Cosmetic
Skincare Product
Season 3 Episode 1
| Brand | Conscious Chemist |
| Company Name | ERA BOTANICS PRIVATE LIMITED |
| Founders | Robin Gupta, Prakher Mathur |
| Original Ask | 60 lakhs for 2% equity at the valuation of Rs. 30 crores |
| Deal | No Deal |
About the Product
Tailored for diverse skin types, they offer a range addressing conditions such as pigmentation, dryness, aging, and stretch marks. Formulated with potent ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, urea, lactic acid, and vitamin C, their products showcase a commitment to effective skincare.
The 2% Salicylic Acid Serum serves as a potent acne treatment, featuring 0.5% Zinc PCA and Willow Bark Extract. For correcting pigmentation and dark spots, the 5% Niacinamide Serum incorporates Tranexamic Acid and Alpha Arbutin. The Hybrid SPF 50 PA++++ Sun Drink™️ stands out as a water-resistant sunscreen enriched with ceramides for a comprehensive sun protection experience.
Each product is backed by clinical proof and thorough testing, assuring efficacy and safety. Available on their website and various online marketplaces, these offerings cater to individuals seeking advanced, science-backed solutions for their skincare concerns.
Founders & their story
- Robin Gupta
- Prakher Mathur
Chemicals are ubiquitous, but the founders, Robin (from Alwar) and Prakher (from Jaipur), see life as a chemistry, believing in the effectiveness of science-backed solutions. The brand, with over 3 lakh customers, is an innovative, high-quality, and beginner-friendly skincare solution addressing the concerns of over 80% of Indians.
Operating on D2C platforms like our website, Amazon, Flipkart, and Nykaa, their portfolio boasts 29 SKUs, each formulated through 40-50 iterations by independent R&D experts. From acne to pigmentation to aging, their products cater to diverse skin problems. With fun and trustworthy packaging, coupled with products free of chemical odors, sets them apart.
Prakher oversees D2C marketplaces and marketing, while Robin handles products and investor relations. With a successful funding round in September 2021 raising 3 crores at a pre-money valuation of 9 crores and an additional 76 lakhs in September 2023, we currently have 65-70 lakhs in the bank, ensuring a runway of 7-8 months. The next steps involve scaling our winning products, expanding market share, and venturing into offline and B2B partnerships.
About the company:
An innovative clean beauty brand, they provide functional and effective products that go beyond being an alternative, positioning themselves as a fundamental choice for today’s conscious consumers. By integrating the best of nature and science, they craft a range of intelligent, biocompatible skincare items.
Their mission centers on creating products that ensure safety for both skin and the environment. They prioritize truth over pseudo-science, staying attuned to the beauty community’s preferences, thoughts, and future trends. The brand views self-care not merely as indulgence but as a profound act of reverence, placing functionality at the heart of their vision and product offerings. Guided by a sense of consciousness and civic responsibility, the brand actively offsets plastic usage within their supply chain. Additionally, a portion of their sales contributes to Reef Watch India, underscoring their commitment to preserving marine ecosystems.
Revenue:
As of August 23, the net revenue stands at 65 lakh rupees. For the fiscal year 2022-23, net sales amounted to 4.5 crores, marking a breakeven point. Projected sales for the fiscal year 2023-24 are expected to reach 9 crores, although profitability may not be achieved this year. Despite this, there is a notable improvement in gross margins, with a focus on optimizing marketing costs. The strategic effort is being made to establish offline partnerships as part of the business expansion plan.
Founders’ Ask
60 lakhs for 2% equity at the valuation of Rs. 30 crores.
No Deal
Reasons for no deal:
Namita: Founders seemed confused about future. The scale of the business is not enough to support the future steps.
Vineeta: Distribution strategy is not proper. Opportunity is online and the business has to grow online.
Amit: Proof of product being good is not found in numbers. Lack of brand love.
Aman: Lack of super salesman to sell the products more.
Anupam: Best product does not always win. Strategy is not differentiating.