The Science of Beauty

Dr. Barbara Sturm has built a global brand by fusing her knowledge of science and medicine into cutting-edge skincare

- OLIVIA MORRIS

Can you talk us through your career?

I began my medical practice in anti-inflammatory orthopaedics, and I later translated some of the scientific anti-inflammatory advances I helped pioneer in joints into skin and aesthetics. Inflammation is really the bane of the body, and at the root of much dysfunction and disease. As a doctor and scientist, I pursue advances in ingredient science and cutting-edge techniques and treatments. I invented a blood plasma-based injectable and facial in 2002, which the public later called the “vampire facial,” and then I created a bespoke, plasma-infused moisturizing (MC1) cream for my patients soon after. When patients asked me to recommend an entire skincare regimen, and I couldn’t recommend any existing options, I set out to create my own science-driven, high-performance skincare regimen and in 2014 I launched Molecular Cosmetics skincare – a line formulated for those who yearn for an uncomplicated yet highly effective skincare regime that provides hydration, nutrition and regeneration glow.

How did you find your way into the beauty space?

Cartilage and skin cells are of the same tissue family, so after seeing the effects the body’s own healing factors had on helping heal the cartilage tissue of my patients in orthopaedics, I had the idea of mixing the proteins into an injectable, healing cocktail for the skin.

What inspired you to start your own brand?

My patients. When my patients asked me to recommend a post-medical treatment skincare regime, I surveyed the market and found an array of aggressive ingredients and confusing marketing. So, I originally set out to create a patients-only skincare regime built around anti-inflammatory ingredient science.