A&O Shearman is acting as legal advisor to L’Oréal in its estimated €1bn acquisition of a majority stake in British skincare brand Medik8 from UK private equity firm Inflexion. 

The deal underscores L’Oréal’s commitment to expanding its portfolio of science-backed skincare products and aims to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing dermocosmetics market. 

The Paris-based company said the acquisition adds “a premium science-backed skincare brand” to its portfolio. L’Oréal added that Medik8 has a “proven track record of success, with strong potential for global growth”. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. 

The A&O Shearman team was led by M&A partners Matthew Appleton and Aoife McDermott, supported by senior associate Antony Dean, associates Arabella Robinson and Toluwa Agboola, and trainee Asfia Mohsin. 

Also involved were incentives adviser partner Mahesh Varia, with support from associate Betty Lorimer. Tax advice was provided by partners Lydia Challen and Guillaume Valois, with senior associate Charlotte Signol and associate Geraldine Chan. Antitrust advice was provided by partner Thomas Masterman and senior associate Lindsay Morison, and of counsel Elaine Johnston with associates Kiko Demetriou and Regina Loureiro.

L’Oréal’s legal team was led by M&A general counsel Arnaud de Rochebrune and associate Guillaume Regnier.

Inflexion Private Equity Partners will continue to hold a minority stake in Medik8, but L’Oréal secured rights to buy out the minority shareholders in full. Medik8’s founder Elliot Isaacs and current management team will remain in place.

“This is an exciting day for Medik8,” said Inflexion CEO Simon Coble. “I am delighted to be joining forces with a company that shares our vision for the brand’s future growth and whose core values align with our deep commitment to science, innovation, and results without compromise.”

President of L’Oréal Luxe Cyril Chapuy, commented: “Medik8 perfectly complements our skincare portfolio. We share a strong belief in its global potential and are excited to build a powerful brand presence worldwide.”

The acquisition is expected to close in the next few months, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions.

Founded in 2009, Medik8 gained recognition for its innovative formulations, particularly its vitamin A-based, anti-ageing products such as the brand’s flagship product Crystal Retinal. 

L’Oréal’s portfolio of 37 international brands includes Biotherm, Lancôme, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino and Kiehl’s Since 1851.