Peter Thomas Roth grew up on the Upper East Side of New York City. Like any teenager struggling with acne, he relied on dermatologist-recommended products. However, many treatments had frustrating side effects, such as irritation and redness. This experience fueled his desire to create effective, transparent skincare solutions.
Determined to take a new approach, Roth launched in 1993 Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care. “Brands were marketed as ‘super lush’ or ‘ultra-luxurious,’ but that didn’t tell me much about the ingredients or their benefits,” he says. “It’s important to get credit for the groundbreaking ingredients we have.”
Roth works with leading ingredient vendors to ensure his formulas use the latest technology. “Clinical testing is crucial. I’ve built strong relationships with some of the best ingredient vendors in the world, which allows me to stay at the forefront of innovation,” he explains. Each product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure safety, effectiveness, and accessibility for various demographics. All products are easily categorized under concerns such as wrinkles, acne, uneven skin, or dark spots.
Customer feedback and trends play a significant role in shaping the brand. With the rise of serums, Roth expanded the Retinol Fusion PM Serum into a body cream. ‘Based on what people wanted, we extended our retinol line to include a body cream that delivers powerful results,’ Roth shares. Another popular serum, the Peptide Skinjection Serum, has now inspired a new product: the Peptide Skinjection Expression Line Hydra-Gel Patches.
Keeping up with trends and consumerism is one of the biggest challenges because, in order to bring in the new, the old must be put to rest. “I put so much energy into every product, so when we have to discontinue something, it’s tough. But I always promise to deliver the latest and greatest to my customers,” he admits.
For DOWNTOWN’s 2024 Holiday Gift Guide this past holiday season, we spotlighted the Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer for its hydrating and refreshing formula. Our editors sampled the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer and loved it. The product went on smoothly and left skin feeling fresh and exfoliated with that Pumpkin Spice aroma that is impossible to resist!
Beyond skincare, Roth is passionate about raising awareness for Lyme disease, a condition that has personally impacted his life. Now on the path to recovery, he is dedicated to supporting research for better treatments. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his sons, Ryan and Brendan, and traveling. Some of his travels have inspired several product formulas. “I’ve been fortunate to travel to many places and have been particularly inspired by skincare in Asia,” he shares. “I’ve found amazing ingredients there and brought them back to my U.S. customers.”
Roth built his brand through persistence and innovation. His results-driven, science-backed formulas ensure they will continue to push boundaries in the beauty industry. Looking towards the future and focused on innovation, Roth states, “Stay tuned! While I can’t reveal too much, we’ll continue to deliver what our customers want. Follow us on TikTok and Instagram @peterthomasrothofficial for updates,” he says.