L’Oréal has confirmed the acquisition of a majority stake in British clinical skincare brand Medik8, marking a strategic expansion of its dermocosmetics portfolio.
Known for its vitamin A-based products, particularly the hero Crystal Retinal line, Medik8 will now sit within L’Oréal’s Luxe Division, alongside premium skincare names including Skinceuticals.
The deal, which follows months of industry speculation, is expected to complete in the coming months, pending regulatory approvals. Financial details have not been disclosed.
Medik8 joins L’Oréal Luxe Division to scale globally
Founded in 2009 by scientist Elliot Isaacs, Medik8 has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing professional skincare brands, with global revenues forecast to reach around $115 million in 2024. The brand also reported a 50% increase in sales this year.
“We are delighted to welcome Medik8 to the L’Oréal family,” said Cyril Chapuy, president of L’Oréal Luxe. “As a premium skin care range, with high levels of proven efficacy at an accessible price point, Medik8 perfectly complements our existing skincare portfolio.
“We share a strong belief in Medik8's global potential and are excited to embark on this journey together to build a powerful and impactful brand presence worldwide.”
As part of the agreement, founder Elliot Isaacs will remain on the board, and Medik8’s current senior leadership team will stay in place to ensure continuity.
Private equity firm Inflexion, which has backed Medik8 since 2021, will retain a minority stake for now. L’Oréal has also secured the right to buy out remaining shares in the future.
Retinal innovation and science-led skincare appeal to L’Oréal
Medik8 has earned a loyal following among skincare professionals and aesthetic clinics, largely thanks to its formulations featuring retinal (retinaldehyde) – a vitamin A derivative that’s known to deliver visible results with lower irritation risk than traditional retinol.
The B Corp-certified brand operates a multi-channel business model across Europe, Australia and the US, and is known for its ethical focus on sustainability, science and efficacy.
“Medik8 was born to prove that skin care can deliver results without compromise – rooted in science, obsessed with customer experience and driven by sustainability,” said founder Elliot Isaacs.
“I am delighted that Medik8 has now found its long-term home at L’Oréal – a partner that fundamentally embraces our vision and gives us the platform to deliver it on a truly global scale.”
The move is expected to accelerate Medik8’s international growth and expand its footprint in the professional skincare and retinoid treatments space.
“This is an exciting day for Medik8,” added Simon Coble, chief executive of Medik8. “I am delighted to be joining forces with a company which shares our vision for the brand’s future growth and whose core values align with our deep commitment to science, innovation and, above all, results without compromise.
“I look forward to the next stage in Medik8’s journey as we work together to bring our innovative products to a wider audience.”
Once the deal is finalised, L’Oréal will begin consolidating Medik8’s sales, further bolstering its global reach in clinical and professional skincare categories.
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