Founded in 2019 but rooted in years of experience at Rocco Forte Hotels, Irene Forte set out to create a skincare line that merges the best of nature and science. From sourcing ingredients directly from their certified organic farm in Sicily, to using artisan-crafted packaging – sustainability is at the heart of every decision. In this edition of Conversations with Changemakers, we explore how Irene Forte Skincare is driven by a vision to lead the industry in natural, science-backed and luxurious skincare.
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When was Irene Forte born, and what is its origin story?
Irene Forte Skincare was born early 2019, but its journey began years earlier during my time at Rocco Forte Hotels, where I spent nearly a decade overseeing spa and wellness. Through that experience, I saw an opportunity to elevate natural and experiential skincare by integrating scientific innovation. With our organic farm in Sicily as the foundation, I envisioned a skincare line rooted in nature but enhanced by science. In early 2014, I met Dr. Francesca Ferri, a pioneer in cleaner cosmetics with over 40 years of experience. Her philosophy aligned perfectly with mine, and together, we developed natural, clinically proven formulations inspired by the Mediterranean diet. My vision was to create natural, science-backed, and more sustainable formulations that bring the best of Mediterranean wellness to the world.
What is your brand ethos?
Our brand is built on the foundation of ‘Natural Science,’ where we leverage the power of science to unlock the best of nature. Our formulations are clinically proven and naturally derived. With our spa heritage in mind, we’ve crafted products that offer a truly luxurious experience; we developed unique, allergen-screened fragrances that provide a sensory indulgence while still maintaining our commitment to sensitive skin (we are certified for sensitive skin). Italy lies at the heart of everything we do. Our brand is 100% produced in Italy, drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean diet, which embodies natural, holistic wellness. Sustainability has been central to our mission from day one. As a proud Butterfly Mark and B Corp-certified company, we prioritise ethical ingredient sourcing, more sustainable packaging solutions, and support for our local community.
How has Irene’s five-star hospitality background influenced the integration of luxury into Irene Forte Skincare?
My background in five-star hospitality at Rocco Forte Hotels has been pivotal in shaping Irene Forte Skincare. During that time and through my experience working with the spas, I saw the opportunity for natural and experiential formulations to be improved by scientific insight. Rocco Forte Hotels also taught me that luxury isn’t just about delivering a highly effective product – it’s about how it makes you feel. That’s why Irene Forte Skincare combines the power of science, sustainability, and sensory indulgence, offering the best of all worlds without compromise.
From sustainably sourced ingredients to scientific innovation, how do the worlds of luxury and sustainability collide at Irene Forte?
Sustainability and luxury go hand in hand in our skincare line. We feel that the way we source our ingredients is true luxury. Many of our ingredients are sourced directly from our certified organic farm at Verdura Resort in Sicily. When we look beyond our own farm, we partner with local farmers and generational growers who uphold time-honoured traditions. Our Pistachio Oil comes from a nearby farm, just 20 minutes away, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest pistachios. The Gerbino Bianco white wine, prized for its fresh, antioxidant-rich properties, is sourced from the Di Giovanna vineyard, a short 40-minute drive from our estate. Even our water, drawn from the pristine Geraci springs in the Madonie Natural Park, is a testament to Sicilian excellence, known for its purity as it flows directly from deep limestone rock. Beyond Sicily, we collaborate with trusted farmers in the Trentino region, where our lab is based. All of our suppliers share our drive for sustainability, ensuring that every ingredient is vegan, never over-farmed, and free from harmful pesticides. Every step of our sourcing process is driven by precision, a deep respect for the planet, and finding the very best quality.
100% made in Italy, each element of our packaging is carefully crafted to reflect sustainability, artistry, and luxury. Our boxes are made from 100% recycled paper and printed with vegetable-based inks. We also collaborate with an artisan who hand-paints our box liners with a watercolour print of our Sicilian farm. Our glass bottles and jars contain up to 31% post-industrial recycled material and are fully recyclable. Each bottle is stone-finished, a detail that gives it a distinct, artisanal quality. Even our spatulas are handcrafted from Italian olive wood. Additionally, most of our products are refillable, allowing customers to indulge in our skincare while reducing waste.
What shifts in the beauty industry have you noticed in relation to sustainability? Is it enough?
Consumers are now demanding more transparency, cleaner formulations, and more sustainable practices, which is reshaping the industry. The rise of the Yuka app is making brands step up in terms of how they formulate. While progress has been made, especially in terms of clean ingredients, I still think there’s more work to be done, particularly when it comes to sustainable packaging. The beauty industry remains a major contributor to single-use plastic waste, and that’s something I’m passionate about changing.
How has working with Positive Luxury changed or informed your approach to sustainability?
Positive Luxury provides an exceptional framework that helps brands identify areas for improvement in their sustainability efforts. While no one can claim to be 100% sustainable, this approach allows us to clearly see where we can grow. They’re also incredibly supportive, offering valuable promotion and backing for brands like ours, which makes the journey toward sustainability feel both achievable and rewarding.
What’s next for Irene Forte?
I’m focused on building a brand that stands out as the leader in ‘Natural Science’ with a range that’s known for being more sustainable, natural, luxurious and yet highly effective. I want Irene Forte Skincare to be recognised as the best luxury Italian skincare brand. We’re just getting started, and I’m excited for the future as we continue to grow.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUTTERFLY MARK CERTIFIED IRENE FORTE
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