We are beyond thrilled to announce the partnership and launch of Cosmetics 27 just in time for Fall, here in the city as well as in the Hamptons. In celebrating this launch, we sat down with the skincare guru and founder of Cosmetics 27, Michèle, to learn more about the origins of this line as well as her own skin secrets we all want to takeaway. Be sure to book your facial with Sommetbeauty this month for an exclusive protocol formed by the founder alongside our team.
1) What was the catalyst that drove you from pharmacist to developer / founder?
The very initial idea was from my days in the labs and formulating. I've always had a passion for galenic and making all kinds of preparations (pharmaceutical). I worked for over 25 years in product development and kept the same passion. When I was
searching for a product to treat a scar I dicovered the incredible properties of Centella
Asiatica , an ancestral ayurvedic healing plant that has proven efficacy on scarring and inflammation.
2) What was your "aha moment" with the discovery of Centella Asiatica? What is Centella Asiatica?
I had 2 aha moments. The first one was when I saw the result of using a pharmaceutical prepared cream on my own scar-literally invisible where I applied. I did test different products on different parts of my scar. The second moment was when I received the clinical results on the 1st Baume 27 formula and on the Cica MA2 Complex- both were tested on reconstructed skin, and the lab called me to ask whose formula that was!! The results were highly significant and the lab had never seen such results!
3) What is your primary skin concern?
My main concern has always been dry, itchy and irritable skin (particularly in the winter). With age, I'm focused on the loss of brightness and tone.
4) What are your AM and PM routines?
I’ve always had a simple routine. I never spent much time layering or changing, adding ,
searching for new or better products. I always studied formulas, tested them and kept them in my routine if they remained suitable. I am a loyal skincare customer as well as for fragrance!
In the AM, I splash cold water on my face, get in the shower, lightly cleanse my skin with half a nut of Cleanser 27 (not much oil or build up but the skin detoxifies during the night). I dry my face lightly then apply the new Toner 27 – soon to be out. I let my skin breathe, have breakfast, then apply my favorite blend of Baume 27 + 3-4 drops of Huile 27 onto my face, neck and decolleté. I wear limited make up - a tinted primer, some powder ( Bobbi Brown) and a mascara (G. Westman) and go!
In the evening, whatever the hour, I cleanse my face with Cleanser 27, massage a few
minutes dry - apply water then use my konjac sponge to exfoliate lightly and rinse. I use the Peel 27 triple exfoliating powder once a week in the winter and twice a week in summer. I dry my face gently and apply the Toner 27. At night, I use the Baume 27 serum blended with 2 drops of oil for comfort – my skin dehydrates fast at night - and in the winter I add half a nut of Baume 27 in the same blend.
5) What are you hoping to do next with C27? Any new SKUs in development?
My project has been and remains on skin longevity. I keep researching and studying the
aging process, mechanisms and treatments in medicine as an inspiration for skincare. So
many projects ahead! Longevity science is only at the beginning. In 2026 we have a few new projects- longevity skin supplement, scalp treatment and a night care confidential project. I am also working on UV protection, not sun care but daily skin UV protection.
6) What skin mistakes do most people make with their routines and care?
The most common problems are overuse of products (too many of too many different or
same type), high concentrations and cumulative concentrations of the same ingredients / redundancy. One that I am strongly against is over exfoliation and peels. Be gentle to your skin. It regenerates but can also go through a burn out!!
7) What is your favorite way to unwind and relax?
My weekend in the country. Same routine, no make up, long walks, golf, pausing and
laughing!