01.21.19
Deciem's founder Brandon Truaxe has died. He was 40 years old.
Updated, January 22nd: The Estée Lauder Companies sent the following statement to Beauty Packaging:
Brandon Truaxe was a true genius, and we are incredibly saddened by the news of his passing. As the visionary behind Deciem, he positively impacted millions of people around the world with his creativity, brilliance and innovation. This is a profound loss for us all, and our hearts are with Nicola Kilner and the entire Deciem family.
Vox reported that acting CEO Nicola Kilner wrote an email to Deciem’s staff on Monday morning, January 21st, which said:
I can’t believe I am typing these words. Brandon has passed away over the weekend. Heartbroken doesn’t come close to how I, and how I know many of you will be feeling.
All offices, warehouses, factories and stores please close today and take the time to cry with sadness, smile at the good times we had, reflect on what his genius built and hug your loved ones that little harder.
We are all in disbelief and shock but I will be in touch again very soon.
I love you all incredibly much, as did he.
Truaxe had been hospitalized in December under suspicion of mental health issues, according to a report by Canada's Financial Post.
Truaxe founded Deciem and The Ordinary in 2013. The Ordinary skincare line quickly attracted a cult following, and Estée Lauder acquired a minority stake in the brand in 2017 -- before ousting Truaxe from the company in 2018.
Truaxe, on his personal Instagram, posted several bizarre videos on the days leading up to his death. No further details have been reported yet.
Deciem posted the following tribute below to its Instagram account. Truaxe, and his talent for creating innovative products and brands, will be greatly missed throughout the beauty industry.
