Sebacia, a dermatology company that uses gold to treat acne, has received $20m in series D financing.
The US-based firm has created a microparticle with a silica core wrapped in gold that is designed to cure acne using the light from a hair removal laser system, as opposed to tablets or creams.
The financing round was led by current investors Versant Ventures, Domain Associates, Accuitive Medical Ventures and Partners Healthcare Innovation Fund.
However new investors now account for 60% in the latest round of funding, including investment bank Salem Partners and other undisclosed investors.
"At this pivotal time, we are grateful for the continued support of our top-tier venture capital syndicate and energised by the addition of Salem Partners and other new investors," said Sebacia CEO Anthony V Lando.
"From intellectual property to extensive clinical experience and a defined clinical path to approval, we believe we have all the pieces to bring Sebacia's breakthrough treatment for acne to market in Europe and the US."
Sebacia said it intends to use the funding to complete a US clinical trial with expected results by mid-2018.
The firm also intends to extend its commercial presence into Europe and expand its global patent estate.