CHOSEN, a skincare brand focused on melanin-rich Indian skin, has raised an extension of its Series A funding round from Avnish Chhabria and Saurabh Kapoor, founders of Wellbeing Nutrition. The fresh investment will support the company’s research and development (R&D) initiatives, product innovation and expansion plans as it looks to strengthen its position in the skincare market.
The latest funding follows CHOSEN’s $5 million Series A round in May 2026, led by Fireside Ventures, with participation from BOLD, L’Oréal’s corporate venture capital fund, Alkemi Growth Capital and other angel investors. The company had previously raised $1.2 million in an angel funding round in 2024.
According to the company, the new capital will be directed towards strengthening its R&D infrastructure and expanding its formulation pipeline across topical skincare and nutraceuticals, with an emphasis on clinical validation and dermatological research.
Focus on Research-Led Skincare for Indian Skin
Founded in 2020 by Renita Rajan, CHOSEN develops skincare products designed for melanin-rich Indian skin. Its product development approach draws on the science of the exposome, which examines how environmental exposures influence skin health and ageing.
The company focuses on four areas associated with ageing: pigmentation, skin texture, facial contour and hair ageing. Through its research-led approach, CHOSEN aims to develop formulations that address these concerns while building a stronger scientific foundation for its products.
The latest investment is expected to help the brand deepen its research capabilities and expand its product development pipeline, particularly across skincare formulations and nutraceuticals.
Plans to Establish a Centre of Excellence
As part of its next phase of growth, CHOSEN plans to establish a Centre of Excellence to bring dermatologists into its product development and research processes. The initiative is intended to strengthen collaboration between scientific research and formulation development.
The company also plans to expand its R&D, brand and growth teams to support its evolving product portfolio and business expansion.
The increased emphasis on clinical validation and dermatological research comes as skincare companies face growing consumer interest in evidence-based formulations and products designed for specific skin concerns.
Portfolio Spans More Than 50 Products
CHOSEN’s portfolio includes more than 50 products across skincare, haircare, body care and nutraceuticals. The company says its products are prescribed by more than 2,000 doctors, reflecting its engagement with the medical and dermatological community.
In 2026, the brand introduced CHOSEN Sculpt, which the company describes as India’s first topical lower-face contouring serum. The product is backed by a 12-week clinical study involving Indian women, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, according to the information provided by the company.
The product highlights CHOSEN’s focus on developing targeted formulations supported by clinical research, particularly for concerns relevant to its intended consumer base.
Expanding Digital and Retail Distribution
CHOSEN sells its products through its own website and third-party platforms, including Amazon, Myntra, Swiggy, FirstClub and Distacart.
The company serves most serviceable PIN codes in India, with Chennai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Pune, Ahmedabad and Goa identified as priority markets.
Beyond India, CHOSEN ships to several international markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Hong Kong and Thailand.
Its distribution footprint provides the brand with access to domestic and overseas customers as it continues to develop its product portfolio and strengthen its market presence.
Competing in a Crowded Skincare Market
CHOSEN operates in a competitive skincare market that includes established brands such as Avène, Heliocare, Cetaphil, Sebamed, Shiseido and Dr. Sturm.
Against this backdrop, the company is positioning its portfolio around formulations designed for melanin-rich Indian skin, alongside an emphasis on dermatological research and clinical validation.
The planned Centre of Excellence and expanded R&D capabilities are expected to support this positioning as the brand develops new products across skincare and nutraceuticals.
Building the Next Phase of Growth
With the latest Series A extension, CHOSEN is looking to strengthen the scientific and operational capabilities underpinning its product development strategy. The funding follows its earlier institutional investment and angel round, providing further capital for research, formulation development and team expansion.
As the company moves into its next phase, its ability to translate dermatological research into clinically supported products, while expanding distribution across India and international markets, will be important to its growth strategy.
By : Vanshika Tayal
