British skincare brand Cetuem secures six-figure funding to fuel UK expansion

Independent family-owned skincare pioneer Cetuem is gearing up for major expansion in 2026 after securing six-figure funding from Allica Bank to meet surging demand for its gold-infused skincare and innovative pain relief products.

Founded over 30 years ago by husband-and-wife duo John and Andria Vassiliou in North London, Cetuem has long been a pioneer in the use of 24-carat colloidal gold in skincare.

The brand will ramp up production of its award-winning SCR Gold skincare collection and its new muscle pain relief range. Allica’s support will enable the business to renovate Cetuem’s Barnet headquarters and expand its Elstree manufacturing plant, giving it the capacity to increase production, refresh its packaging, buy more ingredients and hold more stock to meet large orders.

Cetuem’s flagship skincare range uses 24-carat colloidal gold and is suitable for men and women of all ages and skin conditions, with a prime function to strengthen the cellular structure of the skin.

"We’ve never compromised on quality," said co-founder Andria Vassiliou. "Every ingredient is chosen for performance – not marketing. This funding from Allica helps us grow while staying true to that philosophy."

Her husband, John, is a cosmetics chemist and the driving force behind Cetuem’s research and development. Their two eldest sons are cosmetics chemists too, with long-term plans to take over the business.

Andria Vassiliou added: "I never miss a delivery. So we’ve had to hold back from certain opportunities so we don’t let anyone down."

In addition to skincare, Cetuem has recently launched an Ice Pack for muscle and joint pain relief. Originally designed for arthritis and neuropathy sufferers, the product has also become popular with sports professionals and runners, including participants in the London Marathon.

Cetuem’s relationship manager at Allica Bank, Ian Teeney, said: "When you visit Cetuem, you instantly see the pride John and Andria take in every product that leaves their lab. Their knowledge, attention to detail, and family involvement at every level make them stand out. Supporting businesses like Cetuem – where passion meets long-term vision – is exactly what Allica was built for."

John Vassiliou commented: "When you sell up or outsource, you lose the soul of what you’ve built. You see this all the time. Formulas get diluted, or are no longer in their original form. Staying independent means staying true to our formulas and values. Allica and Ian’s support helps us grow without losing the soul of what we’ve built. We’re excited to see what 2026 will bring!"