La Haute Apothicairerie Scientifique is about refusing to choose between what heals and what moves us.
Paris, October 2018. The Hôtel Drouot is hosting an auction. A bottle elegantly adorned with floral motifs catches my eye. Two names are engraved on the glass: JUANINA and COTTAN. Driven by curiosity, I began researching the history behind this bottle. This is how I discovered the existence of the Société Hygiénique, a once-thriving beauty salon founded in 1840 by a doctor: Dr Jean-François Arsène Cottan.
To further my investigation, I contacted an expert in corporate genealogy. Together, we managed to trace the history of this company, which was emblematic of its era yet had since fallen into obscurity. The innovation patents were rediscovered and then deciphered in the light of modern science.
What they reveal goes far beyond a formula. It is the vision of a pioneer who, at a time when the cosmetics industry, in the euphoria of its boom, obeyed no rules, placed skin health at the heart of his craft. I see in this a precious—and strangely contemporary—intellectual heritage that was just waiting to be reawakened.
The man behind the bottle
Ganaël Bascoul has always combined two perspectives that rarely meet: that of science and that of art. With a PhD in applied mathematics, he conducted research into innovation and sustainable development, first at ESCP and then within major corporations; at the same time, he founded and ran a modern art gallery in the Galerie Vivienne. It was at the very intersection of these two demands — rigour and beauty — that he recognised, where others would have seen only an antique bottle, what was to become Cottan.
In keeping with Dr Cottan’s approach, we have surrounded ourselves with industry experts to develop our formulations in line with the latest advancements in beauty.
“Innovation through heritage defines a framework where the past becomes a true source code for designing contemporary solutions, rather than a mere nostalgic repertoire.”
Former Head of Research at a major luxury brand. President of the Cosmétothèque — the first conservatory of the sciences and techniques underpinning the creation of beauty products.
“Natural beauty and formulation heritage constitute a field of innovation that remains largely unexplored, yet whose contemporary relevance is undeniable.”
President of Laboratoire Savoir des Peuples, responsible for all Cottan formulations. His unique expertise in natural cosmetics lies at the heart of what makes these formulas extraordinary.
“We have revived exceptional formulas and reimagined them to make each product a unique, authentic experience that respects the skin’s physiology.”
PhD in Pharmacy, Director of Product Development, following several years with leading French luxury beauty houses. His expertise ensures that every formula meets the expectations of our discerning clients and partners.
The past is a source code, which our master formulators
use to invent the beauty of tomorrow. Today, we remain deeply convinced that the inspiration and expertise of that golden age, combined with modern science, can illuminate the future of beauty.
From active ingredients to functional ingredients, each must be chosen with care to serve the purpose of the formula, and to elegantly combine efficacy, skin tolerance and sensory pleasure.
The effectiveness of a formula is not measured by the quantity of ingredients, but by the precision of the balance — a secret known only to master formulators.
A well-crafted formula stands out first and foremost for the experience it delivers. Its texture, its fragrance, and how it blends with the skin are all hallmarks of its quality.
Since its rebirth, Cottan has successfully won back a following of connoisseurs who appreciate fine formulations and are drawn to the approach inherited from the 19th century. A new beginning, marked by prestigious awards and international media coverage.
The brand’s revival, in partnership with the Cosmétothèque, to reveal the potential of Jean-François Arsène Cottan’s work. CosmétiqueMag Award for the Savon Dulcifié.
First brand to obtain Clean Beauty certification from the independent laboratory Biorius. Launch at Printemps in Paris and the French Pharmacy in London.
Launch of a groundbreaking R&D programme based on innovation through tradition. Relaunch of Kalodermale Hand Cream. Participation in the Cosmoprof Asia trade show in Hong Kong. Launch of the brand in Korea, Macau, Vietnam and Japan, with high-profile coverage on major local television programmes.
Participation in Tranoï in Tokyo and BeautyWorld in Dubai. Launch of the Make-up Remover Powder, Hydrating Floral Water and Vitamin C Healthy Glow Serum.
European Natural Beauty Awards for the Micellar Beauty Vinegar. Entry into Printemps in New York, more than a century after the brand’s disappearance across the Atlantic.
Participation in Cosmoprof in Bologna. Launch of the brand in Thailand with Central Group. Research programme based on the secrets of the first French-language Pharmacopoeia (1837). Launch of the Cica-Cold Face Cream and the Silky Exfoliating Balm.
“The Cottan brand, founded in 1840, is now reissuing its famous beauty vinegar with a micellar formula containing gentle surfactants, to optimise the removal of impurities. Applied to a cotton pad in the morning to awaken the skin, and in the evening as the final step in make-up removal, the vinegar effortlessly restores radiance to the face.”
“Elegant gifts that are sure to be a hit.”
Alongside Hermès varnish, Maison Christian Dior Paris candles and Opéra d'Astier de Vilatte incense.
“The Société Hygiénique du Docteur Cottan, founded in 1840 by the Parisian pharmacist Jean-François Arsène, was one of the first companies to formulate healthy, natural products. It is this art of formulation—which we would describe today as ‘clean’—that the young entrepreneur is now showcasing in a first Arsène collection featuring the 19th-century bestsellers for sensitive skin.”
“This House has been revived after more than a hundred years of dormancy, to reveal one of the most beautiful secrets of French beauty, through a routine of unique products with refined formulas.”
The House has rekindled its century-old relationships with France’s most renowned retailers, such as Le Printemps. From the heart of Paris, Cottan is now present in more than a dozen countries, thanks to its renowned partners.
