lelive, a South African skincare brand founded by actress and model Amanda du-Pont, is setting its sights on international markets with a highly anticipated launch in London this June 2024. The brand’s unique blend of African botanicals and science-backed formulas caters to a global audience seeking effective, affordable luxury skincare solutions.
From Local Success to Global Ambition
lelive, meaning “light of the world” in du-Pont’s Swati name, has experienced remarkable growth since its launch. This impressive trajectory caught the eye of Invenfin, the venture capital arm of South African investment giant Remgro Limited. Their growth capital investment will fuel lelive’s expansion into the global marketplace.
Championing Diverse Skin Types
lelive caters to a significant unmet need in the global skincare market: effective solutions for diverse skin tones and types. Du-Pont, who struggled with acne-prone skin herself, saw a gap in the market for natural, results-oriented products that celebrate African ingredients.
“lelive reflects the growing desire for natural, back-to-basics skincare,” says du-Pont. “We harness the power of African botanicals traditionally used for their healing properties, omitting unnecessary additives and fragrances.”
Rooted in Africa, Reaching the World
lelive’s story resonates with a global audience. Many consumers struggle to find products that address their specific skin concerns or cater to their skin tones. lelive offers a balanced, neutral product line that leverages the power of nature alongside African beauty traditions.
“African communities have a rich heritage of using natural ingredients like aloe and shea butter,” explains du-Pont. “lelive incorporates these potent botanicals into our formulas to target concerns like hyperpigmentation and scarring, common among diverse skin types.”
A Perfect Partnership for Global Expansion
lelive’s commitment to its brand and its potential resonated with Invenfin, who were sought out as a partner for international expansion. London, with its diverse population (64% multi-ethnic), serves as the ideal launchpad for lelive’s global ambitions.
“We invest in brands with strong South African and African roots, but also with the potential to succeed internationally,” says Judy Sendzul of Invenfin. “lelive has earned its success with high-quality, inclusive products, exceptional customer engagement, and a dedication to sustainability. This brand cuts through the noise with effective, results-driven skincare.”
Beyond Investment, Building a Legacy
lelive prioritizes relationships and community, seeking an investment partner who offered more than just capital. Invenfin’s commitment to ethical practices and global strategic guidance aligned perfectly with lelive’s vision.
“Our investment will help lelive become a truly global African skincare brand,” says Sendzul. “lelive’s team is passionate about demystifying skincare and empowering people to achieve healthy, beautiful skin.”
lelive is currently available online in South Africa at https://leliveafrica.com/collections/all and through local retailers like Woolworths, Foschini, Arc Beauty, and Wellness Warehouse. Soon, beauty enthusiasts in the United Kingdom will also be able to experience the power of African botanicals with lelive’s exciting launch.