Background
Element Eight, established in 2022, is a premium skincare brand that integrates advanced biomedicine into skincare through its proprietary OATH™: Oxygen Amplified Therapy. This technology is designed to deliver 20 times more oxygen directly to skin cells, penetrating up to 700 microns deep, thereby addressing signs of aging associated with oxygen depletion. The company's mission is to redefine the anti-aging skincare market by leveraging biotechnological innovations to enhance skin health and vitality. Element Eight's products are developed by a multidisciplinary team of spine surgeons, biomaterial engineers, dermatologists, and clinical researchers, collectively holding 16 MD-PhDs and over 120 medical patents.
Key Strategic Focus
Element Eight's strategic focus centers on delivering high-performance, oxygen-infused skincare solutions that address the biological functions of the skin to combat aging. The company specializes in the luxury skincare segment, targeting consumers seeking scientifically-backed, effective anti-aging products. By utilizing its proprietary OATH™ technology, Element Eight aims to penetrate the rapidly growing global luxury skincare market, which was estimated at $21.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $35.8 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 8.64%.
Financials and Funding
As of November 2023, Element Eight has raised a total of $7.9 million in funding. The company closed a $6 million SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) round, comprising $2.5 million from existing investors and $3.5 million from new investors, including surgeons, dermatologists, PhD scientists, and private family offices with experience in beauty investing. Following this, Element Eight initiated a $6.25 million Series A round to further accelerate the growth of its potent skincare products.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Element Eight's proprietary OATH™: Oxygen Amplified Therapy technology is a cornerstone of its innovation. This technology mimics the function of hemoglobin, delivering 20 times more oxygen directly to skin cells up to 700 microns deep. Developed over a decade by a team of experts, OATH™ addresses the key signs of aging caused by oxygen depletion in the skin. The company's products are formulated without parabens, GMOs, PEGs, sulfates, phthalates, formaldehyde, and other harmful substances, aligning with its commitment to clean science. Element Eight's offerings are 100% vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free, with environmentally conscious packaging that is recyclable and FSC certified.
Leadership Team
- Gerard Camme: Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Board Member. Gerard brings extensive experience in the luxury beauty industry, having held senior roles at leading brands.
- Andy Carter: Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer. Andy has a background in biomaterial engineering and has been instrumental in developing the OATH™ technology.
- Bradley Patt, Ph.D.: Co-Founder and Chairman. Bradley has a rich history in biomedical innovation and has contributed significantly to the company's strategic direction.
- Jake Galtere: Chief Marketing Officer. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing strategies across the luxury market, Jake previously served as Vice President of Marketing for Ralph Lauren and Azzaro Fragrances. He has also held positions at Lancôme, YSL Beauté, and Mugler.
- Kristi McCluer: Vice President of Global Sales and Education. Kristi brings over 15 years of experience in luxury sales, having worked in the L'Oréal Luxury Division, where she was responsible for omni-channel retailer business development and strategy. She holds an Executive Certificate in Digital Marketing Analytics from MIT.
Leadership Changes
In November 2023, Element Eight announced the appointments of Jake Galtere as Chief Marketing Officer and Kristi McCluer as Vice President of Global Sales and Education. These strategic additions aim to drive the brand's global strategy and oversee continued expansion.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The global luxury skincare market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for high-performance, scientifically-backed products. As of 2022, the market was valued at $21.8 billion and is projected to reach $35.8 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 8.64%.
Competitor Analysis
Element Eight operates in a competitive landscape alongside other luxury skincare brands that emphasize scientific innovation. Notable competitors include:
- Augustinus Bader: A London-based company known for its science-driven skincare products, focusing on cellular renewal and healing.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Element Eight has joined Ohana & Co.'s incubation platform, which supports emerging brands in scaling their operations and market reach. Additionally, Martin Brok, a seasoned global executive with experience at Sephora, Nike, Starbucks, and The Coca-Cola Company, has joined the company's Business Advisory Board and is participating in the Series A financing.
Operational Insights
Element Eight differentiates itself through its unique OATH™ technology, which leverages biomedical advancements to deliver oxygen directly to skin cells, addressing the root causes of aging. This scientific approach, combined with a commitment to clean and sustainable formulations, positions the company favorably in the luxury skincare market.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Element Eight plans to continue innovating within the skincare industry by developing new products that leverage its OATH™ technology.
