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San Diego–based biotech startup Debut has raised $20 million to push forward its AI-driven approach to discovering and developing new skincare ingredients. Unlike traditional beauty science, which often repurposes known natural compounds, Debut is harnessing artificial intelligence to scan an enormous library of potential molecules—more than 50 billion candidates—and predict their effects on skin biology. The company’s proprietary AI platform, BeautyORB, uses functional genomics data to model how these molecules influence gene expression across 30,000 human genes, boasting a predictive accuracy of 99%.
The goal is to identify novel chemical entities that can address the biological hallmarks of skin aging. According to CEO Joshua Britton, this method allows the company to either start with a molecule and assess its biological function or begin with a desired skin benefit—such as reducing inflammation—and work backwards to design an active ingredient. Debut validates its AI findings through lab testing, including RNA sequencing, safety checks, and functional assays, before advancing ingredients into skincare formulations.
To ensure these discoveries reach consumers at scale, Debut is investing in biomanufacturing capabilities that allow sustainable and cost-efficient production. The company also develops products under its own labels, such as DEINDE, which features Naringenin—an anti-inflammatory molecule uncovered through BeautyORB. At the same time, Debut aims to support established beauty brands by supplying differentiated, clinically backed ingredients.
Backed by investors including Fine Structure Ventures, EDBI, and BOLD, Debut plans to expand its U.S. operations and enter the Asian market, beginning with Singapore. There, it will work with local partners to design tailored formulations for regional skincare needs. Britton emphasizes that combining AI with deep biological insights allows the company to explore the “99.999% of unknown molecules” that may unlock new possibilities in skin health and longevity.
