Our Story

The Science Of Skin Since 1927

For almost 100 years, Erno Laszlo has been synonymous with science-backed, ritual-focused skincare, pioneering bespoke solutions rooted in research and proven ingredients, while also addressing the essential connection between skin health and mental well-being.

The legacy of Erno Laszlo began with the groundbreaking discoveries of our founder and his personalized approach to skincare. After receiving his diploma from the Royal Hungarian Elizabeth University of Medical Science, Dr. Laszlo pioneered an innovative skincare philosophy: “observe and listen.” He asked patients about their unique routines and behaviors, then worked to create research-based, efficacious formulations designed for them.

In 1927, the doctor opened the Erno Laszlo Institute for Scientific Cosmetology in Budapest, complete with a lab for developing custom treatments. Dr. Laszlo’s advanced formulas and mindful rituals became essential, lifelong practices for both European royalty and Hollywood icons. A man of innovation, he was the first to introduce the idea of a skincare ritual, double cleansing, pH-balancing skincare, no-makeup makeup, personalized solutions, and more.

Now as then, the Individual is at the center of our practices as our formulas work to address the needs of both skin and lifestyle. After nearly a century of exceptional advancements in the science of skin, we at Erno Laszlo continue to celebrate results-driven formulas, clinical efficacy, and the confidence that comes with skin wellness.

Empowering Women,

One Face at a Time

In 1920, Dr. Laszlo treated the celebrated Hungarian actress Frida Gombaszogi after she was shot in the face by a rejected suitor. Word spread about the doctor's ability to treat skin and restore women’s confidence, and soon his skincare was in high demand for women around the world.

THE LASZLO LEGACY

A Century of Confidence

The ethos of Erno Laszlo has always been to empower women to feel confident in their own skin, and we’ve maintained our mission through decades of ever-evolving beauty.

1920s

Dr. Laszlo was one of the first to give women bespoke beauty rituals when he opened his first institute in 1927.

1930's

Cleansing with cold cream was standard in the 1930s, but Dr. Laszlo emphasized the importance of using two steps: cleansing oil to loosen and remove the grime from the day and a cleansing bar to stimulate and rejuvenate the face. This became the popular double cleanse.

In the height of love for the silver screen, the world became obsessed with the beauty secrets of the rich and famous. Dr. Laszlo treated the brightest stars. Marilyn Monroe swore by the Phormula 3-8 cream the doctor created especially to fade a scar on her stomach.

1940's

1950's

Dr. Laszlo partnered with the high-end department store Saks to expand the Erno Laszlo brand and open up services to more clients. Purchasing the products required a skin consultation with a certified Erno Laszlo beautician.

1960's

Vogue. WWD. Harper's Bazaar. The 1960s were the heyday for fashion publications and everyone was talking about Erno Laszlo. Even Suzy Parker, the world's first “supermodel," became a devotee.

1970's

Dr. Laszlo passed away in 1973, leaving a legacy of innovative products and personalized rituals in Hollywood and beyond. The classic Sea Mud Deep Cleansing Bar made a charming appearance in Woody Allen's iconic film Annie Hall. When Allen asks, flustered, "What is this? You have black soap?" Diane Keaton simply replies, "It's for my complexion."

As product innovation continued, the Erno Laszlo brand was more in demand than ever before. To preserve the high level of personalized service and customization, products were sold on a membership basis, with consultation only. Membership was capped at 25,000 and every person in the club received a chic, black membership card.

1980's

1990's

2000's

The 2000s emphasized luxury in the beauty world. The Erno Laszlo brand reimagined the high-end customization service from the days of Dr. Laszlo’s institute and opened an exclusive members-only institute in Soho on West Broadway.

NOW

Erno Laszlo continues Dr. Laszlo’s legacy with innovative formulas and personalized rituals to celebrate beautiful individuals and inspire confidence. Now everyone can access the products and find the skincare ritual that suits them best.

SHINE BRIGHT

Skincare for the Stars

Dr. Laszlo treated some of the most famous faces of the last century with his signature products and personalized care. No matter how recognizable the face, though, anyone who wanted Dr. Laszlo’s coveted products had to make a consultation appointment.

Today, Erno Laszlo continues to be the skincare brand of choice for top celebrities around the world.

Marilyn Monroe
Audrey Hepburn
Jackie Onassis
Greta Garbo

"Erno Laszlo not only heals my skin, but he soothes my soul"

MARILYN MONROE

Dr. Laszlo specifically created Phormula 3-8 for Marilyn Monroe to heal a scar on her stomach and kept her well stocked with Active Phelityl Cream, an all purpose moisturizer, for her signature on-screen glow.

Marilyn's Ritual

Discover the Modern Day formulation inspired by Marilyn Monroe.

"I owe 50% of my beauty to my mother, and the other 50% to Erno Laszlo."

AUDREY HEPBURN

Screen icon Audrey Hepburn was a huge fan of Dr. Laszlo. After years of heavy film makeup, she came to understand that if your skin isn't good it's a signal that something is wrong.

"I am a woman above everything else."

JACKIE ONASSIS

Mother, beauty icon, fashion icon, First Lady, Philanthropist - and Erno Laszlo devotee. Known for her style, elegance, and grace, Jackie Onasis received custom prescriptions from Dr. Laszlo himself.

"Is there anything better than to be longing for something, when you know it is within reach?"

GRETA GARBO

Known for her "luminous and unforgettable screen performances" Garbo's skin lit up the big screen during the silent film era.