Nobel laureate Dr Peter Agre recognises Emma Lewisham’s science-led skincare approach

New Zealand skincare brand Emma Lewisham has received recognition from Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr Peter Agre, marking the first time the molecular biologist has publicly recognised a beauty brand.

Dr Agre, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2003 for his discovery of aquaporins, has praised the brand’s approach to science-backed formulation and sustainable innovation.

The recognition follows previous acknowledgment from conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, who endorsed Emma Lewisham in 2021.

Founded in 2019 by Emma Lewisham, the luxury skincare brand has built its proposition around evidence-based formulations, combining natural ingredients with a focus on skin biology. The brand says its products are designed to work across multiple skin pathways rather than focusing on single “hero” ingredients.

Dr Agre’s Nobel Prize-winning research identified aquaporins, proteins that regulate the movement of water through cell membranes. The discovery transformed understanding of cellular hydration and has influenced research across fields including medicine, neuroscience and plant biology.

Commenting on Emma Lewisham’s approach, Dr Agre said: “I recognise Emma Lewisham’s genuine commitment to scientific thinking and dedication to sustainable practices. For me, what’s most appealing about Emma Lewisham is their way of thinking, curiosity, and genuine authenticity in their work.”

He added that the brand’s work is “anchored in science, using it as a force for good”.

Emma Lewisham said: “To be recognised by Dr Peter Agre - a scientist whose groundbreaking work reshaped how we understand the natural world - is incredibly meaningful. He embodies the kind of purpose-driven innovation we aspire to, and his acknowledgement reinforces our mission to lead with both scientific excellence and ethical responsibility.”

The founder launched the brand after struggling to find effective natural skincare that aligned with her own health concerns. Since then, Emma Lewisham has expanded internationally and is stocked by luxury beauty retailers including Space NK.

In 2021, the brand became the first skincare company globally to achieve climate-positive certification and today positions sustainability alongside scientific innovation as a core part of its identity.

The recognition comes as beauty brands continue to place greater emphasis on scientific credentials, evidence-based formulations and sustainability as they seek to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.