Founded in 1882 by Andrew Jergens Sr. and Charles H. Geilfus, The Andrew Jergens Company was originally known as The Jergens Soap Company, with a coconut oil soap as its original product. In 1901 the Company purchased the John H. Woodbury Company and their highly popular products including “Woodbury Facial Soap”. Also purchased was the Robert Eastman Company, maker of creams and lotions. Their most superior formula eventually became the original Jergens Lotion, soon to become the number one selling hand lotion in America.

Jergens continued to expand its product lines throughout the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s, and launched Dryad® Roll-On antiperspirant and deodorant, the Clear Complexion Bar, and bubble bath under the Jergens® Nature Scents and Gentle Touch® brands. Their first liquid hand wash, enriched with Jergens® lotion was launched in 1980.

As the Company grew into new areas, Jergens® products continued the tradition of quality and experience that people knew, trusted, and respected. So when Kao Corporation of Japan decided to expand into the US market in the late 1980’s, they immediately took an interest in The Andrew Jergens Company, acquiring it in 1988.

Throughout the 1990’s, Kao Corporation acquired several new brands, filling out its diverse portfolio of products under The Andrew Jergens Company umbrella. In 1997, the Biore® skin care product line successfully debuted in the U.S., followed by the acquisition of Curel® in 1998 and then Ban® brand deodorant antiperspirant in 2000.

In September 2002, The Andrew Jergens Company expanded into the hair care arena with the purchase of the John Frieda Professional Hair Care businesses. Founded in 1990 by the famous British hairdresser John Frieda, the uniquely targeted, salon-heritage-based hair care product company had become a true market leader and a favorite among celebrities and beauty experts. Brands like Frizz-Ease®, Sheer Blonde® and Brilliant Brunette® are all targeted to provide exceptional results to specific hair types and shades.