Our Origin Story

I used to get mani/pedis every 1-2 weeks.  First, I stopped because of social distancing precautions during the pandemic.  Then, I wanted to avoid unnecessary chemicals while pregnant.  And most recently, it was the fact that I didn't want to spend a few precious hours away from my father when I realized he only had a priceless few hundred of them left to spend with us.  Although I would usually find ways to multi-task, I didn't want to risk unleashing fumes by painting my nails at my dad's house when I saw how his chemotherapy made him sensitive to even the pleasant scent of his favorite homemade cookies in the oven.  As a physician, I have seen how a person's senses and sensitivities can change because of a medical condition or treatment. 

Manicures and baking are among the many simple pleasures that can change for cancer patients, or anyone taking care of someone going through a serious illness.  I've spent the better part of the last two decades as a practicing oncologist on the east and west coasts, and I have seen what a difference even a small bit of normalcy can make for someone going through a treatment or during recovery.  I've always appreciated how makeup helps me de-stress in times of distress: covering up what I feel self-conscious about or amplifying what I feel good about.  It's a simple pleasure that should remain both simple and a pleasure, for any person at any time--especially for someone going through a hard time.  My patients inspired me to create makeup that is luxurious, gentle, and comforting--for them, and anyone with delicate skin.  So I set out to create clean beauty products that were mindful of people's sensitivities, would meet the high standards I set for myself, and that I would allow the people I care most about to use.