The Huygens Story
Published :
11/20/2024 17:05:03
Categories :
,
, Ingredients
, New Arrivals
, Press
, The workshops
When and how was the Huygens brand born?
The Huygens brand was created in 2013 with the opening of our natural beauty apothecary in the Marais district of Paris. After spending several years working with the most prestigious perfume and beauty houses in Paris and Milan, I realized that while these brands were exceptional, they didn’t integrate natural elements into their products. For me, nature has always been essential, as I grew up in a natural environment. I believe that nature is crucial for our well-being. It was clear to me that I needed to create a brand of excellence that combines effectiveness and natural ingredients.
What is the philosophy behind Huygens?
The philosophy of Huygens is based on a simple conviction: nature is good for us. We are committed to a quest for effectiveness, which means we invest heavily in research and testing. Every product is designed to transform the skin and deliver visible results. We believe in high-performance formulas created with a maximum of natural active ingredients to ensure the best possible results.
Why did you choose the name Huygens?
Huygens is a 100% French brand: all our processes, from production to creation, take place here. The name is a nod to my Dutch origins. It honors an influential Dutch family from the 17th century who were sent to Paris by the Dutch crown. This family was passionate about the science of plants and even created a botanical garden in the shape of the human body. Their contributions to botany in both France and the Netherlands are inspiring. I’m very proud of this name.
What are the standout products in Huygens' history?
Among our iconic products, the Face Scrub stands out. It was the first skincare product to achieve success thanks to its unique formula that nourishes the skin while gently removing impurities. Next is the Collagen Lift & Firmness Cream, one of our very first products, which has evolved to become even more effective on deep wrinkles. Lastly, our Lash & Brow Care Booster, launched in 2022, is a true success in terms of efficacy: up to +19% volume in 30 days.
How does Huygens stand out from other organic and natural cosmetic brands?
We stand out for our obsession with effectiveness. We position ourselves as a premium brand. We hold the Cosmos certification for natural and organic products, which reflects our rigorous approach to formulation. This certification covers not only ingredients but also packaging and manufacturing processes. Huygens embodies a demanding beauty philosophy that respects both effectiveness and quality.
How are the ingredients in your products selected?
We use two types of ingredients: on one hand, active ingredients with proven effects, such as anti-wrinkle agents or growth boosters, chosen for their demonstrated effectiveness. On the other hand, we incorporate ingredients from organic farming, such as argan oil or aloe vera, selected for their quality and natural benefits.
What are the next steps or developments planned for Huygens?
We have very promising distribution projects with several partners: perfume chains, high-end pharmacies, and beauty salons. We are about to enter the English and Indonesian markets. On the product side, leveraging 12 years of expertise in facial care, we will expand the anti-aging range, notably with a new Lift & Firm Serum featuring resveratrol and a rich version of our Hyaluronic Cream. We are also preparing a range with plant-based retinol.
How does Huygens commit to environmental protection and animal welfare?
Since its creation in 2012, Huygens has never tested its products on animals, even when required by countries like China, where we refused to be distributed. All our products are vegan, having even removed beeswax from our formulations. We are also committed to the environment: our production is French and uses short supply chains. We prioritize recyclable glass packaging and choose recycled and recyclable materials for plastic. Finally, we use FSC-certified paper for our packaging and maintain a blacklist of ingredients banned due to their environmental impact.
Which product or project are you most proud of?
It’s hard to choose. On a human level, I’m particularly proud of the team we’ve built, a close-knit group. Every day, I enjoy coming to work. I’m also very proud of our beautiful product catalog and the loyalty of our customers. Finally, I must mention our stores in Paris, Tokyo, Singapore, Taipei, and Kuala Lumpur! All these points of sale around the world are a great achievement!
Who is the brand aimed at?
Huygens targets active women aged 35 and over who are looking for tangible results. They are demanding and sensitive to the natural composition of products. They want products that are both aesthetic and high-quality, and we strive to meet all their expectations. We also have a purifying range for young skin, with salicylic acid, although this is not our core target audience.
A personal anecdote?
As a child, I grew up near a nature reserve, the North Holland Dune Reserve. I loved creating potions with the plants I found there, mixing them with my parents’ shampoos or creams. It was my way of taking care of myself and my loved ones. This passion for nature and natural ingredients is still with me today!