OSEA Malibu, a pioneering brand in seaweed-infused skincare, has set the standard for clean and clinically-proven beauty for nearly 30 years. The company announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to receive a strategic growth investment from General Atlantic. Mother-daughter founders Jenefer and Melissa Palmer will retain a significant stake in the company and continue to actively lead and support its day-to-day operations, mission, and strategy.
Founded in 1996 in Malibu, California, OSEA was established by three generations of women who harnessed the healing power of the sea through seaweed-infused, clinically-proven skincare, with a holistic focus on wellness and self-care. Over the past three decades, OSEA has become a trusted leader in prestige body skincare, particularly known for its award-winning and iconic Undaria Algae Body Oil.
With the investment from General Atlantic, OSEA aims to deepen its presence in existing markets and introduce its innovative products to additional markets worldwide. Building on its rich heritage and commitment to quality, OSEA will continue to advance product development, offering exceptional skincare to consumers and retail partners worldwide.
As part of this transaction, Andrew Ferrer and Ben Sherman from General Atlantic will join the OSEA Board of Directors. OSEA remained self-funded until 2020, when it received investment from CAVU Consumer Partners, a growth equity fund recognized for building and supporting iconic brands. Following the completion of this transaction, CAVU will fully exit its investment.
Advisors: Raymond James served as the exclusive financial advisor to OSEA. Sidley Austin LLP provided legal counsel to OSEA, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP served as legal counsel to General Atlantic. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
KEY QUOTES:
“General Atlantic’s longstanding commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, sustainability, and impact perfectly aligns with OSEA’s mission. We’re confident that this partnership will create exciting opportunities for innovation and global expansion, while remaining true to our roots and shared values. As we look forward to this next chapter of growth, we are deeply grateful to the entire OSEA team, our partners at CAVU, and most importantly, the incredible community that has supported us over the last 30 years.”
Melissa Palmer, Co-Founder and CEO, OSEA
“OSEA is a rare brand that combines three decades of family values, consumer trust, and category leadership. We are honored to partner with Melissa, Jenefer, and the OSEA team to help carry the family’s legacy forward and to support their vision for clean beauty innovation and global expansion.” Ben Sherman, Principal at General Atlantic, added, “At the intersection of clean, clinically-proven skincare and holistic wellness, OSEA has built strong momentum in prestige body care and established a reputation for integrity, efficacy, and excellence. We look forward to supporting the team as they unlock the next phase of OSEA’s growth.”
Andrew Ferrer, Managing Director at General Atlantic
