Unilever Ventures has acquired a minority stake in microbiome beauty brand Gallinée. The first personal care brand to focus exclusively on the growing science of the human bacterial ecosystem, a major revolution in health, and a new field of research in dermatology for the treatment of acne and eczema. The investment is Unilever Ventures’ inaugural foray into microbiome- based products, a key beauty trend in 2018.

Launched in 2016 by Marie Drago, a French pharmacist with 15 years’ experience working for successful skincare brands, the brand was inspired by her history with autoimmune diseases and her desire to create products that support the skin’s good bacteria. Drago’s pharmacy thesis was the basis for the patented combination of probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics that are the core of the Gallinée range.

Designed with sensitive skin in mind – and now tested successfully for atopy-prone skin – the brand has been stocked since April 2016 in Harvey Nichols, and is now available in department stores and pharmacies in France and the UK, as well as online. 

Investment from Unilever Ventures, along with other strategic partners, will be used to develop the team, extend the range and finance R&D. Gallinée plans to double-down on e-commerce, hire an experienced Head of E-Commerce and expand its global direct retail operation.