brand's story
Oskia words by Nicola McCullough
Often the most innovative products evolve from their creator's individual needs, which is exactly how OSKIA skincare came about. Only naturally derived, skin-kind ingredients and a wealth of expertise are used in the independent brand's award-winning collection. Estila team essentials include the Renaissance Cleansing Gel and Mask, which is equally effective and a joy to use. Founder, Georgie Cleeves, comes from a family of entrepreneurs going back generations. I caught up with her to talk skincare and a refreshingly down to earth business ethos. WHAT IS THE STORY AND INSPIRATION BEHIND OSKIA? You could describe OSKIA as a bit of an accident. Back in my teens I suffered from severe cartilage damage in my knee (from over skiing) and after my fourth knee operation my father persuaded me to try his horse supplement that was designed to improve the joints of race horses - MSM, the most bio-available form of sulphur and known for its collagen boosting properties. He introduced MSM to the market over 30 years ago. Needless to say my knees completely repaired, so much so that I climb, compete in triathlons and was a ski instructor for a year, with no pain at all. What I didn’t expect was the dramatic difference in my skin. My acne and eczema both disappeared (a rare combination) and my hair and nails became strong and long. The seed of an idea was sown. Life and a career got in the way, but in 2009, after spending 4 years investigating the effects of nutrients on the skin and skincare therapy, OSKIA was born. 21
