“In 1994, just as I was starting out as a journalist, I visited Myanmar. My mission was to reconnect with my mother’s family, after a separation of over 50 years. My relatives were over the moon to be back in touch, as was I. Something about them, something about this country, got under the skin of this otherwise very traditionally “English” girl, and over time, an idea formed to create a beauty brand that infused the magic, joy and other inspiring ingredients from a country that was quite literally, in my blood, with all the many years of my experience writing about beauty. La Pyae Apothecary is the result, capturing all the knowledge I’ve gleaned and the lessons I’ve learned, incorporating the latest in technology and well-crafted formulations, while also shining a light on a part of the world that is so beautiful, but often forgotten. La Pyae, pronounced “La Pea-yay” means “full moon” in Burmese, and happens to be the nick-name of one of my relatives.

And now here we are, with our first fragrance, created by the perfumer Frank Voelkl, and inspired by Myanmar.

We would love you to join us as we create magical, joyful, inspiring products that will instil joy as you go about your day.”

Kathleen Baird-Murray
Founder

We aren't able to produce or manufacture anything in Myanmar at the moment, but in time we hope to work with key crafts organisations to collaborate on special projects. 

We will be working with three charities: 

Prospect Burma, a charity Kathleen’s mother was involved with for many years, which works with marginalised young people in Myanmar, whose education and potential is being blocked by armed conflict. 

Medical Action Myanmar, aims to improve access to quality health care in Myanmar, targeting poor, marginalised and vulnerable people. 

Burma Skincare Initiative, brings together leading British and Burmese dermatologists to those in Myanmar in need of dedicated skincare expertise, via remote access, empowering communities and driving systemic improvements in healthcare delivery.