Our History

Esse means ‘to be’ in Latin. Launched in 2002, Esse established itself in the nascent organic skincare market in South Africa. The move into probiotic skincare started in 2009, and since then Esse continues to be at the forefront of microbiome skincare.

2002

After two years of formulation work, Trevor Steyn launches Esse with three refrigerated, preservative-free moisturisers; organic with African actives.

> Read more about Trevor

A display case with a green "esse" logo contains various cylindrical cans. Next to the case are three types of esse cans in different colors labeled "deep," "light," and "rich." The display case has glass doors showing the cans stored inside.
Image of five skincare products from the brand Esse arranged in a row. The products include Light Moisturiser, Deep Moisturiser, Rich Moisturiser, Serum, and Tissue Oil, each in distinct packaging with nature-themed label designs.

2005

Added cleanser, toner and non-refrigerated moisturisers for a more complete skincare offering.

> Discover the Esse Product Range    

2008

Professional product range added after testing at a local beauty school owned by Lynelle Harrison.

> Discover the Esse Professional Product Range

A collection of skincare products with green and white packaging from Esse. The assortment includes a pump bottle of massage cream, a cream mask, various jars of different sizes, and several boxed items. All products feature a sleek design with the Esse logo.
Several laboratory glassware items, including beakers and test tubes, are arranged around skincare products from the brand Esse. Visible products include a Microderm Exfoliator, Anti Cellulite Mask, and Facial Moisturizing Cream. The setting suggests a lab environment.

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.

A woman with closed eyes and hands gently touching her face is depicted at the center. Surrounding her head are six circular insets showing various types of microscopic bacteria and cells, connected to her face with dotted lines, focusing on skincare and microbiology.
A bottle of Esse probiotic serum is placed in front of laboratory equipment, including a clear beaker with blue measurement markings and a petri dish containing a light blue growth culture. The scene is brightly lit with a clean, clinical aesthetic.

2015

Esse launches the first live probiotic skincare product. A serum containing 1 billion live probiotic microbes per millilitre.

Sensitive Range launched.

> Discover the Sensitive Range

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.

A modern storefront with "Esse" written above the entrance. The interior features a wooden reception desk, white decor elements, and large green plants. The shop has glass walls and doors, and the space is well-lit with natural and artificial lighting.
Nine bottles of foundation from the brand "Esse" are arranged in three rows. The bottles feature silver caps and the shades range from light to dark. Each bottle stands on a circular swatch of the corresponding foundation color.

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.

> Read more about Foundation

2021

Professional-only launch of the Clarifying Range using biotechnology to fight the root causes of acne.

> Discover the Clarifying Range

A set of Esse skincare products, including a clarifying cleanser, oil, and serum, in white bottles with silver dispensers arranged in front of an artistic green and blue petri dish. The product names are visible on the bottles.