Our Story: 22 Years of Intentional Beauty
Cocoon Apothecary began in 2003 with one belief: nature holds the intelligence our skin needs most. Since then, founder Jessica Burman has spent two decades studying aromatherapy, perfumery, and plant science to create skincare that’s luxurious, ethical, and deeply effective.
Where It All Began
In 2003, a simple natural cream transformed a loved one’s skin and changed Jessica’s life. The following year, she earned her Aromatherapy Certification, studying how plant essences affect both skin and mood. This was the true beginning of her formulating career — blending art, science, and a deep respect for the skin’s natural balance.
Learning the Language of Scent
To refine her craft, Jessica travelled to Provence to study at the Grasse Institute of Perfumery — the historic home of fine fragrance. Among lavender fields and distilleries, she learned to compose scent with restraint, emotion, and respect for sensitive skin. These lessons shaped Cocoon’s signature aromatic identity: perfumes of purpose, not overpowering fragrance.
Mastering Plant Distillation
Later, in Spokane, Washington, Jessica studied plant distillation under world-renowned distiller Ann Harman. Working hands-on with copper stills and fresh botanicals, she learned how to capture the purest expressions of plants. That knowledge lives in every Cocoon formula — in the way our ingredients are chosen, extracted, and combined.
Two Decades of Conscious Craftsmanship
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2003
Cocoon Apothecary is founded in Kitchener, Ontario.
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2004
Jessica earns her Aromatherapy Certification and begins formulating in earnest.
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2006
One of Canada’s early online natural-skincare stores goes live, sharing ingredient transparency before it was mainstream.
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2011
Awarded Champion Status with the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of 150 non-profits who worked to elimate dangerous chemicals from personal care.
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2014
Our own factory and retail shop opens, maintaining production in-house for full control and traceability.
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2020
We begin getting our products certified Natural and Organic with Ecocert Cosmos.
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2023
Cocoon Spathecary opens as our sensory flagship spa, built around the formulas our customers already love.
What Defines Cocoon
- Scent with Purpose
Subtle compositions that uplift the senses without overwhelming sensitive skin. - Performance You Can Feel
Botanical actives that restore radiance, balance, and barrier strength. - Integrity in Every Detail
ECOCERT COSMOS, Canadian manufacturing, glass packaging, and a bottle return credit program. - Longevity Over Hype
Trusted, proven formulas refined over 22 years — not driven by trends.
“My goal has always been to make skincare feel like a ritual — something you look forward to every day.”
— Jessica Burman, Founder
Join the Ritual
Cocoon Apothecary isn’t just skincare. It’s a philosophy — one that celebrates nature, craft, and the quiet luxury of living intentionally. Experience what 22 years of care, study, and conscience can do for your skin.