Barbara Sturm began her career as a medical doctor before shifting her focus to skincare, applying a deeply clinical and scientific approach to the beauty world. Initially known only within beauty editor circles and an elite celebrity clientele, her reputation expanded in the early 2000s with the rise of her now-legendary blood plasma facial. In 2002, the treatment—later widely referred to as the “Vampire Facial”—captured global attention. This was followed by MC1, a prescription-only cream created from a patient’s own plasma. Offered exclusively through consultation and accompanied by extensive waiting lists, it introduced a new level of exclusivity to skincare.
Today, her globally recognised skincare range—founded on the principle that inflammation, not ageing, is the true enemy of healthy skin—is trusted by skincare enthusiasts and high-profile figures around the world.
As the festive season wrapped up, we caught up to discuss beauty inspirations, skincare routines, and the places that bring her joy.
Barbara Sturm London Spa & Boutique
Located on Mount Street, this destination is considered an essential stop for skincare devotees.
A Cozy Holiday at Home
I recently spent the Christmas period at home in the mountains, surrounded by family and close friends. We enjoy a calm, cozy, and relaxed Christmas, filled with good food, baking with my daughters, and plenty of time outdoors walking the dogs and skiing.
From Medicine to Skincare Innovation
My journey into beauty was unconventional. With a background in medicine and molecular orthopedics, I struggled to find products that addressed my own skin concerns—dryness, congestion, and irritation. When nothing worked, I decided to create solutions myself. I applied my scientific expertise to develop skincare initially for personal use and for my patients, focusing on reducing inflammation, strengthening the skin barrier, and supporting the microbiome.
Beauty Icons and Personal Philosophy
My mother has always been my ultimate beauty icon. She rarely wore makeup, yet her skin constantly glowed. Her beauty felt effortless and authentic, rooted in confidence, individuality, and inner strength. To me, true beauty comes from inner peace and happiness, supported by a balanced lifestyle, an anti-inflammatory diet, quality sleep, daily movement, and consistent self-care.
A Career Milestone
One of my proudest professional moments was when David Olsen, then Vice President of Beauty at Net-a-Porter, introduced my products to the platform. At that time, beauty was rarely sold by online fashion retailers, making it a defining milestone in my career. I remain deeply grateful for that opportunity.
Dr. Sturm’s Essential Beauty & Wellness Picks
- Dr. Barbara Sturm Everything Hydrogel Masks (£125 for 8, en.drsturm.com)
- Gold Oura Ring (£499, ouraring.com)
- HigherDOSE Full Body Red Light Mat (£1,159.00, cultbeauty.co.uk)
Daily Non-Negotiables
The beauty and wellness products I can’t live without include my Everything Hydrogel Masks, which deliver hydration, brightness, firmness, smoothness, and soothing benefits for an instantly refreshed glow. I regularly use a red light bed to encourage skin regeneration, reduce inflammation, and support cellular energy as part of my recovery and skin health routine. My Oura Ring helps monitor sleep quality and recovery, keeping me accountable and optimising my rest patterns.
