Most people probably don’t recognize the name Ivan Combe—but they definitely know the products he created.
Born in Fremont, Iowa, Combe is the man behind personal care staples like Clearasil, Odor-Eaters, and Just For Men. He’s often credited as a pioneer in the self-medication industry, building an empire around everyday problems and smart marketing.
Combe grew up the son of a small-town doctor and eventually made his way to Northwestern University in Illinois, where he earned degrees in both undergraduate studies and law. He was already showing signs of sharp business instincts in college, managing the student newspaper, playing trombone in the marching band, and even lettering in tennis.
After stints in advertising and pharmaceuticals, Combe founded his own company—Combe Incorporated—in 1948. Not long after, he partnered with a chemist to create Clearasil, one of the first over-the-counter acne medications. What really set it apart? Combe’s decision to advertise on American Bandstand, reaching teens right where they were. It worked. The product took off and eventually sold to Vick Chemical in 1960.
That was just the beginning. Combe had a knack for taking niche ideas and turning them into household names. He kept building on that success with products like Odor-Eaters for foot odor and Just For Men hair color.
Combe passed away in January 2000 at the age of 88
