A Legacy Beyond Skincare: Trevor Steyn's Final Book Celebrates the Science of the Skin Microbiome

South African skincare pioneer Trevor Steyn's final book, Skin as it should be: A Microbiome Guidebook, opens for pre-orders, carrying forward his vision for a more holistic understanding of skin health. 

The professional skincare industry continues to evolve as research brings new understanding to the relationship between the skin, its microbiome and overall skin health. One South African pioneer who played an important role in bringing this conversation to the forefront was Trevor Steyn, founder of Esse Skincare. 

To mark the first anniversary of his passing, Esse Skincare has announced the upcoming release of Steyn's final book, Skin as it should be: A Microbiome Guidebook. Completed before his passing, the publication represents a lasting contribution to the field of microbiome skincare and the philosophy that shaped the Esse brand. 

Pre-orders opened on 1 November 2026, with publication expected in early 2027. 

Rethinking the way we understand skin 

At the heart of Steyn's work was a different way of looking at the skin. Rather than viewing it simply as a surface requiring constant correction, he encouraged a greater understanding of skin as a living ecosystem, supported by a complex community of microorganisms. 

Across five chapters, the book explores the development of microbiome science, tracing its history from Antonie van Leeuwenhoek's first microscopes in the 1670s through to the Human Microbiome Project and modern metagenomic sequencing. 

It examines how human beings can be understood as ecosystems, the role of microbial communities in skin health and how modern hygiene practices, antibiotics and conventional skincare approaches may influence the skin's microbial environment. 

The guidebook also explores current microbiome-related techniques, including topical probiotics and microbiome transplants, while considering the future direction of skincare science. 

For aesthetic doctors, therapists and skincare professionals, these discussions offer an opportunity to explore the science behind an increasingly important area of professional skincare. Understanding the relationship between the skin barrier, microbial diversity and external influences can contribute to more informed conversations about skin health and treatment approaches. 

The book also includes practical tips, data visualisations and scientific references, making complex research more accessible to both professionals and interested readers. 

A legacy that extends beyond the skin 

Perhaps one of the most meaningful aspects of this publication is where its proceeds will go. 

Net proceeds from the book will support the Forest Restoration Initiative at Thula iNyoni, a conservation project in Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal. The region held special significance for Steyn, who lived there and raised his family for more than 20 years. 

Led by local farmer Tyron Walsh, the initiative focuses on clearing alien invasive species, protecting remaining natural spaces and planting indigenous trees specific to the Eastern Mistbelt Forest. 

The project reflects a philosophy closely connected to Steyn's work in skincare: the importance of biodiversity and the resilience that comes from healthy, balanced ecosystems. 

Bridget Schofield, Chief Executive Officer of Esse Skincare, who worked alongside Trevor for 18 years, explains that supporting indigenous forest restoration was a fitting way to honour his legacy and his personal connection to the natural world. 

The initiative also works with the Siyabona Community Development Initiative to support local communities. 

Continuing the conversation around microbiome skincare 

Founded in South Africa in 2002 by chemist Trevor Steyn, Esse Skincare has become an internationally recognised professional microbiome skincare brand, distributing its products in more than 42 countries. 

Its approach incorporates live probiotics, prebiotics and ecologically responsible active ingredients to support the skin's microbiome and barrier function. 

Steyn's final book brings together many of the ideas that informed this approach, offering readers an opportunity to explore the science and thinking behind his work. 

For South Africa's professional beauty and aesthetic medicine industries, his contribution is a reminder of the importance of continued research, education and questioning conventional approaches to skin health. 

Skin as it should be: A Microbiome Guidebook is more than a publication about skincare. It is a reflection of a professional journey, a scientific philosophy and a commitment to the natural world that will continue through the work of Esse and the restoration of South Africa's indigenous forests. 

Book details 

Pre-order the book: https://www.esseskincare.com/book-launch-skin-as-it-should-be/