MassChallenge

Sóliome is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2021. The company specializes in the development of protein-based sunscreens designed to be safe for both human use and the environment. Sóliome's innovative products aim to reduce the absorption of harmful chemicals found in traditional sunscreens, which can contribute to skin inflammation and ecological damage. By focusing on skin protection from harmful rays while minimizing environmental impact, Sóliome addresses growing concerns about both personal health and sustainability in skincare.

KerlyGirl is a B2C startup offering an e-commerce site selling hair masks, curl creams, and serums. Its products are specifically catered to people with Type 3 and 4 hair — the very tightest coils — and are all plant-based and COSMOS-certified organic.

Kura Skin is a skincare matchmaking platform. We use data and our proprietary matchmaking algorithm to help our customers cut through the clutter and find what works for a fraction of the cost and none of the hassle.

Hue Beauty is a beauty technology and sampling platform designed to assist beauty shoppers in identifying makeup products that complement their unique skin tones. The platform integrates with beauty brands' e-commerce websites, utilizing photo technology and a community of beauty advisors to facilitate accurate shade matching. Additionally, Hue Beauty offers customized try-at-home shade sampling kits, enhancing the shopping experience. The company also develops shoppable video technology, allowing online beauty brands to incorporate user-generated videos into their marketing strategies. This approach fosters customer trust and engagement by providing authentic content. Moreover, Hue Beauty employs an artificial intelligence-powered recommendation engine to analyze shoppers' skin tones, types, and beauty preferences, enabling clients to generate genuine reviews in various formats.

Nul is a not-just-for-profit company with the mission to make the personal and household care industry more sustainable by offering eco-friendly alternatives that actually work. No water. No plastic. No toxins. No nonsense. Nul believe in giving back; pledging 1% of all sales to environmental charities as a member of 1% for the Planet.

React4life is an Italian biotech company established in 2016 by Silvia Scaglione and Maurizio Aiello, following over 15 years of research and development. The company focuses on advancing biomedical research through its innovative MIVO® (Multi In Vitro Organ) technology, which represents the next generation of organ-on-a-chip systems. This microphysiological platform allows scientists to replicate human biology in the laboratory more accurately, addressing the limitations of traditional in vitro assays and animal models. React4life's technology enhances the reliability and predictivity of various applications, including pharmaceutical drug testing, personalized medicine, immuno-oncology therapies, cosmetics, dermatology, and nutraceuticals. The company aims to improve laboratory testing effectiveness while reducing reliance on animal testing, facilitating the cultivation of three-dimensional tissues that closely resemble human tissues for more clinically relevant in vitro experiments.

Naturbeads Ltd., established in 2018 and headquartered in Malmesbury, UK, specializes in manufacturing biodegradable cellulose microparticles. These products aim to replace conventional plastic microbeads used in cosmetics, toiletries, and other industries. The company's mission is to mitigate microplastic pollution by offering a sustainable alternative developed through innovative research at the University of Bath.

Enzymit is a biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing global manufacturing through sustainable and efficient bio-production methods. It specializes in developing cell-free bio-production technology that aims to eliminate the inefficiencies and complexities associated with traditional bio-production. Enzymit employs artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to design novel enzymes, which serve as molecular machines capable of transforming abundant feedstocks into valuable products, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. The company’s small, modular bio-reactors facilitate this process, promoting resource independence while minimizing environmental impact. By moving away from conventional whole-cell methods to utilizing nature's elemental building blocks, Enzymit enhances cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability in bio-production, while also providing greater flexibility in product customization for various industries.

Renzoe Box is a beauty platform that integrates hardware and software to optimize personal makeup collections. The company specializes in the design and manufacturing of a makeup storage and pod system that accommodates various makeup products in a single, compact box. This innovative system allows users to customize their makeup palettes and organize their beauty accessories efficiently. By providing a streamlined solution for makeup storage, Renzoe Box enhances the convenience and portability of personal beauty collections, making it easier for individuals to manage and carry their essential makeup items.

Rayito de Luna is a Mexican company that develops beauty and personal care products for women and men. It is an eco-friendly 100% natural personal care brand, that practices fair trade and supports the development of local independent producers.

HanaBi wants to offer these customers a ready-to-go solution to penetrate the in-wash fabric solid scent booster market, and to their consumers better product to fulfill their long-lasting fragrance expectations.

Upwell’s is a cosmetic industry provides patented algae wax with safe ingredients.

Enzymit is a biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing global manufacturing through sustainable and efficient bio-production methods. It specializes in developing cell-free bio-production technology that aims to eliminate the inefficiencies and complexities associated with traditional bio-production. Enzymit employs artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to design novel enzymes, which serve as molecular machines capable of transforming abundant feedstocks into valuable products, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and materials. The company’s small, modular bio-reactors facilitate this process, promoting resource independence while minimizing environmental impact. By moving away from conventional whole-cell methods to utilizing nature's elemental building blocks, Enzymit enhances cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability in bio-production, while also providing greater flexibility in product customization for various industries.

Abeja Reyna is a company specializing in the online production and marketing of honey products, focusing on natural beauty care solutions. The company utilizes the beneficial properties of honey, creating products that are rich in nutrients and devoid of harmful additives such as parabens. Abeja Reyna's offerings are recognized for their moisturizing, antibacterial, and antioxidant qualities, catering to consumers seeking sustainably produced and organically made items. Through its commitment to quality and natural ingredients, Abeja Reyna aims to promote the advantages of honey in both personal care and wellness.

Bellezacheck is the 'Tripadvisor' of beauty product and that provides consumer reviews&ratings on website.

ZeoVation Inc. is a manufacturer based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in nanozeolites and hierarchical zeolites. Founded in 2016, the company focuses on enhancing consumer products across various sectors, including skincare, home care, healthcare, and water purification. ZeoVation produces ready-to-use zeolite materials that improve the efficiency of water softeners and filtration systems, as well as contribute to the development of antimicrobial and antiviral products. Their innovative materials can be integrated into sprays, coatings, packaging, plastics, paper, and textiles, providing long-lasting protection against pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria and viruses. ZeoVation is committed to supporting research and development efforts in various industries, leveraging the unique properties of its zeolites to create safer and cleaner products.

Yaupon Teahouse is an e-commerce website for skin care products, tea, bath, and body products. Their leaves were used for ceremonies, traditional medicine, and caffeinated tea. It develops teas and wellness products by pairing yaupon with other medicinal herbs and botanical plants. It also has a store to serve the local market.

Socialyte is a marketing agency based in Albany, New York, specializing in connecting brands with a curated network of 500 influential tastemakers. These tastemakers represent branded media across over 60% of the world's leading personal style blogs, as well as prestigious digital platforms for publications such as Vanity Fair, Glamour, and Teen Vogue. Socialyte develops and manages tailored digital marketing programs that address the specific needs of various brands, allowing them to effectively engage their target audiences and enhance purchase intent. The agency has successfully executed over 500 native advertising campaigns for a range of clients, including Fortune 500 companies and prominent fashion and beauty brands.

KUSHAE offers feminine personal care items. They provide a wide range of goods, including spray, body wash, lotions, and more. They also provide free shipping on orders of $60 or more.

SoaPen is a cosmetics firm established in 2016 by Amanat Anand and Shubham Issar, specializing in handmade soap products designed specifically for children. The company produces roll-on soap bottles that aim to encourage good hygiene habits among kids through engaging and playful designs. SoaPen's soaps are formulated to be non-irritating, non-toxic, and free from harmful ingredients such as SLS, parabens, and phthalates, as well as any animal by-products. By offering a fun way for children to wash their hands, SoaPen promotes personal hygiene in an enjoyable manner.

GuestBox is a subscription-based service that supplies vacation rental hosts with curated welcome boxes designed to enhance their guests' experiences. Each box contains high-quality essentials and luxury amenities, including toiletries, skincare products, and snacks. By offering a personalized selection of items, GuestBox allows hosts to treat their guests to a more comfortable and enjoyable stay. The service operates on a monthly subscription model, ensuring that hosts can conveniently order and receive these thoughtfully assembled gift boxes delivered directly to their properties.

Orchid Green has developed the natural compound AAPE1, which is an anti-aging antioxidant for skin. AAPE1 is chemically stable, resistant under high and low temperatures, and keeps its effectiveness over time. AAPE is water soluble and inhibits wrinkle formation.

Kreyol Essence is an agribusiness that specializes in providing affordable luxury beauty products sourced from organic commodities in Haiti. Known for its commitment to being "natural with a purpose," the company focuses on empowering women by addressing various skin flaws while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for 400 local women and farmers. Kreyol Essence aims to enhance environmental, agricultural, and economic conditions in Haiti, positioning itself as a model for addressing complex social issues through sustainable business practices. By offering quality beauty products, the company not only promotes personal wellness but also supports local artisans and cultivates a positive impact on the community.

SunZee is an innovative company focused on revolutionizing sun protection through its unique sunscreen delivery system. The company has developed a patent-pending capsule that allows users to extract a measured amount of sunscreen directly onto their fingertips with a simple one-handed motion. This system is integrated into a fashionable wristband, making sun protection both accessible and convenient for users, particularly children. By addressing the evolving needs of consumers and enhancing awareness of sun damage, SunZee aims to transform how individuals engage with sunscreen, promoting better habits for sun safety in everyday life.

Giaran, Inc. is a technology company based in Brookline, Massachusetts, specializing in software that enhances the cosmetic shopping experience through virtual try-on solutions. Founded in 2016, Giaran offers an innovative online application that employs artificial intelligence and augmented reality to enable users to virtually sample makeup products in real-time, whether in-store, online, or on-the-go. The company's technology focuses on providing precise color matching for cosmetic products, enhancing consumer engagement and personalization in the beauty industry. As of November 2017, Giaran operates as a subsidiary of Shiseido Americas Corporation.

BeautyLynk, Inc. is a beauty booking platform that offers on-location and web-based services for hair and makeup. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, the company caters primarily to women, as well as men and children aged 17 and older. BeautyLynk connects users with professional hair stylists and makeup artists who provide services at homes, offices, hotels, and other locations, making beauty services more accessible and convenient. With operations in Atlanta, Boston, and Washington, D.C., the platform allows customers to book appointments easily, saving them time and enhancing their grooming experience.

MesenFlow Technologies specializes in innovative bio-imaging technology aimed at enhancing drug and cosmetic development. The company’s platform addresses critical challenges in modern drug development, including species cross-reactivity and the ethical concerns of animal testing. By utilizing proprietary protocols on primary human cells, MesenFlow enables early definition of a drug's mechanism of action and its relevance to human biology. This approach not only accelerates the pharmaceutical testing process but also extends to the cosmetics and nutraceutical sectors, allowing for the assessment of product safety and efficacy at an early stage. MesenFlow's technology is particularly beneficial for organizations requiring animal-free testing solutions, ensuring compliance with regulatory demands while prioritizing human biological impact.

Beauty Van is a mobile shop concept who empowers beauty salons by providing: Product and service training, an Intelligent stock system, exclusive products and a great customer experience. They own 5 mobile stores and 76 customers. They plan to increase 40 units in 5 years and 42 customers per van.

They are changing the story of the smallholder farmer starting with Moringa, known worldwide as “the miracle tree” for its highly nutritional leaves. They take the forgotten part --the seeds-- and process them into an oil with unmatched cosmetic benefits for hair and skin care and a press meal for animal feed and water purification. They manage the entire supply chain- training, micro-credit, miniaturized value-added processing, and marketing to a global audience.

Eyedoll Chatter is an application that offers scented eyeshadows, face shimmers, and lip glosses.

Pixtr Ltd. is a mobile photo editing application company founded in 2012 and based in Haifa, Israel. The application transforms photography by providing users with professional-quality editing tools designed for anyone, regardless of their photography expertise. Pixtr focuses on enhancing key elements in photos, particularly people, to ensure they always appear at their best. Its features include removing skin blemishes, correcting red-eye, and improving the natural look of selfies, even in group settings. By making advanced image improvement accessible to all, Pixtr aims to set a new standard in photography, positioning itself as a go-to solution for enhancing photographs across various platforms.

LiquiGlide Inc., founded in 2012 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of innovative liquid-impregnated coatings designed to facilitate the effortless movement of viscous liquids. As a pioneer in creating permanently wet slippery surfaces, LiquiGlide provides unique solutions that enhance the flow of liquids across various industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, aviation, utilities, and food and beverage. The company's technology addresses the common challenges associated with moving thick liquids, offering a durable alternative that is unmatched in the market. LiquiGlide's products are utilized in diverse applications, ranging from health and beauty to household goods, making it a versatile player in the coatings industry.

StyleShare Inc. is a South Korean company founded in 2011 that specializes in designing and developing a mobile and web application focused on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. The platform serves as a real-time space for users to share and receive updates related to these interests, allowing individuals to showcase their daily outfits and recent purchases. With millions of users across 120 countries, StyleShare has established itself as a leading mobile platform in the fashion and beauty sector, earning recognition from prominent publications such as VOGUE, Instyle, and Elle Japan. Through its innovative application, StyleShare facilitates a vibrant community where users can connect over their shared passion for fashion.

Casa Couture, founded in 2011 by Claudia Espinola, specializes in designing and manufacturing stylish shoes for women, with a particular focus on providing comfort and adaptability during pregnancy and motherhood. Recognized by industry publications such as WWD and The Bump, the company's footwear is crafted from innovative materials that mold to the wearer's feet, offering both luxury style and comfort.

Sproxil, Inc. is an information technology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in product protection and consumer engagement solutions. Founded in 2008, the company provides a range of services including Sproxil Champion, a consumer rewards system that allows brands to offer rewards; Sproxil Defender, a product verification solution enabling consumers to authenticate products via mobile devices; and Sproxil Informer, a track and trace system for monitoring supply chains. Sproxil's solutions cater to various sectors, including beauty and personal care, fast-moving consumer goods, electronics, automotive, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and agribusiness. The company utilizes mobile technology to enhance brand protection, combat counterfeiting, and foster consumer loyalty while ensuring the integrity of supply chains.