Dermatologist and founding scientist at SkinCeuticals (L'Oréal) Sheldon Pinnell has died, aged 76. Pinnell is known as the “founding father of topical antioxidants” and is credited for being one of the first scientists to patent a stable form of vitamin C proven to penetrate the skin.
Earlier in his career, he also made significant contributions to understanding how vitamin C acts in collagen biosynthesis. Pinnell, who earned his medical degree at Yale University, is survived by his wife Doren Madey Pinnell and three sons.
"It is our greatest privilege to have been able to help Dr. Pinnell bring his discovery of topical antioxidants to life. Prior to the introduction of topical vitamin C in the early 1990s, skincare professionals were largely limited to sunscreens to protect against the deleterious effects of the sun. It was Dr. Pinnell who gave the medical community the confidence to transform the approach to at-home skincare," said SkinCeuticals co-founders, Alden Pinnell and Russell Moon.
"Dr. Pinnell's philosophy and dedication to advancing science in the cosmeceutical landscape is unlike any we have ever seen, and he remains an inspiration for us today," added Brigitte Liberman, World Wide President, L'Oreal Active Cosmetic Division.