personal skin problems leads founder to launch skincare startup nøie, raises $12m series a

Nøie Secures $12 Million Series A Funding for Personalized Skincare
Driven by personal experiences with skin sensitivities, Daniel Jensen, a tech entrepreneur, identified a gap in the market. He envisioned a more effective approach to skincare and subsequently founded Nøie, a Copenhagen-based startup.
Developing a Skin Profile Database
Nøie utilizes a proprietary technology platform to maintain a comprehensive database of skin profiles. This allows the company to deliver more targeted care for individuals with sensitive skin.
Series A Funding Details
The startup has recently completed a $12 million Series A funding round. This round was spearheaded by Talis Capital, with contributions from Inventure and existing investors.
Notable Investors
Among the investors are Thomas Ryge Mikkelsen, previously the CMO of Pandora, and Kristian Schrøder Hart-Hansen, former CEO of LEO Pharma’s Innovation Lab.
Targeting Sensitive Skin Conditions
Nøie’s customized skincare solutions are designed to address a range of sensitive skin concerns. These include conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
The Nøie Approach to Product Selection
Through dedicated research and development, Nøie evaluates a vast number of skincare products currently available. The company then selects those deemed most effective and employs an algorithm to categorize customers into distinct “skin families.”
Based on this categorization, customers receive personalized product recommendations tailored to their individual skin needs.
Competitive Landscape
While Skin+Me is a recognized competitor, it operates as a prescription-based service. Nøie distinguishes itself by offering non-prescription skincare options.
Jensen's Vision for the Future of Skincare
Jensen stated his belief that the primary challenge lies in shifting consumer behavior within the broader skincare industry. He anticipates a future where the practice of selecting generic, off-the-shelf products will seem outdated.
He views emerging companies in the personalized skincare space as collaborators, all working towards a fundamental change in how individuals choose skincare.
The Shift Towards Personalization
Jensen emphasized that these companies collectively demonstrate the viability of receiving highly-personalized products based on specific skin requirements.
Personal Frustrations Sparked Innovation
Reflecting on his own difficulties in finding suitable skincare, Jensen noted the challenges of identifying effective solutions. He observed a disparity between technological advancements in other areas and the skincare industry.
He predicts that within the next five to ten years, consumers will find it remarkable that they once relied on random product selection without understanding their skin’s needs.
Talis Capital's Perspective
Beatrice Aliprandi, principal at Talis Capital, highlighted the outdated “one-size-fits-all” approach prevalent in both dermatology and the skincare industry.
Data-Driven Personalization
Aliprandi believes Nøie is pioneering a new era of skincare by leveraging a data-driven approach and incorporating community feedback. This enables the company to provide complete personalization at scale.
She views Nøie as a catalyst for the next revolution in skincare.
Mike Butcher
Mike Butcher: A Profile of a Leading Tech Voice
Mike Butcher, M.B.E., is a highly respected figure in the technology landscape. Previously serving as Editor-at-large for TechCrunch, his journalistic background includes contributions to prominent UK newspapers and magazines.
Recognition and Influence
Wired UK has recognized Butcher as one of the most influential individuals shaping European technology. This acknowledgement underscores his significant impact on the sector.
Speaking Engagements and Interviews
He is a frequent speaker at globally recognized events. These include the World Economic Forum, Web Summit, and DLD conferences.
Butcher’s interviewing experience is extensive and notable. He has engaged in conversations with prominent figures such as Tony Blair, Dmitry Medvedev, Kevin Spacey, Lily Cole, Pavel Durov, and Jimmy Wales.
Broadcasting and Advisory Roles
As a regular media commentator, Mike Butcher frequently appears on major news networks. These include BBC News, Sky News, CNBC, Channel 4, Al Jazeera, and Bloomberg.
His expertise is also sought by governmental bodies. He has provided advice to UK Prime Ministers and the Mayor of London regarding policies related to tech startups.
Additional Roles and Honors
Butcher has also served as a judge on the popular television show, The Apprentice UK.
GQ magazine once included him in their list of the 100 Most Connected Men in the UK, highlighting his extensive network.
Founding Initiatives
He is the co-founder of several impactful organizations:
- TheEuropas.com: A platform showcasing the top 100 European startups.
- Techfugees.com: A non-profit organization focused on supporting refugees through technology.
- TechVets.co: A non-profit dedicated to assisting veterans with technology skills and careers.
- Startup Coalition: An organization fostering collaboration within the startup ecosystem.
MBE Award
In 2016, Mike Butcher was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list. This honor recognized his contributions to both the UK technology industry and the field of journalism.