Medical aesthetic products. AS Beauty diversifies into skin care with acquisition of Bliss

THE WHAT? AS Beauty has announced that it has acquired skin care brand, Bliss from L Catterton. The purchase is AS Beauty’s fifth acquisition since 2019 and its first foray into the skin care market.

THE DETAILS Terms of the deal were not disclosed but WWD pegs the brand’s revenue at more than US$40 million.

“It is very exciting for the Bliss brand to enter its next chapter of growth with AS Beauty, their operational excellence, and strong digital expertise will accelerate the brand growth and mission of making the Bliss brand accessible to all,” says Meri Baregamian, CEO of Bliss.

THE WHY? Ralph Azrak, Chief Operating Officer of AS Beauty, explains, “The acquisition of Bliss marks the next phase of growth for AS Beauty. Our approach to business development has allowed us to find exponential success in growing brands in the mass and traditional beauty space, and we are excited to use our resources and strategies to break into the skincare category and take this business to even greater heights.”

Medical aesthetic products refer to a category of products used in the field of medical aesthetics, which combines medical practices with cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of individuals. These products are typically used under the supervision of trained medical professionals such as dermatologists, plastic surgeons, or specialized nurses. They are distinct from over-the-counter cosmetics in that they often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or require medical expertise for their application.

Examples of medical aesthetic products include:

• Dermal Fillers: Injectable substances used to restore volume, fill wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. These may include hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm or collagen-stimulating fillers like Sculptra.

• Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Injectable neurotoxins used to temporarily paralyze facial muscles, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines caused by facial expressions.

• Chemical Peels: Solutions containing chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid, used to improve skin texture, treat acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

• Laser and Light Devices: Equipment used for various skin treatments, including hair removal, skin resurfacing, tattoo removal, and treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

• Prescription Skincare Products: Formulations containing active ingredients such as retinoids (e.g., tretinoin), hydroquinone, or prescription-strength antioxidants, designed to address specific dermatological concerns under medical supervision.

• Microneedling Devices: Devices that create tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture and elasticity.

• Cosmeceuticals: High-quality skincare products that bridge the gap between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, often containing biologically active ingredients with proven efficacy.