Karo Healthcare acquires new skin health brands, expanding European consumer health portfolio
This acquisition marks a significant milestone in its strategic expansion, reinforcing its commitment to delivering superior, science-supported consumer health solutions across Europe through a robust omnichannel approach.
SWEDEN – Karo Healthcare, a leading European consumer healthcare company, has confirmed a significant acquisition that will significantly strengthen its position in the European skin health market.
The company is set to acquire a portfolio of science-backed skin health brands from Perrigo’s Dermacosmetics business, including well-known names such as ACO, along with its sub-brands Cosmica, Canoderm, Cliniderm, and Miniderm, as well as Biodermal, Emolium, and Iwostin.
These brands offer a wide range of medical skin health solutions across face, body, and sun care categories.
This strategic acquisition, expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, follows the recent takeover of Karo Healthcare by global investment firm KKR.
Perrigo’s Dermacosmetics business generated over €120 million (USD 138.5 million) in net sales in 2024, primarily across Northern Europe, including the Nordics, the Netherlands, and Poland.
The deal is a perfect fit for Karo, as it expands its skin health portfolio and deepens its footprint in these key markets.
Christoffer Lorenzen, CEO of Karo Healthcare, described the acquisition as a transformational step in Karo’s strategy to become a multi-channel European leader in consumer healthcare.
He stated, “It brings a portfolio of attractive, science-backed, and trusted skin health brands to Karo, which have strong consumer positions and healthcare specialist endorsement in key markets.”
“Following completion, we look forward to welcoming talented employees to Karo, adding critical capabilities that will support the continued strengthening and long-term development of our company.”
KKR’s managing director, Hans Arstad, echoed this outlook, highlighting Karo’s strong Nordic consumer healthcare platform, combined with KKR’s experience in corporate carveouts, which positions the acquired brands and teams for ongoing success.
Karo Healthcare offers a diverse portfolio of consumer health products spanning skin care, foot care, intimate hygiene, digestive health, pain relief, and vitamins, many of which are rooted in medical science and trusted by healthcare professionals.
Their brands include Emolium, ACO, E45, and Multi-Gyn, catering to everyday wellness needs across pharmacies and retail channels in over 90 countries.
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