The province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa — along with the international skincare community — is mourning the passing of Trevor Steyn, the innovative founder of Esse Skincare and one of the most influential voices in sustainable, science-led beauty. His sudden death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, consumers, and industry leaders across the world who admired his brilliance, compassion, and lifelong dedication to environmental integrity in skincare.
Trevor Steyn was more than an entrepreneur; he was a trailblazing chemist and research visionary whose groundbreaking work helped transform the global perspective on skin health. A graduate and Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Trevor developed a deep passion early in his career for the human microbiome — ultimately becoming one of the first in the world to successfully merge this research into practical, everyday skincare.
In 2002, Trevor founded Esse Skincare with a mission that was radically ahead of its time: to create organic, microbiome-focused skincare free of harmful preservatives and built around living probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics. His belief that science and nature could co-exist in balance became the foundation of Esse — and later positioned the brand as a global leader in microbiome beauty long before the concept became mainstream.
Under Trevor’s leadership, Esse grew from a local South African brand into a world-renowned force redefining ethical skincare. His work championed sustainability, clean formulation, respect for natural ecosystems, and skin microbiome support — all while pushing the boundaries of what was scientifically possible in skin health. His research contributed to an industry-wide shift toward probiotic-based beauty, inspiring countless chemists and formulators worldwide.
Beyond his scientific achievement, Trevor was admired for his humility, quiet strength, and genuine kindness. He led with purpose and heart — encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and innovation within the teams he worked with.
His passing represents not only a devastating loss for his family and the South African scientific community, but also for the global beauty industry that benefited immensely from his vision. The legacy he leaves behind is monumental — living on through the products he created, the science he advanced, and the sustainable values he fiercely protected.
Trevor Steyn’s impact will continue to guide Esse Skincare and all who share his belief that skin health begins at the microbial level — and that true beauty is built with respect for the planet.
May his memory continue to inspire future innovators, chemists, entrepreneurs, and environmental leaders for generations to come.