Skin care brand Skinfix has taken on a minority investment partner, Stride Consumer Partners, marking the first investment from the new private equity firm started by a former team from Castanea Partners. Stride’s stake in Skinfix looks to build on its commitment to partner with founders and women-led businesses.

Founded by Amy Gordinier in 2014, Skinfix has realized 300 percent growth over the prior year; its Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream is ranked the number-four best-selling moisturizer at Sephora North America based on retail dollar sales.

With the investment, Skinfix plans to amplify brand awareness to fuel growth both in DTC and at Sephora, its exclusive retailer. The company will also support ongoing product innovation and rigorous testing practices as well as build out its team.

“Skinfix was on our list of brands to watch from the start because of its unique and powerful positioning in the space of ‘cleanical’ skin care,” said Nicole Fourgoux, Stride operating partner. With a clear mission to improve skin barrier health and their addictive, clean and clinically performing formulas, the Skinfix team has built an amazing brand with great potential.”

“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the Stride team and benefit from their deep and varied experience building timeless brands,” said Amy Gordinier, Skinfix Founder and CEO. “As a white-space brand looking ahead to the future of science-led skincare innovation, we believe that Stride is the right partner to help us grow and realize the possibilities ahead.

“Joining forces with Skinfix is a perfect match for our mission at Stride,” said Steve Berg, Stride partner. “Amy is a dynamic, passionate founder joined by a talented team. They’re building the next great skincare brand and we’re honored to work alongside them.”

Nicole Fourgoux and Steve Berg will join the Skinfix board of directors.

Piper Sandler represented Skinfix in the transaction.