History of the Foundation

Origins of the Orentreich Foundation for the Advancement of Science

Our Founder 
Norman Orentreich received his MD degree from New York University College of
Medicine in 1948. He became a diplomat of the National Board of Medical Examiners in
1949 and American Board of Dermatology in 1953. During his post-graduate training at
New York University’s Skin and Cancer hospital, Dr. Orentreich pioneered the research,
creation, and performance of the very first hair transplant to treat male pattern baldness.
After having established his dermatology practice (OMG, LLP), he went on to found the
biomedical research organization known as the Orentreich Foundation for the
Advancement of Science, Inc. (OFAS, Inc.). In 1968, Dr. Orentreich collaborated with
Carol Phillips and the Lauder family to develop the internationally renowned skincare
product line, Clinique. In 1970, he became the first President of the American Society
for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Orentreich created and developed multiple procedures
and treatments for skin, hair, and nail maintenance. He invented and patented
medicines and medical devices for rejuvenating scarred and aging skin. He also wrote
hundreds of articles and book chapters for medical textbooks and journals.

Under Dr. Orentreich’s guidance, research at OFAS, Inc. expanded to encompass
aging, cancer, dermatology, and serum biomarkers, resulting in an extensive list of
papers in peer-reviewed publications.

Dr. Orentreich passed away on January 23, 2019; however, his legacy prevails as
OFAS continues its dedication to the prevention, suspension or reversal of those
disorders that decrease the quality or length of life.