Pond's Cream was discovered in the United States as a patent medicine by pharmacist Theron T. Pond (1800–1852) of Utica, New York, in 1846. Mr. Pond extracted a healing tea from witch-hazel [Hamamelis spp.] which he discovered healed wounds. childhood and other ailments. The product was named "Golden Treasure". After Theron died, it would soon become known as "Pond's Extract".

In 1849, the T. T. Pond Company was formed with Pond and other investors. Soon after, he sold his share of the company due to failing health. He died in 1852. In 1914, the company was founded as the Pond's Extract Company.

The company then moved to Connecticut setting up a manufacturing center there. Then moved its sales office to New York City.

In 1886, Pond's began advertising nationally. They advertised under the name Pond's Healing until 1910.

In the twentieth century, the company's main emphasis was on selling cosmetic products. "Pond's Vanishing Cream" and "Pond's Cold Cream" were created, marking Pond's entry into the skincare industry. Today Pond's is sold worldwide. Its largest markets are in Spain and in Asia, including India, Japan and Thailand.