Skiom stands at the forefront of skincare innovation, transforming skin health and wellness through cutting-edge microbiome science. The brand harnesses the synergistic power of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to develop targeted formulations that restore the skin’s natural equilibrium and strengthen its resilience. Flagship products like Acne Shield, Moisture Guard, and Restore Skin Aging tackle specific dermatological concerns while elevating overall skin vitality.
At the heart of Skiom’s identity lies its guiding philosophy—“Skiom-ology.” This ethos champions a seamless fusion of nature and science, resulting in formulations that are both gentle and clinically effective. Every product is pH-balanced, cruelty-free, and meticulously crafted without parabens or surfactants. Sustainability and ethical responsibility are not just values—they are non-negotiable standards embedded in the brand’s DNA.
Driven by a vision to help individuals celebrate their natural beauty, Skiom invites users to embark on a journey toward healthier, radiant skin. Its unwavering commitment to research-backed innovation, skin safety, and accessible skincare has earned Skiom a trusted reputation in the rapidly evolving microbiome skincare space.
In an exclusive interaction with The Interview World at Startup Mahakumbh, Dr. Gautam Banerjee, Co-founder and CEO of Skiom Pvt. Ltd., offered deeper insights into what sets Skiom apart. He broke down the distinct benefits of microbiome-centric skincare, articulated why these formulations remain safe and effective for all skin types, and underscored their affordability—making advanced skincare attainable for the everyday consumer.
Here are the key takeaways from that enlightening conversation.
Q: Can you tell us about the innovative skincare products developed by Skiom and what sets them apart in the market?
A: Skiom, derived from “skin microbiome,” encapsulates our core mission—to restore and regulate the skin’s microbial balance through topical applications that enhance skin health and overall wellness. Our focus lies at the intersection of beauty and personal care, with a deep commitment to the science of the microbiome.
We specifically target the skin microbiome to maintain its balance and biodiversity—a critical foundation for resolving a wide range of skin issues, including acne, dryness, dehydration, compromised barrier function, and even wound healing. At the root of most dermatological concerns lies an imbalance in this delicate ecosystem, and Skiom’s formulations are designed to correct it.
To that end, we incorporate a potent combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics into our products, which come in various user-friendly formats—gels, serums, balms, and more. Looking ahead, we plan to expand into adjacent segments such as men’s grooming and pediatric skincare, including solutions for diaper rash.
Our innovation pipeline is already strong. We have filed three patents and secured necessary regulatory approvals. Two clinical trials have been successfully completed, while a third—focused on anti-aging—is currently underway. Although we are currently a pre-revenue company, we are gearing up for our official product launch, slated for June or July, as we finalize creative assets and go-to-market strategies.
With science-backed innovation at our core, Skiom is poised to redefine skincare through the lens of microbiome health.
Q: What differentiates your products from others in the same market segment?
A: Most other products in the market, if you examine closely, contain more or less the same ingredients—just in varying percentages. I won’t name any specific brands, but the reality is that these formulations merely tinker with superficial differences. The core issue is this: none of them address the root cause of poor skin health—the imbalance of the skin microbiome. This delicate ecosystem, when disrupted, leads directly to skin problems.
Worse, many of these products rely on antimicrobials, which may offer short-term relief but ultimately cause antimicrobial resistance—a far more serious and long-term issue.
In contrast, our product takes a fundamentally different and science-backed approach. It directly targets skin dysbiosis, or the imbalance in the skin microbiome, and works to restore eubiosis—a state of healthy microbial balance. We achieve this by formulating our product with a potent combination of prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics, essentially dietary fibers, serve as nourishment for beneficial microbes, while probiotics—like the good bacteria found in yogurt—help repopulate and support the skin’s natural flora.
This synergy addresses the problem at its root, offering a far more effective and sustainable solution. Additionally, our formulation adheres to principles of green chemistry. It contains no harsh chemicals—no parabens, sulfates, or ingredients tested on animals—making it cruelty-free and environmentally responsible.
From a regulatory standpoint, our product meets global benchmarks. Consumers in advanced markets like Japan and Korea are increasingly microbiome-conscious; in fact, nearly 75% now seek out skin microbiome-friendly products. We are proud to develop a product that not only meets their expectations but does so while being entirely Made in India. Our goal is clear: to deliver a globally competitive, scientifically robust solution rooted in microbiome innovation.
Q: With the Indian market flooded with beauty products—many of which come with their own side effects—how does your product stand out as a safer and more effective solution in the skincare segment?
A: When it comes to side effects, our product stands on solid ground. First and foremost, we have already conducted comprehensive safety testing—results confirm it is safe for use. Secondly, all the ingredients we use are GRAS-certified (Generally Recognized As Safe), reinforcing the product’s safety profile at every level.
In stark contrast, many conventional products rely heavily on synthetic chemicals—often the primary culprits behind adverse side effects. We’ve taken a different route. Our formulation contains no harmful chemicals whatsoever. As a result, users experience no chemical-related side effects.
Moreover, because our product is free from such risks, we can deliver it in a functional dose—one that is both effective and well-tolerated. Unlike typical market offerings that merely operate at an emotive or superficial level, our formulation is designed for performance. It delivers real, functional benefits—without compromising on safety.
Q: Are your products priced to be accessible and affordable for the average consumer?
A: Our pricing strategy is intentionally affordable. The product will be available in a jar format priced at approximately ₹800—enough to last one person an entire month. Similarly, the serum will be offered at around ₹900, placing it well below premium price points.
These prices are not only competitive but also highly accessible to the average Indian consumer. One jar or one tube provides a full month’s supply, ensuring both value and efficacy without financial strain. In short, we’ve made high-quality skincare truly within reach.
