Mustela is a French, family-owned dermo-cosmetics brand that has specialized in natural skincare for babies, children, and mothers since 1950. A flagship brand of Laboratoires Expanscience, Mustela is recognized as a pioneer in neonatal dermatology and a leader in plant extraction. The company is B Corp certified, reflecting a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Corporate Identity and Origins
Founding and Ownership:
Mustela was founded in 1950 by entrepreneur Paul Berthomé and pharmacist Claude Guillon, who created the first cleansing milk specifically for baby skin. It remains an independent family business, currently led by the founder’s son, Jean-Paul Berthomé.
Headquarters and Manufacturing:
The company is headquartered in Paris (La Défense). Approximately 95% of its products are manufactured at its own production site in Epernon, France, which has been operational since 1957.
Global Presence:
Mustela products are distributed in more than 100 countries and used in over 2,000 maternity wards worldwide.
Product Lines and Expertise
Mustela offers specialized ranges based on four primary skin types identified through its scientific research:
normal, dry, very sensitive, and atopic-prone skin.
Bébé-Enfant:
Includes ultra-gentle, hypoallergenic cleansing gels, moisturizing creams, and shampoos suitable for use from birth.
Maternity:
Specialized care for pregnant women and new mothers, such as stretch mark creams and nourishing oils to preserve skin elasticity.
Family:
Multifunctional products including moisturizing lotions and shampoos designed for the whole family.
Specialty Care:
Targeted treatments for common conditions like cradle cap, diaper rash, and skin irritations (e.g., the Cicastela range).
Scientific and Ethical Standards
Natural Ingredients:
Products contain an average of 95% natural-origin ingredients. A signature ingredient is Avocado Perseose®, a plant-derived molecule used to protect the skin barrier.
Safety Testing:
Every product undergoes more than 450 tests and is validated by an independent toxicologist before release.
Ingredient Exclusion:
The brand strictly avoids parabens, phthalates, and phenoxyethanol.
Sustainability:
Mustela uses 100% green electricity for its production site and has committed to carbon neutrality by 2030. It is also a member of the Union for Ethical Biotrade (UEBT).
The Mustela Foundation
Established in 1982, the Mustela Foundation supports research and projects related to child development and parenting. It provides scientific research grants and awards, such as the Research-Action prize and the Vulnerabilities Research Grant, to improve the quality of life for families globally.