Samantha Prabhu Joins Secret Alchemist As Co-founder After $500K Seed Round From IPV

Actress Samantha Prabhu joined Secret Alchemist, a holistic aromatherapy-based wellness brand, as a co-founder.  Secret Alchemist has also raised USD 500,000 in a seed round led by Inflection Point Ventures (IPV).

With a keen focus on personal care and making aromatherapy accessible to a diverse audience, Secret Alchemist plans to use the funding strategically for growth. The company said that the funding will allow Secret Alchemist to ramp up their marketing efforts while increasing brand presence, customer reach and awareness. The product portfolio also sees expansion with pure-grade essential oils for a holistic wellness experience in the form of creams, mists and shower gels.

Commenting on the fundraising, Vinay Bansal, Founder, Inflection Point Ventures, said, “The beauty segment in India saw a surge in the '90s, which unfortunately brought unrealistic standards. Secret Alchemist is redefining this by promoting mindful, affordable products that encourage well-being and relaxation. IPV believes in the team's strong foundation and is committed to supporting their sustainable growth."

Samantha’s presence is also a seamless fit into the brand ethos with her deep connection to wellness, said the company. In addition to her widespread popularity, Samantha’s reach & influence in the South Indian markets, add a vital dimension to the team, alongside Ankita and Akash.

Samantha Prabhu, Co-founder, Secret Alchemist, said, “When I was on my healing journey and went for treatment abroad, aromatherapy became an unexpected source of comfort and healing for me. I realised just how much the healers in the West were making use of the power of essential oils to bring well-being. It made a big difference to my health that when I returned, I started searching for a brand that I could trust. And that’s when I found Secret Alchemist. After trying their oils and feeling their impact firsthand, I knew this wasn't something I wanted to keep a secret. I wanted to share it with the world. It’s not just about investing in a brand—it’s about believing in the power of natural remedies to bring true well-being. I’m proud to be a part of this journey. “

The beauty and personal care market in India is valued at USD 31.5 billion, with a robust 30 per cent year-on-year growth. The direct-to-consumer (D2C) body care segment, valued at USD 2.6 billion, is rapidly expanding. Secret Alchemist claimed that it is well-positioned to tap into this high-growth niche, targeting consumers who seek sustainable, natural, and wellness-focused products.