Beekman 1802 has a unique origin story that sets it apart in the world of farm-to-formula beauty. Co-founder Dr. Brent Ridge reminisces about the moment a local farmer asked if his goats could graze on their land, sparking the idea that would eventually become their company. “We say that was the original act of kindness that started our company,” he reflects.
Before the brand’s products hit the shelves, Dr. Brent and his husband and co-founder, Josh Kilmer Purcell, were city dwellers looking for a change of pace. When the goats on their property caught their attention during a difficult time, they turned to Google for inspiration. “We Googled, what can we make with goat milk. And that is how we started,” Dr. Brent explains.
Their journey began with a goat milk cleansing bar, hand-wrapped by neighbors. “Our original tagline for the company was Soap for Sensitive People,” Dr. Brent recalls. He emphasizes the importance of proper cleansing as the foundation of skin health, highlighting how their original bar maintained the skin’s pH and barrier integrity. Over 60 million units later, it remains a beloved staple in the beauty industry.
Why Goat Milk Is Great for Reactive Skin
The reputation of Beekman 1802’s products grew as people with various skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, shared stories of positive results. Dr. Brent delved into the science behind goat milk’s effectiveness, noting its similarity to the pH of human skin, allowing for gentle yet thorough cleansing. The brand also explored how goat milk’s oligosaccharides act as natural prebiotics, supporting the skin’s microbiome and overall health.
What started as a simple cleanser evolved into a deeper scientific exploration, revealing goat milk’s biological compatibility with the skin’s balance and resilience.
The Scientific Twist: Exosomes Hidden in Plain Sight
A pivotal moment for the brand came when Dr. Brent stumbled upon research on exosomes, tiny vesicles with essential roles in cell communication. Scientists were investigating exosomes as potential delivery systems for chemotherapy when they discovered that goat milk is rich in exosomes. “We found that there were 116 billion exosomes in every milliliter of the goat milk,” Dr. Brent shares.
This discovery led to a shift in the brand’s approach, focusing on utilizing exosomes as a delivery mechanism for active ingredients. This marked a transition towards what Dr. Brent refers to as better aging, moving away from traditional anti-aging strategies.
A Modern Approach to Better Aging
The brand’s Milk RX formulas emerged from this research, incorporating a powerful polypeptide derived from the renna seed. Dr. Brent highlights the polypeptide’s superior collagen-stimulating properties compared to retinol, without the associated skin sensitization. Paired with the exosomal delivery system, the formula addresses dryness, sensitivity, and menopausal changes effectively.
Where the Routine Fits Today
Dr. Brent’s personal skincare routine is straightforward: using the Bloom Cream Moisturizer ($56) in the morning, followed by the Milk RX Advanced Better Aging Wrinkle Serum ($72) and the Milk RX Advanced Better Aging Cream ($68) at night. The Milk RX Advanced Better Aging Mask ($16) is reserved for reactive skin moments.
The evolution of Beekman 1802 showcases the harmonious blend of nature and scientific research. While goat milk may evoke nostalgia, the innovative science behind it is driving intriguing advancements in modern skincare. Exosomes sourced from a natural ingredient are shaping the future of skincare, with Beekman 1802 at the forefront of this innovative approach.