Outdoor enthusiasts who hike mountain trails or cycle rugged paths often neglect their skincare routines when facing extreme environmental conditions. Standard skincare products frequently fail to protect adventurers’ skin from drying out and nature’s harsh elements. Jerome Vacca established Explorer’s Glow to address the skincare industry gap he identified as an explorer and entrepreneur.
The flagship face serum from Pure Vitalis represents how Jerome and his team developed a superior skincare product that enables users to face challenging environments with confidence. The serum combines cross-linked hyaluronic acids with vitamins and natural extracts to deliver non-greasy deep hydration and protection.
Jerome provides insights into Explorer’s Glow origins during this exclusive interview while discussing the challenges encountered in creating a minimalist yet high-performance skincare line and the brand’s future plans to redefine skincare for active lifestyles.
What inspired you to create Explorer’s Glow, and how does your passion for the outdoors influence your approach to skincare?
Explorer’s Glow was born from a personal need and a deep passion for the outdoors.
As someone who has spent countless hours in nature—whether hiking in the mountains, climbing, or simply pushing my limits in challenging environments—I realized that traditional skincare wasn’t made for people like me. The elements—sun, wind, cold, and dry air—take a serious toll on the skin, yet most products on the market were either too heavy, too complicated, or simply ineffective in extreme conditions.
I wanted to create something different: a skincare solution built for adventurers, designed to perform in the real world, not just in a lab. My goal was to simplify skincare while making it more powerful and efficient, so people could focus on their adventures rather than worrying about their skin. If a product can protect your skin in the most demanding conditions, it can certainly handle everyday life.
Explorer’s Glow embodies this philosophy—it’s not just about skincare; it’s about supporting an active lifestyle, embracing the elements, and ensuring that your skin can keep up with your journey. Every formula we develop is tested in real outdoor environments, and we continuously push ourselves to innovate, ensuring that our products meet the needs of explorers, athletes, and anyone who values simplicity and performance in their skincare.
Pure Vitalis is designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. What challenges do people with active lifestyles face when it comes to skincare, and how does your product address those challenges?
People with active lifestyles face a unique set of skincare challenges that most conventional products don’t address. Harsh environmental conditions like wind, sun, extreme temperatures, and dry air can strip moisture from the skin, weaken its barrier, and accelerate premature aging. Sweat and exposure to outdoor pollutants further increase the risk of dehydration, irritation, and skin damage. The problem? Most skincare products aren’t built for these conditions. They’re either too greasy, get washed away by sweat, or require multiple steps—something impractical for people on the move.
That’s exactly why Pure Vitalis was created—to be a high-performance, all-in-one skincare solution that provides long-lasting hydration, skin barrier protection, and recovery support in any environment. The formula is powered by Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, an advanced form of hyaluronic acid that forms a moisturizing film on the skin, locking in hydration for hours—even in extreme conditions. Unlike traditional products, it works with your skin, not against it, absorbing quickly and leaving no greasy residue.
More importantly, Pure Vitalis simplifies skincare for people who don’t have time for complex routines. Just one lightweight, fast-absorbing serum is all you need to hydrate, protect, and restore your skin—whether you’re scaling a mountain, running a marathon, or simply going about your day. It’s minimalist, effective, and designed for those who push their limits.”
Your brand focuses on a minimalist and holistic approach to skincare. Why was it important for you to take this direction instead of following traditional beauty industry trends?
The beauty industry is filled with overcomplicated routines, excessive products, and marketing that often feels disconnected from real-world needs. I wanted to challenge that. When you spend time in the outdoors, carrying multiple skincare products simply isn’t practical. You need something effective, lightweight, and versatile—skincare that works with your lifestyle, not against it. That’s where minimalism and a holistic approach became essential to our philosophy.
For me, skincare should be about performance and simplicity, not about an overwhelming 10-step routine. Pure Vitalis was designed as an all-in-one solution, eliminating the need for multiple products while delivering everything your skin needs: deep hydration, barrier protection, and recovery from environmental stress.
The holistic aspect is just as important. We don’t see skincare as just a beauty ritual—it’s part of a lifestyle. Your skin reflects your environment, your activities, and how you take care of yourself. That’s why we formulate Pure Vitalis with scientifically proven, skin-friendly ingredients that don’t just hydrate but also support skin resilience and long-term health. It’s unisex, effective, and built for modern explorers—because great skincare should be powerful, effortless, and adaptable to any situation.
By rejecting traditional beauty marketing and focusing on what actually works, we’re creating a movement that’s not about perfection, but about real skin, real adventures, and real results.”
Can you explain how the combination of cross-linked hyaluronic acids, vitamins, and natural extracts in Pure Vitalis works to protect and hydrate the skin?
In Pure Vitalis, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer is the star ingredient, delivering multi-layer hydration and skin barrier support tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pure Vitalis is formulated using a multi-layered hydration system, designed to protect the skin from harsh environmental conditions while ensuring long-lasting moisture retention.
The key to its efficacy lies in Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, a modified form of hyaluronic acid that forms a stable, long-lasting hydration network on the skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer or PEG-9 DIGLYCIDYL ETHER is a highly advanced version of hyaluronic acid. Its cross-linked structure allows it to retain moisture up to five times longer than regular HA, significantly reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
Unlike standard HA, which is quickly degraded by enzymes, this cross-linked form provides continuous hydration by creating a protective film on the skin’s surface, reinforcing the barrier against wind, cold, and pollution.
Low and medium molecular weight hyaluronic acids penetrate deeper into the epidermis, attracting and binding water within the skin layers, ensuring both instant and sustained hydration.
-Vitamins C, E, and B5: Antioxidant & Repair Functions
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) plays a critical role in protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by sun exposure and pollution. It supports collagen synthesis, helping to maintain skin firmness and elasticity.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) works in synergy with Vitamin C to enhance free radical defense, preventing premature aging and strengthening the skin’s natural defense mechanisms.
Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate) has soothing and regenerative properties, helping to calm irritation, reduce redness, and accelerate post-exposure skin recovery, particularly useful for those exposed to extreme outdoor conditions.
-Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract: Natural Skin Calming & Protection
This botanical extract has been scientifically recognized for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It reduces UV-induced skin damage, minimizes redness, and protects against free radicals, further supporting the skin’s resilience in harsh climates.
The combination of hydration-boosting, antioxidant, and protective ingredients in Pure Vitalis creates an intelligent skincare system that not only hydrates but also shields the skin from environmental stressors and promotes long-term skin health. The formulation is designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring that skin remains hydrated, resilient, and well-protected in the face of sun, wind, cold, and sweat.
Sustainability seems to be a key aspect of Explorer’s Glow, from your recyclable packaging to your natural ingredients. How do you ensure your products remain environmentally friendly while maintaining high performance?
Yes, sustainability is at the core of Explorer’s Glow, but we recognize that there is still work to be done. Our approach is not about claiming perfection but about making continuous, meaningful progress toward reducing our environmental impact while ensuring the highest product performance.
One of our most exciting developments is the introduction of refillable packaging. We are currently working on a refill bag system that will allow customers to reuse their existing bottles, significantly reducing plastic waste. This innovation should be ready in a couple of months and marks an important step in our commitment to more responsible consumption.
Another key initiative is local production in every market where we operate. By manufacturing closer to our customers, we aim to reduce transportation emissions, minimize our carbon footprint, and support local economies. This transition is already in motion, and we believe it will have a lasting positive impact.
Ingredient safety and sustainability are also central to our evolution. While Pure Vitalis already has an impressive rating of 93/100 on Yuka, our goal is to reach 100/100 for all future formulations. To achieve this, we are prioritizing more locally sourced, natural, and safe ingredients while maintaining the same level of efficacy and scientific precision.
We believe that performance and sustainability should go hand in hand. Our mission is to create highly effective skincare that respects both the skin and the planet, and while we are not yet where we want to be, we are committed to making continuous improvements with every new product we develop.
You emphasize a unisex approach to skincare. How do you think the industry is evolving in terms of gender-neutral products, and why is this important for today’s consumers?
I believe that the skincare industry is undergoing a significant shift toward gender-neutral formulations, and this evolution is not just a passing trend—it reflects a fundamental change in how people view skincare. More than ever, consumers are rejecting traditional marketing stereotypes that categorize products as “for men” or “for women.” Instead, they are looking for effective solutions based on science, quality, and performance—regardless of gender.
The beauty and fashion industries are rapidly evolving towards gender-neutral products, driven by changing consumer values and a growing demand for inclusivity. This shift is important for today’s consumers for several reasons.
For expemple market studies show that consumer preferences are changing: 48% of Gen Z consumers value brands that don’t classify items as male or female. This indicates a significant shift in consumer attitudes, particularly among younger generations.
But our decision to go for a gender-neutral product has less to do with the market trends than my own experience and frustation:
In fact, my journey into gender-neutral skincare began with my own frustration in finding an effective product. I was part of French military’s elite alpine troops I have always been mindful of enviromental stressors on my skin, but after every shower or outdoor session, it felt dry and tight. I tried multiple men’s creams, but none provided lasting hydration. Women’s creams seemed more effective, but they were often too expensive or too complex for my taste.
One day, by chance, I used my girlfriend’s serum with hyaluronic acid. To my surprise, it immediately relieved my discomfort, and unlike other products, the hydration lasted all day. Intrigued, I started researching hyaluronic acid, discovering its powerful ability to retain water and deeply hydrate the skin. Yet, I couldn’t find anything on the market that fit my needs—something simple, effective, and suitable for everyone. That’s when I decided to create Pure Vitalis, a high-performance serum equally effective for both men and women.
This is how the concept started: Developping a skincare should be about performance, not marketing labels. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, an athlete, or someone simply looking for a powerful yet simple skincare solution, you deserve a product designed for your skin—not your gender.
As an entrepreneur, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced in launching Explorer’s Glow, and how did you overcome them?
Launching Explorer’s Glow has been an incredible journey, but like any entrepreneurial adventure, it came with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was breaking into an industry dominated by well-established brands with massive marketing budgets. Competing with these giants as an independent brand meant we had to be strategic, resourceful, and bold in how we positioned ourselves. Instead of following traditional beauty industry norms, we focused on authenticity, performance, and a deep connection with the outdoor community.
Another major challenge was product development. We were determined to create a high-performance formula that could truly meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts—hydration that lasts, protection against the elements, and a formula that respects the skin and the environment. Finding the right balance between science-backed effectiveness and natural, skin-friendly ingredients took time, research, and countless iterations. But we refused to compromise, and today, Pure Vitalis delivers on that promise.
We came together as a team of about 20 volunteers, all passionate outdoor enthusiasts. Over the course of a year, we pooled our ideas and experiences, brainstorming what would become the heart of our product. After much deliberation, we landed on hyaluronic acid—but not just any form of it. We chose Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, a next-level ingredient known for its superior hydration and skin protection.
To get it just right, we worked with multiple laboratories, testing and refining different formulas until we found the perfect blend. It was a journey of collaboration, experimentation, and a shared commitment to creating something truly special for outdoor adventurers like us.
Logistics and production were also a complex puzzle to solve. We wanted to ensure sustainability at every level, from packaging to ingredient sourcing, while still keeping our product accessible. That meant working with local suppliers, developing a refill system, and ensuring that as we scale, we stay true to our values. It’s an ongoing challenge, but one that we embrace as part of our mission.
Lastly, I had to wear many hats—from product developer to brand strategist to logistics manager. Surrounding myself with a strong team of passionate outdoor enthusiasts, dermatologists, and scientific researchers has been key to overcoming these challenges. We all share a vision of creating a brand that goes beyond skincare—one that embodies adventure, sustainability, and high performance.
At the end of the day, every challenge has reinforced our belief that Explorer’s Glow is more than just a product—it’s a movement. And that’s what keeps us pushing forward.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Explorer’s Glow? Are there new products or innovations in the pipeline that you can share with us?
Explorer’s Glow is just getting started, and we’re pushing forward on multiple fronts to expand our impact, refine our products, and build a stronger community. Our core mission remains the same: to create high-performance skincare for outdoor enthusiasts while actively contributing to environmental and social change.
One of our top priorities is expanding our product line to offer a complete skincare routine tailored for people who live and breathe the outdoors. We’re currently developing a non-greasy, high-protection SPF that complements Pure Vitalis, ensuring long-lasting hydration while shielding the skin from sun damage—without the typical white cast or greasy feel. We’re also finalizing a refill system that will allow customers to reuse their bottles, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.
To take our innovations further, we’re actively seeking new ingredients, laboratories, and production partners. That’s why we will be attending Cosmoprof in Bologna, the world’s most important trade fair for the beauty industry. We’re eager to expand our partnerships and find a European producer who shares our values of quality, sustainability, and innovation. In addition, we’re in discussions with South Korean laboratories, renowned for their cutting-edge advancements in skincare. By collaborating with the best in the industry, we ensure that Explorer’s Glow continues to deliver top-tier, science-backed formulations.
We believe that real-world performance is the ultimate test for skincare. That’s why we want to expand our community of testers—and we welcome everyone to participate. Outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, travelers, and anyone passionate about skincare and adventure can join us in testing and refining our future products. Skincare shouldn’t be developed in a lab alone—it should be proven in nature.
We also believe that skincare and environmental responsibility go hand in hand and we want to raise awareness and contribute to meaningful environmental and social change.
We are particularly committed to supporting environmental and social causes, which is why we are exploring partnerships with organizations like The Horn Foundation. This foundation takes direct action for both the planet and its people, implementing impactful field projects and providing a platform for individuals to become active participants in change.
While we are currently focused on the U.S. market, our next big step is expanding into Europe. In the next five years, we aim to establish a strong presence across European markets, bringing our unique approach to outdoor skincare.
From the editor….
Explorer’s Glow distinguishes itself in the evolving skincare industry through its dedication to performance, simplicity and sustainable practices. Jerome Vacca has developed a skincare vision that transcends basic product creation by establishing a movement focused on adventure, nature respect, and beauty norm disruption.
Pure Vitalis represents Jerome’s innovative response to outdoor enthusiasts that maintains the brand’s commitment to minimalism and holistic principles. Through his future-focused vision featuring new product development and international expansion Explorer’s Glow proves itself to be more than just a skincare brand but represents a complete lifestyle.
Explorer’s Glow provides resilient skincare protection for people who live life boldly and explore without boundaries.
Learn more and visit Explorer’s Glow at https://explorersglow.com
