Former Kiehl's President Chris Salgardo Launches Atwater, a Streamlined Men's Skincare Brand

Chris Salgardo, who spent 18 years at Kiehl's including 12 as President, launched Atwater in August 2022. The brand aims to simplify men's skincare without sacrificing performance, targeting a modern audience seeking long-term skin health.

Atwater enters a rapidly evolving men's grooming market where many products are either overly complex or outdated. The brand positions itself as an accessible yet effective alternative, rooted in expert formulation and education.

Rather than dumbing down routines, Atwater creates streamlined regimens that are easy to understand and integrate into daily life. The product line focuses on clarity and results, appealing to men who may not have previously prioritized skincare.

In just three years, Atwater has accumulated more than 30 industry awards and gained distribution in prestige retailers including Saks, Bloomingdale's, and Bluemercury. This rapid recognition underscores the brand's resonance with both consumers and industry experts.

Salgardo's deep understanding of the men's grooming consumer, honed over nearly two decades at a leading beauty house, gives Atwater a competitive edge in product clarity and founder authority.