Eric Pressly first discovered his talent for innovation while pursuing his PhD in materials science, working on everything from developing lifesaving pharmaceuticals to inventing the bond-building category in haircare. Pressly's journey began with the development of Olaplex. His innovative work earned him widespread recognition and profoundly impacted the haircare industry, revolutionizing the category by setting new standards for repair and strength at a molecular level.
Fast-forward ten years, and Pressly holds over 100 patents in bond-building technology and has created the next generation of high-performance haircare, launching Epres. Powered by his cutting-edge chemistry, Epres is dedicated to creating scientifically advanced haircare solutions in patented, professional-grade formulas that are easy to use, easier on the environment, and truly perform.
A tight assortment of products features the patented biodiffusion technology, which accelerates drying time and repairs hair even after it dries, distinguishing it from competitors. The Epres formula excludes quaternary amines, which are large, sticky molecules that coat each strand and burden the environment, highlighting a commitment to clean, high-performance ingredients.
Since launching in Q4 of 2022, Epres has secured over 20 global distribution partners and launched multiple brand sites running in country e-commerce. From 2022 to 2023, the company achieved double-digit growth, a testament to Pressly's strategic vision and innovative products. This impressive growth trajectory is expected to continue, with projections indicating strong double-digit growth in 2024, driven by a global salon rollout.
BeautyMatter caught up with Eric Pressly, Founder of Epres and BeautyMatter NEXT 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist.
The most common trait in entrepreneurs is passion. What fuels your passion as an entrepreneur?
My passion is to solve problems using technology that has not been solved, whether it is to make something that does not exist or to make something that does exist only simpler and/or safer.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?
I am most proud of what I have accomplished without having to compromise my character, which is something most entrepreneurs are pressured to do.
On the flipside, failure is part of being an entrepreneur. What is the best mistake you've made?
I have made so many mistakes that it is hard to pick a favorite.
In the past decade, the word "entrepreneur" has been glamorized and romanticized. In reality, it's really hard and comes with a lot of ups and downs. What keeps you going?
One of the best parts of being an entrepreneur is to see your vision come to life. Having the experience of doing that multiple times gives me the wherewithal to continue through the constant challenges that arise.
Being an entrepreneur isn't something that can be taught in a classroom. What's been the biggest learning from being in the trenches and operating a business you wish you'd known?
I am still learning …
The dark side of entrepreneurship can be isolation, loneliness, and burnout. How do you take care of yourself?
I think that exercise and outdoors are very helpful, which may sound cliché, but there are more entrepreneurs in nice climates where they can be outdoors more easily, and I believe there is some correlation here.
What is the best piece of advice you've received that has guided you?
A learning from science that applies well to business is knowing when to cut your losses. All scientists are entrepreneurs in a way, as they invest their time into trying something new and most of the time, like starting a business, it does not work out. The trick is balancing and giving it your all without going too far.
