Ecobiology: More than just a word, a philosophy emerging from skincare

Abstract

Background

Ecobiology is an ecosystemic approach to skincare created by Jean-Noël Thorel, the founder of an international skin care company. While it was groundbreaking at the time of its creation, both the company and the society in which it operates have changed. Thus, we questioned whether the term is still comprehensible and if its meaning pertains to contemporary society.

Methodology

Two semi-structured surveys targeting worldwide general public and the employees of an international company specialized in ecobiological skin care; a 2 two-hour advisory board with dermatologists from 11 countries; and 7 phone interviews with French dermatologists were conducted in order to determine the perception of the term “ecobiology,” its meaning, and its significance.

Results

The results show that there is confusion over the term, which has various meanings depending on cultural context. Nevertheless, our results indicate that it is a profound concept that is felt, rather than understood as the connection between human and the natural world that surrounds us.

Conclusion

The term remains a forward-looking concept that is more important than ever due to the current concern about the effects of nearly half a century of expanding consumerism. Our research indicates that underneath our cultural model of production based on the exploitation of nature, the human connection with the natural world remains deeply entrenched in our collective unconscious.