Mother Science Lands on Sephora Shelves

Mother Science, the biotech skincare disruptor founded by Incubus guitarist Mike Einziger and violinist Ann Marie Simpson Einziger, has officially secured its first US retail partner: Sephora.

The origin story is less of a conventional beauty launch and more of a scientific detour. While most musicians leave a tour with ringing ears and lots of laundry, Ann Marie emerged from hers in 2016 with a curious skin condition — and a hypothesis that would eventually shape the launch of a biotech skincare brand. The harmless condition caused lightened patches on her back, prompting the couple to investigate the underlying biology rather than simply treat the symptoms. Working with a team of scientists, they identified the potential of malassezin — a molecule largely unexplored in skincare — which went on to become the catalyst for Mother Science.

According to Mother Science, malassezin is an antioxidant said to be 10 times more powerful than vitamin C, offering a breakthrough for those looking to diminish sun damage and hyperpigmentation without the stability issues or irritation often associated with traditional brightening agents.

“We are excited to partner with Sephora as our first retailer,” says Edna Coryell, CEO of Mother Science. “This milestone represents an exciting new chapter for our brand and a meaningful step in our mission to deliver our patented breakthrough ingredient, malassezin, to the world.”

The brand enters Sephora with its full three-product lineup:

Mother Science Molecular Hero Serum ($89)

Billed as the first skincare formula to feature malassezin, this glow-boosting serum targets sun damage and hyperpigmentation with visible results claimed in as little as two weeks. Positioned as a next-generation alternative to vitamin C, the serum is designed to deliver brighter, more even-looking skin without the usual stability issues.

Mother Science Retinol Synergist ($96)

This forward-thinking formula pairs malassezin with retinol to help support the skin barrier and dial down the dryness and irritation often associated with retinol use. The result? A smoother, more refined-looking complexion that feels approachable for sensitive skin types, retinol rookies, and anyone who has previously tapped out.

Mother Science Molecular Genesis Barrier Repair Moisturiser ($68)

Think of this as barrier care with benefits. Powered by malassezin and bolstered by growth factors, peptides, squalane, and hyaluronic acid, the plush yet non-greasy cream is designed to lock in moisture, reinforce the skin’s defences, and leave it looking firmer in four weeks.

“Sephora is thrilled to partner with Mother Science and introduce their line of next-generation clinical skincare products,” says Brooke Banwart, SVP of Skincare Merchandising at Sephora. “We know our clients value innovative brands with intentional formulation, and Mother Science delivers on that through a science-first approach and focus on highly efficacious ingredients.”

Mother Science is now available online at sephora.com and will hit physical shelves on 13 March. For those across the pond hoping to get their hands on the malassezin-powered range, you’ll have to wait; the brand is currently not available in the UK.