Sol de Janeiro is an American skincare and fragrance brand founded in 2015 by Korean-American Heela Yang. Sol de Janeiro products are inspired by Brazilian beach culture and are known for its signature scent base of pistachio and vanilla. The brand is majority-owned by Groupe L'Occitane, and literally means “Sun of January”.
Jordan Saxemard was named CEO in April 2026, following the exit of founder and CEO, Heela Yang.
History Sol de Janeiro was founded in 2015 by Heela Yang, Marc Capra, and Camila Pierotti.
In 2021, Groupe L'Occitane acquired a majority stake in Sol de Janeiro, valuing the company at US$450 million.L’Occitane to Acquire Sol de Janeiro: L'Occitane is buying a majority stake in Sol de Janeiro, while the founder and CEO will maintain a minority position. Women's Wear Daily, Allison Collins, November 15, 2021
In April 2026, brand cofounder Heela Yang stepped down as CEO and was succeeded by Jordan Saxemard.
Spider pheromone hoax In December 2023, a review of a Sol de Janeiro moisturizer claimed the cream contained pheromones that attracted male spiders. Sol de Janeiro denied the rumors, and experts labeled it unlikely.
Marketing Sol de Janeiro has collaborated with social media influencers such as Ellyza Nelson. Euphoria star Barbie Ferreira was chosen as a brand ambassador in 2023. Klitos Teklos served as interim chief creative officer at Sol de Janeiro through 2026 before becoming Tory Burch's first chief brand officer.
Awards and honors Fast Company named Sol de Janeiro to its 2024 list of the most innovative companies.
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