E45 CICA Soothe + Repair Cream

E45 is a heritage skincare brand with a rich history dating back to 1952. Originally developed by a Boots chemist in response to a customer's request for a product that could soothe and protect the skin, it was initially used exclusively in hospitals. By 1980, its reputation for clinical efficacy led to its introduction in retail pharmacies, where it became a staple for treating dry and sensitive skin conditions.

The brand's ownership has evolved significantly over recent decades. Long associated with the British-Dutch multinational Reckitt (formerly Reckitt Benckiser), E45 was sold to the Swedish group Karo Healthcare (formerly Karo Pharma) in early 2022. As of 2025, the brand has entered a new chapter following the acquisition of Karo Healthcare by the American global investment firm KKR (Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.). This transition marks a shift toward broader international distribution and modern omnichannel marketing while maintaining the brand's scientific and dermatological roots. Manufacturing continues to be concentrated in Europe, particularly within the United Kingdom and Sweden, to serve its primary markets.