The current skincare space is full of so many new brands, curated for various skin types, ethics, and philosophies. (And we’re grateful for that!) It can be hard for new brands to break through the noise, but Ascension, an edible vegan skincare brand founded in 2018 by multi-hyphenate Max Hemphill (the photographer for our first- ever Grazia Gazette cover!), is doing just that. Centered around detoxification, repair, and protection, the line first came into being when Hemphill began his journey into veganism.
“I wanted the products I used to reflect my new lifestyle” says Hemphill. “After I had contracted a parasite in the Dominican Republic, I started using diatomaceous earth and saw tremendous effects.”
This sparked his vision of what the beauty and wellness industry should look like: rooted in both spiritual and physical wellness. The gender-neutral brand thoughtfully curates every item to work together for a holistic skincare regimen; Ascension is not only environmentally, eco- conscious but incredibly affordable within the skincare sector, with products ranging from $16 to $26.
“Our products are made with raw ingredients and are intended for internal and external use. We strive to provide inner and outer beauty through a holistic approach,” Hemphill tells Grazia Gazette: Los Angeles. “Our intention is for people to understand that skincare is also a part of self-care, and our hope is to make it easy for our customers to achieve their sense of beauty with our products.”
For first- time users of the brand, Hemphill recommends the Rose 528 face and body spray ($25).
“It’s truly my favorite because it’s so easy and quick to use, and it really does a fantastic job at uplifting your mood while hydrating the skin with trace minerals.”
Written by Shelton Boyd-Griffith
