Neada Deters Founder LESSE

I have vivid memories of my grandmother's oils, creams and scents lined up on her dresser. She has the most beautiful skin I have ever seen, it's something she is known for—within our family, among her friends and commented upon by strangers.

She had five children so her skin care ritual was a rare moment by— and for —herself. I would sit and watch, and occasionally she would let me dab some cream on my face while she shared her skin care wisdom. I was wrapt from the start, and so much of the wisdom she shared is the foundation of how I think about skin care and formulating products today.

An ocean swim. It transports me home to Sydney, to my family and friends, and to my most loved memories. I have lived in the U.S. for a decade now but Sydney and its endless beaches will always be home.

I often hear that people are washing their face every day with hot water, which strips natural oils and causes skin to be more sensitive—using cool water with the right cleanser is the best way to wash your face. I also know many acne-prone people avoid oil-based products, but the best sebum regulators tend to be oils—it's just about looking for the best ones for acne-prone skin. I had adult cystic acne for years and our oil-based Ritual Serum has been completely transformative for my skin. I also hear of too many people not applying sunscreen until they leave the house, when those UV rays streaming through the window are absolutely affecting your skin. Apply as the last step in your morning skin care ritual!

Strangely, late at night. I think most people would assume I'm a morning person, but my energy levels soar around 9 or 10pm and I usually jump back into work for an hour or two—or pick up a book, if I know I really need to decompress.

We have a page of our core values for LESSE, which everyone on our team has access to—and I look at it constantly. It is a reminder of why we do what we do, and a great way to refocus and prioritize.

I'm absolutely obsessed with flea markets and vintage furniture. It might not be absurd but it is all-consuming! I go to flea markets almost every week and it's an absolute must whenever I travel. Our house is in a state of constant evolution, with new antiques being swapped in or entire rooms reorganised around a new vintage side table.