The History of Avène

In the two and a half centuries since the Avène Thermal Spring was discovered in the depths of the earth in the heart of Southern France, it has continued to be revered for efficacy and relief in the treatment of skin ailments, particularly skin inflammation and irritation.

1736

Discovery of the Avène water's activity.  

Soon after, the first patients arrived to start using the water at the spring.

1743

First spa built in the town of Avène.  

The first dermatological treatments prove Avène to be a genuine "soothing source".  

1871

The Great Fire of Chicago.  

Chicago is devastated by the Great Fire. To soothe the skin of the many victims, barrels of Avène Thermal Water are shipped west to America.

1874

Avène Thermal Water is declared of "Public Benefit" by the French Authorities.  

1966

The Avène treatments approved for payment by the French Social Welfare  

Avène treatments specifically prescribed by doctors are approved for payment by the French Social Welfare as appropriate treatment for some skin conditions.  

1975

Avène officially joins Pierre Fabre Laboratories.  

Mister Pierre Fabre notices the spring and hears about its great properties. He decides to buy it to carry out more medical studies and find out the activity of the water.

1977

The renovation of the Avène Spa begins.  

Pierre Fabre Laboratories transform the Avène Thermal Spa into an advanced centre specialising in scientific hydrotherapy.  

1981

Avène Thermal Spring Water and Skin care products are first marketed for home use.  

Initially only the water spray was available, and encouraged by its success, Pierre Fabre Laboratories decided to extend their offering by developing a more diverse range based on the Avène water.  

1990

The Avène brand is born and the new Hydrotherapy Centre is established.

2005

Expansion of the Avène Hydrotherapy Centre to accommodate to up to 4,000 patients.