As a beauty editor, there are certain things I wished for in life: clear skin, longer hair, and for my favourite brands’ arrival in India. Well, folks, the skincare gods have finally smiled upon us because Dr.Jart+ is officially available on our shores! As someone who’s lugged calming creams back from various trips abroad, this news is nothing short of a miracle. Goodbye, begging friends to squeeze a tub of the Tiger Grass Colour Correcting Treatment into their luggage; hello, Nykaa!
I had to share my overflowing joy, so I hopped on a call with Julien Michelet, EMEA Education Manager & Brand Ambassador, Dr.Jart+. With years of experience in the beauty industry, Julien has been at the forefront of bringing Dr.Jart+’s innovative products to skincare aficionados worldwide. We chatted about their big launch in India, and he spilled all the tea—from why India’s got them pumped to his top hacks for that dreamy glass-skin glow. Trust me, you’re going to want to hear this!
ELLE: Dr.Jart+ has been at the forefront of global skincare innovation. For readers who might be discovering the brand for the first time, how would you describe Dr.Jart+ and its core philosophy?
Julien Michelet: Dr.Jart+ is a very dynamic, 100% Korean brand with a focus on delivering instant results through skincare innovation. With products designed and produced in Korea, Dr.Jart+ has been a part of daily Korean life since its debut in 2005. It’s all about SKIN, SCIENCE, and ART, three pillars that have guided the brand’s journey and its unique place in the beauty world.
ELLE: What excites you the most about officially bringing the brand to the Indian market?
JM: The Indian beauty market is more exciting than ever! It’s growing rapidly with unique trends, traditions, and skin concerns. I’m eager to see which of our products become the most loved by Indian audiences and how they integrate them into their skincare routines. Entering a new market is always full of surprises, and it’s where the magic happens!
ELLE: How do you plan to engage with your pre-existing fan base while also introducing the brand to new audiences here?
JM: I think our existing fans will absolutely love the innovations coming up, and new audiences will be excited to explore different ways to achieve that trendy glass-skin look. My aim is for both groups to connect. As a brand ambassador, I’m here to guide and ensure everyone has fun with Dr.Jart+. However, the true power lies in word-of-mouth. Our fan base will be our best advocates—truthfully, passionately, and honestly. It’s all about friends sharing what they love and trust, just as it was before social networks took over.
ELLE: K-beauty has gained immense popularity in India, especially among younger consumers. Why do you think that is?
JM: While anyone can enjoy using Korean products, it’s true that younger generations seem to be the most enthusiastic. I think it’s down to our dynamic innovations, sensible pricing, and the major beauty trends originating from Korea. Glass skin, sheet masks, hybrid products, unisex routines—these are just the beginning!
ELLE: What sets Dr.Jart+ apart from other K-beauty brands entering the market?
JM: Dr.Jart+ is unique because it seamlessly blends science, art, and innovation. Founded by an architect and a cutting-edge dermatologist in 2005, Dr.Jart+ was the first active derm skincare brand in Korea that didn’t require a doctor’s visit. Our textures and finishes allow everyone to layer products the Korean way. Unlike many clinical derma brands, we incorporate art and storytelling into our identity through collaborations with various art forms, making high-performance skincare fun and engaging.
ELLE: Can you share more about your personal experience with Dr.Jart+’s Cryo Rubber Masks?
JM: Funny you should ask! The Cryo Rubber Mask was actually the first Dr.Jart+ product I tried about ten years ago. I was immediately drawn to its cold texture after a long day or a short night’s sleep. We all know how cold therapy boosts skin microcirculation, offering long-term benefits while providing instant relief. It’s my secret weapon to snap back to life when things get too hectic. As a bearded man, I love that it comes in two parts; I use the top half on my face and the lower part on my neck. While the Cryo Rubber Mask isn’t in India just yet (it’s coming soon!), an amazing alternative is our Vital Hydra Solution Hydro Plump Overnight Mask.
ELLE: India has a diverse skincare landscape. How will Dr.Jart+’s formulations cater to various skin types and concerns?
JM: We’re fortunate to have moisturisers in different textures for any climate, season, or occasion. For instance, our Ceramidin collection was developed to hydrate and strengthen dry skin. Although we will eventually offer it in cream and butter for colder climates, we’re starting with a lightweight milky lotion perfect for humid regions or post-yoga sessions. Our Cicapair collection (yes that’s the one), aimed at boosting sensitive skin’s resilience, comes in both soft cream and refreshing gel textures. I’m sure you can guess which one I prefer!
ELLE: Dr.Jart+ is known for combining dermatological science with art. How does the brand balance being effective yet playful in its product designs?
JM: It comes naturally to us. Internally, we refer to our product collections as “albums” because they resemble paintings or music albums. A prime example is our mascots, like the white tiger representing our Cicapair collection. It symbolises strength, resilience, and the power of Centella Asiatica, a plant tigers use to heal their wounds. These mascots often become the starting point for various artistic collaborations.
ELLE: If you had to describe Dr.Jart+ as a character, what kind of persona would it embody?
JM: Dr.Jart+ stands for “Doctor Joins Art,” so I envision a brilliant scientist with a passion for innovation in both skincare science and art. Someone who is dedicated to making every skin strong, resilient, and beautiful, while inspiring the mind.
ELLE: You’ve been a part of some incredible product launches at Dr.Jart+. Is there a particular moment that stands out for you?
JM: My first Dr.Jart+ event—the German launch in Berlin—will always be unforgettable. It wasn’t just the talent and effort our local teams put into the event, but seeing people interact, try, and play with our products for the first time was magical. The wows, laughs, and aha moments are still close to my heart.
