6th June 2024, National, Chennai-based skincare startup CHOSEN® has successfully raised $1.2 million in a seed funding round from friends and family. This funding follows an equity-free grant of $100,000 from Peak XV Partners as part of the SPARK program for women entrepreneurs.
Founded by cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Renita Rajan, CHOSEN® focuses on developing innovative skincare products through patents and cutting-edge formulations while expanding into IoT-led skincare solutions. Now in its fourth year, CHOSEN® plans to utilize the funds to grow its headcount and enhance its supply chain capabilities.
“This seed round provides us with the flexibility to strategically expand our operations and explore new areas for growth. Our next step is to explore partnerships with B2B sectors such as hospitality, health, travel, and leisure to expand our distribution channels. Our goal is to secure pre-series funding of $10 to $20 million later this year,” said Dr. Renita Rajan, Founder of CHOSEN®.
Earlier this year, CHOSEN® was featured in Peak XV’s cohort of women-led startups, marking a significant milestone with the $100,000 grant. Over the past 4 years, CHOSEN® has developed a multi-channel ecosystem of highly active cosmetic products tailored for Indian skin types. CHOSEN® currently offers 34 SKUs, with 12 more in the pipeline and additional products slated for launch within the next 18 months.
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With an LED mask design patent and four additional patents in progress, CHOSEN® recently launched SAFESCREEN® TINTENSE™ Tinted Sunscreen Lotion, an outstanding tinted sunscreen featuring India’s first-ever combination of non-nano zinc, non-nano titanium, and non-nano iron oxide. This made-for-India, pregnancy, nursing, and reef-safe sunscreen offers high-level protection against HEVL, UV, and IR rays while providing flawless coverage, containing up to 93.04% natural, biodegradable content. Additionally, there are several ongoing innovative projects, including a melanin lab and IoT-driven personalized skincare technology.
“At CHOSEN®, we are committed to creating long-term, safe, and effective wellness solutions. Our products are designed to provide lasting benefits, reflecting our dedication to quality and innovation,” Dr. Renita Rajan added.
With a headcount of 130 and plans for further recruitment, CHOSEN® is poised for significant growth, projecting a 2x increase in scale this fiscal year.
About CHOSEN®
CHOSEN® is a pioneering beauty and wellness brand in India, deeply rooted in dermatological expertise and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Their products, carefully formulated with high-quality ingredients and validated by scientific research, are designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals of all ages and skin types. Embracing inclusivity, CHOSEN® offers safe formulations, including specialized lines tailored for pregnant and nursing mothers, ensuring that everyone can indulge in self-care without compromise. Sustainability is the core ethos, reflected in their eco-friendly packaging and emphasis on natural, biodegradable ingredients. Through vibrant social media engagement, educational events, and strategic partnerships with experts, CHOSEN® fosters a sense of belonging and support within its community. By prioritizing customer relationships and community building, CHOSEN® not only enhances its brand reputation but also ensures that every individual feels valued and empowered on their journey towards beauty and wellness.
