Unilever continues to grow its personal care prestige portfolio with the acquisition of clinical skincare brand Murad, the amount of the transaction was not disclosed. This follows the recent acquisitions of Dermalogica, Kate Somerville and REN.

Founded in 1989 in Los Angeles, Murad is the first modern doctor brand. Its creator, Howard Murad MD, a dermatologist, pharmacist, and UCLA professor, developed a unique recipe of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and hydrators to address virtually every skin care concern, from acne to anti-ageing.

Murad has a significant presence in the US through professional salons and spas such as Massage Envy, and specialist retailers such as Sephora, Ulta and Nordstrom; as well as through direct sales. It also has a regional hub for Europe located in the UK, and the brand can be found in over 42 countries, in department stores, pharmacies, spas and salons.

The brand, which had a turnover of US$115m in 2014, will be incorporated into Unilever’s Prestige division, which is exclusively dedicated to select distribution and premium personal care brands.