Boost Lab

Boost Lab is a direct-to-consumer skincare company based in Sydney, Australia, that has carved out a niche in the beauty market by simplifying the consumer experience. Founded in 2019 by the husband-and-wife team Craig and Lisa Schweighoffer, the company was born from Lisa's frustration with the overly complex and expensive nature of the skincare industry. Craig Schweighoffer, a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in science and brand building, has a history of developing successful ventures, including Skin Physics, ECOYA, and Trilogy. His experience was pivotal in shaping Boost Lab’s mission to provide targeted, high-quality serums at an accessible price point.

The company's business model centers on a focused product line of single-purpose serums, making it easy for customers to select products based on their specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, blemishes, or dryness. This strategy directly addresses the confusion many consumers feel when faced with complex chemical names and extensive product ranges. Revenue is generated through a multi-channel approach, combining direct online sales via its own website with strategic retail partnerships with pharmacies and beauty e-tailers like Priceline, TerryWhite Chemmart, and Adore Beauty. Initially launched as a digital-first brand due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Boost Lab has since expanded into over 2,000 retail locations across Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia.

In April 2023, Boost Lab merged with another Australian startup, TBH Skincare, to form a new holding company called York Street Brands. This strategic move, supported by a $3.3 million Series B funding round led by Alium Capital, brought Boost Lab's total funds raised to approximately $5.3 million. Craig Schweighoffer was appointed CEO of the new entity. The merger was designed to leverage the complementary strengths of both companies—Boost Lab’s expertise in retail and product innovation and TBH Skincare's proficiency in direct-to-consumer digital marketing—to accelerate growth and international expansion.

Boost Lab’s product portfolio consists of a curated range of serums formulated in Australia, each targeting a specific issue with a balance of active and natural ingredients. Products like the Retinol Night Renewal Serum and the 2D-Hyaluronic Hydro Boost Serum are designed to be easily integrated into any existing skincare routine. The company emphasizes transparency and demystifies skincare for its primary target audience of women over 40. A unique feature is the AI-powered Skin Advisor on their website, which offers personalized product recommendations based on a user's selfie, enhancing customer engagement and providing immediate value. Keywords: skincare serums, direct-to-consumer beauty, Australian skincare, affordable skincare, single-focus serums, Craig Schweighoffer, York Street Brands, beauty e-commerce, retail partnerships, anti-ageing, skin health, vitamin c serum, hyaluronic acid serum, retinol serum, blemish control, beauty technology, digital-first brand, skincare for women, TBH Skincare, Alium Capital