CHOSEN raises $5M in Series A led by Fireside Ventures, L’Oréal’s BOLD

Bengaluru-based skincare startup CHOSEN has raised $5 million in a Series A funding round led by Fireside Ventures, with participation from BOLD, the investment arm of L’Oréal, and Alkemi Growth Capital.

The round also saw backing from angel investor Avnish Anand and a group of dermatologists, including Dr Chandan Asokan, Dr KC Nischal, Dr Punit Saraogi, Dr Nishita Ranka, and Dr Mikki Singh.

Founded in 2020 by cosmetic dermatologist Dr Renita Rajan, CHOSEN focuses on science-led skincare tailored for melanin-rich Indian skin, drawing on the concept of the exposome—the environmental and lifestyle factors that influence skin health. The company operates a clinic-to-consumer model, combining dermatology-led product development with direct consumer distribution.

The fresh capital will be used to deepen research and development capabilities, expand its pipeline of clinically validated products, and scale its dermatologist-led Centre of Excellence. The company also plans to hire across functions as it builds out its product and clinical infrastructure.

CHOSEN’s portfolio spans topical formulations and nutraceuticals, targeting key skin concerns such as pigmentation, texture, contour, and hair aging. Its flagship offerings include the SAFESCREEN NEXGEN sunscreen and the CHOSEN Sculpt protocol, a topical contour system designed for Indian consumers.

“Personal care in India has largely followed global trends that don’t fully reflect local conditions,” said Rajan. “We are building products grounded in the Indian exposome and genome, with dermatology at the core.”

Investors are betting on the growing demand for clinically backed skincare in India, where dermocosmetics, products positioned between pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, are gaining traction. Fireside Ventures said CHOSEN’s combination of clinical rigor and repeat consumer adoption stood out, while BOLD highlighted its embedded dermatologist network and science-first approach.