Curology launched a first-of-its-kind online service that offers customized prescription creams for acne and anti-aging. Founded by dermatologist Dr. David Lortscher, Curology partners patients with licensed healthcare professionals and custom-formulates medications at its laboratory in San Diego, CA

New patients are paired online with a licensed dermatologist or nurse practitioner who evaluates photos of the patient's skin, prescribes a medication tailored for their skin type and becomes their long-term partner in achieving their skincare goals. Curology patients have their medications shipped to their door and have access to unlimited communication with their healthcare provider via a secure messaging platform.

"Prescription medications are highly effective for treating acne and wrinkles. But so many people can't spend the time required to visit a doctor's office and a pharmacy," said Dr. Lortscher. "So we built an end-to-end personalized experience that makes it simple to achieve clear, healthy and youthful skin."

Curology also recieved $4.2 million in funding from Sherpa Capital, known for investments in Munchery, Uber and Ipsy, and from Forerunner Ventures, whose portfolio includes Warby Parker, Birchbox and Glossier. This first institutional round of funding will allow Curology to scale its medical team and continue investing in research and development of customized prescription skincare. Curology originally debuted in 2014 under the name PocketDerm and initially treated only acne. Its notable efficacy generated significant buzz on Reddit and other online communities, fueling growth of the patient base in excess of 30 percent month-over-month since launch.

Curology is currently available in 40 states and customers can sign up at www.curology.com.