Skincare brand CHOSEN has successfully raised US$5 million in its Series A funding round, marking a significant milestone for the science-focused company. The investment was led by Fireside Ventures and saw participation from prominent backers including BOLD, L’Oréal’s venture capital fund, and Alkemi Growth Capital. This infusion of capital is set to accelerate the brand's mission to deliver dermatologist-developed skincare solutions specifically tailored for the Indian population.
Strategic Investment for Science-Led Skincare
The funding round attracted a diverse group of supporters, reflecting strong confidence in CHOSEN's unique market position. Angel investors included CaratLane co-founder Avnish Anand and a collective of esteemed dermatologists such as Dr. Chandan Asokan and Dr. KC Nischal. This strategic backing from both venture capital and medical professionals underscores the brand's credibility and growth potential in the competitive skincare industry.
Varun Varma of Fireside Ventures highlighted the brand's rare combination of deep clinical rigor and a trust-led go-to-market strategy. He noted that CHOSEN is recommended by doctors and has built a loyal consumer base through its effective, evidence-based products. This validation from a leading investor points to the growing demand for clinically backed dermocosmetics that deliver tangible results for consumers.
A Dermatological Approach to Indian Skin
Founded in 2020 by cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Renita Rajan, CHOSEN was established to address a critical gap in the personal care market. The brand's philosophy is rooted in creating products specifically for melanin-rich Indian skin, considering the unique environmental and lifestyle factors known as the exposome. This specialized focus distinguishes CHOSEN from brands that follow global trends not always suited for local dermatological needs.
Dr. Rajan emphasized that the company is closing the gap where personal care has been shaped by circumstances that are not native to India. CHOSEN represents dermatology stepping up to provide solutions built for the Indian genome and its specific environmental exposures. This science-led, dermatologist-developed approach aims to set a new standard for holistic anti-aging and skincare solutions within the country.
Expanding Research and Product Development
The fresh capital will be strategically deployed to enhance the company's research and development capabilities and expand its product pipeline. CHOSEN plans to bring more dermatologists into the product development process, further strengthening its scientific foundation. Additionally, the funds will support hiring across key functions as the company scales its product and clinical infrastructure for future growth.
The company's product portfolio targets four primary signs of aging: pigmentation, uneven skin texture, loss of facial contour, and hair aging. Its offerings include both topical formulations and nutraceuticals, with flagship products like the SAFESCREEN NEXGEN sunscreen gaining significant traction. This targeted approach ensures that CHOSEN provides comprehensive solutions for the most common concerns among Indian consumers.
A Unique Clinic-to-Consumer Model
CHOSEN operates on an innovative clinic-to-consumer model that ensures product efficacy and builds trust with its customer base. All products are first developed and utilized within clinical settings by dermatologists before being made available directly to the public. This rigorous validation process guarantees that every item meets high standards of safety and performance before reaching the broader market.
Currently, the brand offers approximately 58 products, encompassing both prescription-based items and over-the-counter solutions for consumers. These products are distributed through a network of more than 2,000 clinics across India, demonstrating a strong professional endorsement. The company also maintains a robust online presence, primarily selling through its own website to directly engage with its customers.
This US$5 million investment serves as a powerful validation of CHOSEN's evidence-based approach and its commitment to specialized skincare. With the backing of prominent investors, the company is well-positioned to deepen its research, expand its reach, and solidify its leadership in the Indian dermocosmetics market. Ultimately, this strategic funding will empower CHOSEN to continue setting a new bar for scientifically grounded skincare in India.