wrinkle-busting ingredient

discover the wrinkle-busting ingredient that’s natural

From the initial conception of STELLA skincare, the brand has been built on a promise that conscious skincare doesn’t need to come with a compromise – and that extends to our ingredients too. A key active within the collection’s formulas is Organic Rock Samphire – a natural, wonder ingredient which is revered for its incredible retinol-like properties. STELLA skincare spoke with Julian Contremoulin, our harvester of this special ingredient, to understand more about its potent ability.

STELLA skincare: What makes this type of samphire so unique?

Julian Contremoulin: Rock Samphire is a unique plant and very well adapted to marine environments. It grows near the sea, between the rocks (hence its name), and because it gets the essential elements necessary to grow from sea spray, it needs almost no land to thrive

STELLA skincare: Can you tell us why is the rock samphire so special within the beauty world?

Julian Contremoulin: Rock samphire extracts have unique cosmetics properties and are highly effective on wrinkles. Also, those extracts are made whilst respecting mother earth, using very little water or energy

STELLA skincare: What makes your harvesting technique so unique and better for the environment?

Julian Contremoulin: Our harvesting method is manual and very respectful of nature. We always cut the plant but leave the roots so it can grow again. The plant is manually harvested and put in a burlap cloth bag, then dried naturally using the least energy possible. When we harvest rock samphire, we also sow seeds.

STELLA skincare: What else can you do with rock samphire? How do you like to use it?

Julian Contremoulin: Rock samphire can also be eaten – I add it to salads and it instantly adds incredible flavour. It is very rich in vitamins and eigenelements, so it’s great for your health.

STELLA skincare: What have you learned by working closely with nature?

Julian Contremoulin: I've learned that we can borrow its resources but that we need to respect nature. Today we know how to adapt for an efficient production, ensuring constant regeneration of nature year to year.

STELLA skincare: What changes would you like to see in your industry? In relation to agricultural harvesting?

Julian Contremoulin: Today rock samphire is harvested manually in the most natural way possible but it could also be harvested in a field, near the sea while ensuring quality, durability and reproducibility.

Discover the STELLA Skincare Collection now, including Alter-Care Serum, Our essential concentrate works in synergy with your skin to support its key functions. It visibly renews skin and reinforces its barrier function. Alter-Care Serum contains active ingredients including organic rock samphire. Rich in fatty acids, it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.