Meet Moussse, The Swiss Skincare Brand Created for City Dwellers
We sat down with the brand’s founders to discuss how pollutants could be the key reason our skin isn’t feeling as healthy as it should.
Life in big cities can take a toll, leaving our skin, hair and even our bodies feeling far from their best. Hélène Guttmann Chammas experienced this herself when moving from smog-free Switzerland to metropolises like Paris, New York and London. After trying every treatment under the sun and chatting with her husband, a former beauty buyer and CEO of Dr. Barbara Sturm, she learned that she wasn’t the only city girl facing this problem. After extensive research, the couple launched Moussse, the skincare solution built for those who live in crowded, urban environments that wreak havoc on their skin.
Below, we speak with Chammas to learn more about why she started Moussse, her love for skincare and what she and her partner see for the brand’s future.
View this post on Instagram
On the brand’s creation
I never had skin issues growing up in Switzerland, where the air is fresh and the water is pure. However, in my twenties, I moved to big cities which came with unexpected challenges. My skin became inflamed and red, with swollen, bumpy cheeks and persistent dryness. Despite consulting multiple dermatologists, trying laser treatments and using pharmaceutical creams, nothing seemed to work. The state of my skin had a significant impact on my mood and social life, leaving me feeling frustrated and self-conscious.
Through conversations with my community, I discovered that many others were facing similar struggles. After some research with my husband Daniel — whose expertise in skincare included roles as a beauty buyer at Net-A-Porter and CEO of Dr. Barbara Sturm — we consulted Swiss skincare professionals and learned that most of my issues stemmed from the urban lifestyle I had adopted.
On the brand’s mission
Moussse is a Swiss biotech skincare brand designed specifically for people living in urban environments. Skin exposed to urban stressors requires extra barrier care. A healthy skin barrier is essential to shield against dehydration, inflammation, sensitivity and premature aging while locking in vital moisture. That’s why we collaborated with Switzerland’s leading biochemists and dermatologists to develop the most advanced barrier-care formulas.
On where they see the brand in five years
In 5 years, we see our brand as a trusted name on the bathroom shelves of urban dwellers worldwide — an essential part of their daily routine. Our goal with Moussse is to provide innovative, biotech-powered skincare solutions that empower people to protect and nurture their skin against the unique challenges of urban living.
On their favorite products
I’m absolutely in love with our “Moisture Rush” Face Cream — it has truly transformed my skin. It soothes redness and inflammation while keeping my skin hydrated all day long. I use it both morning and evening for intense, long-lasting hydration.
In the morning, after cleansing, I apply “Moisture Rush” and follow up with my Skinny Confidential “Hot Mess” Ice Roller. This enhances absorption and boosts the cream’s moisture-locking benefits. I keep the roller in the fridge for an extra-cooling effect and to maximize depuffing. After my nightly skincare routine, I love using my Currentbody LED Light Therapy Mask. It makes my skin smoother, more even-toned and reduces inflammation. It also helps me relax and unwind after the day.
On why they love skincare
I grew up in a French household where the approach to skincare was always minimalist. It was about quality over quantity and staying as natural as possible. I’ve always loved this philosophy: where you don’t need a lot to look and feel good; you just need a few great products.
As someone super interested in fitness and nutrition, I believe healthy skin comes from a holistic approach. It’s not just about what we apply to our skin but also about nourishing our body with the right foods, staying active and hydrated and prioritizing good-quality sleep.
On brands that have inspired them
I’ve been inspired by ON Running, a Swiss company that has successfully disrupted the athleisure category. The brand embodies technology, design, sustainability and Swiss engineering — all values that Moussse proudly shares.
I admire their strategic approach to collaborations in the luxury fashion space, such as their partnership with LOEWE. They consistently reinvent themselves and connect with diverse audiences, as seen in their choice of Zendaya as a brand ambassador. Her involvement adds a fresh and creative perspective to their campaigns and product designs, reflecting a shared commitment to community, movement and sustainability. This approach makes the brand accessible not only to athletes but also to those who value wellness, style and inclusivity.
On their dream collaboration
We’re obsessed with food and we love how Cedric Grolet brings so much technical expertise to his desserts, he even did our wedding cake. He’s been a true disruptor in the culinary world, seamlessly blending visual beauty, technical mastery and bold flavors. Each dessert showcases exceptional precision, with meticulous attention to detail. For us, he embodies the philosophy of simplicity, allowing the essence of each core ingredient to shine — something we also strive for with Moussse.
We’ve already done an amazing collaboration with HRH, who created stunning Swarovski crystal headbands for us. We’re also working with the brand KATYA, which is designing an awesome accessory with us in 2025. Both brands perfectly represent our DNA: expertise, design and an urban sensibility.
For more founder interviews, check out our discussion with the founders of “slow beauty” brand, Kindred Black.
