pure product with a high content and consistent quality of active substances such as amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants. One of these ingredients is Bacillus Ferment, a marine biotechnology ingredient obtained by fermenting Bacillus, a genus of rod-shaped gram-positive bacteria. This ingredient stimulates protein synthesis in the skin, restores skin firmness and tautness, stimulates the synthesis of proteins involved in mitochondrial respiration and energy production, provides an immediate lifting effect and firms the facial contour. This ingredient is used in our Supreme Eye Lifting Serum and Advanced Rejuvenating Power Treatment, among others.

And for those looking for a natural alternative to retinol without the known skin irritation, we use phyto-retinol, also known as bakuchiol. Like retinol, bakuchiol has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It helps increase collagen production, a key factor in maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. One of the major advantages of bakuchiol over traditional retinol is its suitability for sensitive skin. Retinol is known to cause irritation, redness and peeling, especially in sensitive skin types. Bakuchiol, on the other hand, provides similar benefits without these harsh side effects. You can find this ingredient in our Advanced Rejuvenating Power Treatment, Golden Glow Body Oil and Rejuvenating Body Butter. 

As part of our commitment to sustainability and innovation, we also incorporate upcycled ingredients. By using parts of plants that are typically discarded as byproducts in other industries, we not only minimize waste, but also discover unique properties that benefit the skin. These upcycled ingredients, such as prickly pear extract, which is derived from the “scratches” of plant materials, are a testament to our commitment to environmental responsibility and cutting-edge skin care science. Overall, our ingredient philosophy revolves around the synergy of nature and science, ensuring that each product is thoughtfully formulated to meet the diverse needs of the skin while upholding our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

You guys have a “well aging” line that we love – can you tell us a bit about this approach of trying to let go of the fight against aging and embracing what our skin actually needs at different times in our lives? 

Embracing the natural progression of time is at the heart of our Well Aging philosophy. We believe that aging is a journey to be celebrated, not a battle to be fought. Recognizing that the passage of time is inevitable, we focus on nurturing the skin by addressing its evolving needs at different stages of life. Our approach moves away from the traditional “anti-aging” mindset. We’ve consciously shifted our language to “Well Aging,” a term that embraces a holistic view of aging. It’s about fostering a happy and healthy mindset, feeling comfortable and confident in your skin, maintaining social connections, living a balanced lifestyle, and viewing the natural aging process not as a burden but as a reflection of a life rich in experiences and memories.

Although we do not promote the term “anti-aging,” our Well Aging products are meticulously formulated to effectively address the four major aging processes: oxidation, inflammation, glycation of collagen fibers, and hormonal changes. Therefore, our longevity products are formulated with advanced, high-tech ingredient complexes that do more than just nourish the skin. These skin-friendly ingredients stimulate collagen production, reduce muscle contractions, neutralize free radicals and are loaded with super antioxidants. In essence, they are designed to fully support your skin so it can look and feel its best at every stage of life.

How does the brand benefit from being family run? 

As a family-owned business, we operate with a long-term perspective, prioritizing sustainable growth and legacy over immediate financial gain. This allows for an unwavering commitment to our brand’s core values and mission, unlike investor-driven companies where short-term financial performance may be the primary focus. Independent ownership gives us more flexibility in decision making. Without the need to satisfy a wide range of investors, we can quickly adapt to market changes, innovate, or pivot our strategies, which can be a significant advantage in rapidly changing industries. We also maintain a very personal relationship with our customers and treat our employees as an extension of the family, fostering a nurturing and loyal work environment. As a family business, we seek stable, reliable relationships with partners who share our values, always having the long-term perspective in mind. We build our business with future generations in mind. With this mindset, you just do things differently. You try to create something that is sustainable and has a long-term positive impact.

You guys are both carbon and plastic neutral which we love – can you tell us how you achieved that as a brand? 

We have achieved both carbon and plastic neutrality through a comprehensive and dedicated approach that includes various environmental initiatives and partnerships. We are certified as plastic neutral by Plastic Bank. Plastic Bank is an organization that aims to combat plastic pollution by turning plastic waste into currency. Through our partnership with Plastic Bank, we are helping to remove an equivalent amount of plastic from the environment as we use in our business. This is done by supporting Plastic Bank’s efforts in coastal communities, where collected plastic waste is exchanged for valuable resources such as money, goods or services. This not only helps reduce plastic pollution, but also supports the livelihoods of people in underprivileged communities. By funding the collection of plastic equal to our plastic footprint, we achieve plastic neutrality.

We also work with the Green Future Project to accurately calculate our carbon footprint. This involves assessing the total amount of greenhouse gases generated directly and indirectly by our business operations. By understanding our carbon impact, we can implement targeted strategies to reduce it. Throughout the year, we actively monitor our energy usage to identify the most significant and polluting energy peaks. This data allows us to take specific actions to improve our energy efficiency and reduce our overall carbon footprint. Our business model includes investing in projects that have a significant positive impact on the environment. For example, we contribute to the protection of the Canandé Reserve in Ecuador, which is a critical area for biodiversity. We also support the planting of young mangrove trees at the Marovolavo plantation site in Madagascar, which not only helps to sequester carbon but also preserves marine ecosystems. The Green Future Project (GFP) dashboard allows us to closely monitor and track the impact of these initiatives. This includes the number of trees planted, the amount of CO2 offset, and the amount of forest protected. This transparency and real-time tracking ensures that our environmental efforts are quantifiable and effective. Satellite technology allows us to access and analyze scientific data in real time. This enables us to make informed decisions and adjustments to our strategies, ensuring that our environmental initiatives are as effective as possible.

By integrating these approaches and technologies, we’ve been able to achieve both carbon and plastic neutrality. This is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and our responsibility towards the environment. It’s not just about offsetting our impact, but actively contributing to a healthier planet.

Finally, can you tell us your top picks from the line for 2024 beauty staples? 

Absolutely! With so many exceptional products in our skincare range, narrowing it down to just a few top picks for 2024 is quite a challenge. Each product in our line is crafted with the utmost care and precision, addressing a wide array of skin concerns. However, for those looking to streamline their beauty routine with the most innovative and effective products, we have some standout selections.

Age Repair Miracle Drops: This lightweight, highly effective facial oil is our clients’ all-time favorite. Enriched with powerful natural ingredients like Phyto-Squalan, Baobab and Kalahari Melon that target the signs of aging, it is perfect for those looking to diminish fine lines and improve skin texture. You can also use it as a highlighter on your cheeks, in combination with your serum, or mixed with your face cream for added protection.

Supreme Lifting Eye Serum: Expertly crafted with the power of fermented phytoplankton, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and green tea, this eye serum targets all major eye concerns: drooping eyelids, fine lines, crow’s feet, puffiness, dark circles, and loss of elasticity. Its fast-absorbing, potent formula diminishes wrinkles and instantly smoothens your skin, revealing a visibly refreshed and revitalized eye area. 

Ultra Hydration Serum: Our all-time bestseller. This highly concentrated, intensive serum is specifically designed for dehydrated and parched skin. Featuring a powerful combination of high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, it dives deep into your skin’s layers, replenishing moisture reserves from within. Perfect for combating dryness, tightness, irritation, and pesky dryness lines, or as a revitalizing moisture boost for sun-kissed skin for a more supple, smooth, and radiant complexion.

Barrier Restoring Rich Cream: Expertly formulated with a blend of ceramides, edelweiss, and calendula, this luxurious rich cream is a boon for stressed skin barriers. It delivers immediate comfort to extremely dry and irritated skin, making it a go-to solution for irritation, dryness, and compromised skin barrier function. Ideal for nurturing and restoring your skin’s natural resilience, this cream is a must-have for anyone seeking a soothing touch and a restored, healthy glow.

Sensitive Minerals Sunscreen: Specially formulated with zinc oxide, this fragrance-free, lightly tinted sunscreen for face and body offers superior broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, all without any white cast. Infused with nature’s best – prickly pear, Indian myrrh, and rose hydrolate – it not only protects but also nourishes and soothes, making it perfect for sensitive and delicate children’s skin. Plus, it is water-resistant for long-lasting protection. 

Golden Glow Body Oil: This transformative body oil is a masterful blend of nature’s finest – bakuchiol, squalane, coenzyme Q10, paracress, and astragalus. Together, they deeply nourish and firm your skin, leaving it irresistibly silky smooth and supple. The unique creamy texture transforms into a luxurious liquid oil on contact with your skin. And for that extra touch of allure, a subtle shimmer woven into the formula adds a mesmerizing glow. 

Solid Hair Wash + Balm: This solid product combines the cleansing power of a shampoo with the deep conditioning benefits of a conditioner. Packed with luxurious natural botanical oils, it leaves hair not only clean, but shiny. Enriched with argan oil for natural cell protection, macadamia oil and almond proteins for lustrous shine and body, and the power of ginkgo extract to promote healthy hair growth. Perfect for all hair types, this solid shampoo is your shortcut to gorgeous, healthy hair every day!