Chemical romance: this is lab made beauty at its finest
The worlds of science and beauty enjoy a laboratory liaison thanks to these scientists turned beauty experts

Beauty and science have long been intertwined. Most beauty products are created in laboratories by researchers well-versed in the combination of chemicals used in skincare or the molecules that make up perfumes. However, a select group of scientists are currently using their unique insight to transform the beauty industry.
Professor Augustinus Bader is one such innovator. A stem cell and biomedical scientist at Leipzig University, Bader stumbled into the world of skincare after developing a revolutionary topical cream that could heal burn injuries to an extent previously only possible through skin grafts. The stem cell science behind that cream forms the basis of his eponymous skincare line, and will soon to be followed by a haircare range.
The Cream by Augustinus Bader
Meanwhile, Wendy Ouriel was studying extracellular matrix biology before pivoting to skincare. Her investigations into the reproductive biology of black widow spiders piqued her interest in the science of anti-ageing. Her findings were so contrary to what most other skincare brands were doing that she decided to start a line of her own. The result is Oumere, a tight edit of serums designed to eradicate signs of ageing.
Serum Bioluminelle by Oumere
To create Hermès’ first men’s perfume in 15 years, H24, the brand’s in-house perfumer Christine Nagel used her degree in organic chemistry, as well as her knowledge of the science behind scent, to develop the fragrance’s signature molecule. This unique, synthetic ‘molecule of the future’, tagged sclarene, was inspired by the aroma of hot irons on fabric that Nagel encountered in Hermès workshops.
It gives H24 a singular, metallic edge that sets it apart from other male fragrances. With a logo and packaging by Paris-based design studio Yorgo & Co, it also looks as good as it smells.
H24 eau de toilette by Hermès
INFORMATION
hermes.com
oumere.com
augustinusbader.com
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox.
Mary Cleary is a writer based in London and New York. Previously beauty & grooming editor at Wallpaper*, she is now a contributing editor, alongside writing for various publications on all aspects of culture.
-
Michael Rider’s joyful Celine debut: ‘I’ve always loved the idea of clothing that lives on’
Presented today in Celine’s Paris HQ, the designer’s astute debut balanced the house’s recent legacy with a fresh, contemporary vision which nodded to his American roots
-
The Richard Mille x Brough Superior RMB01 is a motorcycle with an exceptional aesthetic pedigree
The RMB01 is what happens when horological obsession meets two-wheeled excellence: a Franco-Swiss racing motorcycle that brings out the best in both brands
-
Six modern bathroom ideas for spaces big and small
Here are our best bathroom designs for 2026: colours, curves and a calming ambience are making a splash this season, with tactile and textured surfaces to elevate your shower room