ClayCo Cosmetics, a premium skincare brand, has raised $2 million in its Series A funding round from Unilever Ventures, marking its first external investment.
The funds will be used for portfolio’s expansion, to strengthen its branding and promotion efforts, drive recruitment, and support working capital needs.
The investment will also be used to scale its operations and launch new products, including a Moroccan-inspired body care range. The funds will also be used to bolster marketing campaigns, expand customer engagement, and drive research and innovation.
Speaking on the investment, Niharika Jhunjhunwala, Founder of ClayCo Cosmetics said, “We are thrilled to partner with Unilever Ventures, a pioneer in the beauty industry. Their support aligns perfectly with our long-term goals. This funding will enable us to enhance brand awareness, introduce new products, invest in R&D, and fuel our growth. As consumers become more aware of global ingredients like fermented rice, ginseng, and CICA, they are willing to invest in high-quality, efficacious skincare.”
“Unilever Ventures is pleased to support Clayco in their mission to elevate India’s beauty landscape by introducing global beauty rituals that celebrate individuality and innovation,” said Pawan Chaturvedi, Partner-Asia, Unilever Ventures.
Founded by entrepreneur Niharika Jhunjhunwala, ClayCo was launched to combine time-honored global beauty traditions with cutting-edge skincare technology. The brand’s debut collection Rituals of Japan, draws inspiration from traditional Japanese beauty practices. The collection, which includes cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and essences, marries ancient ingredients like rice, sake, and azuki beans with modern innovations to create a comprehensive skincare range that embodies simplicity, minimalism, and effectiveness.
One of ClayCo’s flagship products, the Rice and Sake Sleep Mask, has become the bestselling night cream on platforms such as Amazon, Nykaa, and Tira. With over 100,000 units sold, this product’s popularity underscores the growing global appeal of Japanese-inspired skincare rituals.
