US prescription skincare firm Curology secures $15m in Series B funding

US-based dermatologist-founded company Curology has been successful in securing a $15m Series B financing, which will help enhance its direct-to-consumer prescription skincare business.

Expected to be used to hire visual designers and marketing experts and expand operations, the financing round was led by Advance Vixeid Partners, with support from prior investors Sherpa Capital and Forerunner Ventures.

Curology founder and CEO Dr David Lortscher said: "This funding will accelerate Curology's mission to provide effective and affordable acne and anti-ageing treatments to people across the country.

"Our business has grown five times in the past year; the capital raised will allow us to serve even more consumers frustrated by the skincare options available in the market today."

Curology provides online customised prescription skincare for acne and anti-ageing treatments through a visual diagnosis.

In order to quickly prescribe treatments, Curology allows its users to upload a photo of their skin condition using the company’s platform.

The condition is then evaluated by Curology’s licensed medical professionals, and a treatment schedule or medication is prescribed to customers.

The personalised product is also sent directly to the customer on a recurring basis.

Dr Lortscher added: "In the US, there is only one dermatologist for every 36,000 people, and most are concentrated in major metro areas, meaning access to specialists is limited. As a result, many consumers settle for inadequate over-the-counter remedies.

"With Curology, they get one-on-one dermatology care and personalised, prescription strength treatment for just $20 per month."