Kanika Talwar studied cosmetic formulation and consumer behavior, noticing that Indian skincare was congested with hyperbolic 'miracle cure' claims, deceptive natural marketing, and unverified herbal formulas. Discerning Indian consumers were increasingly educating themselves on active ingredients like Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid.
In 2021, Kanika and Angad Talwar launched CosIQ in New Delhi. CosIQ was built on radical ingredient transparency: every product boldly displayed the exact percentage of active molecular compounds on the front of the packaging, alongside pH levels and clinical efficacy data. CosIQ also created the revolutionary SPF 50 Sunscreen Serum—a water-like sun protector that avoided the greasy white cast common to sunscreens.
On Shark Tank India Season 1, CosIQ secured a ₹50 Lakh investment from SUGAR Cosmetics founder Vineeta Singh and Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal. With backing from beauty titans, CosIQ expanded its clinical research and omnichannel beauty footprint.
