Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali helped turn Hailey Bieber’s Rhode into a global skincare success. From clinical expertise to thoughtful innovation, here’s how he’s helping shape the future of dermatology.
Few names in dermatology today are as influential as Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali. As the lead formulator behind Rhode Skin by Hailey Bieber and a trusted expert to some of the biggest names in beauty, he brings together medical knowledge, creativity, and a deep respect for science-backed skincare.
From helping build a billion-dollar brand to guiding patients at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery, Dr. Bhanusali’s work blends entrepreneurship with a physician’s care.
Rhode’s Rise—Led by Dermatologic Expertise
When Rhode launched in 2022, its minimalist design and affordable pricing helped it stand out. But what truly set it apart was its foundation: dermatology-led formulation. Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali didn’t just advise—he led the product development from day one, ensuring that each ingredient served a clear, beneficial purpose.
“We started day one. We looked at formula ingredients. We were able to lead with science.” — Dr. Bhanusali
From the hydrating essentials to the brand’s signature peptide lip treatments, Rhode’s success was rooted in real skin needs and careful formulation. Using tools like VISIA-CR skin analysis and ingredient mapping, Dr. Bhanusali helped build a line that resonated not just for its look—but its results.
Joining him was award-winning cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, founder of BeautyStat, who brought over three decades of product development experience to the table. Their shared focus on efficacy ensured Rhode was more than a trend—it was a thoughtfully developed skincare solution.
“It’s one thing to get a product once—but to repurchase and make it part of your routine, that’s the greatest honor as a formulator,” says Dr. Bhanusali.
“It’s been humbling to see people all over the world using Rhode products, sharing their before-and-after photos, and talking about the ingredients. Seeing that kind of ingredient curiosity as a doctor is a dream.”
For Dr. Bhanusali, watching users around the world embrace the products—studying labels, asking questions, and celebrating skin health—has been the most rewarding part of the journey.
“Seeing people care for their skin barrier and approach skincare with curiosity and care—that’s what it’s all about.”
Dr. Bhanusali also highlights that Rhode didn’t cut corners when it came to quality.
“We used ingredients we believed in, and the focus was always on real efficacy,” he explains. “Watching people care for their skin barrier, ask the right questions, and embrace skincare with knowledge—that’s the best part of this journey.”
He also credits the Rhode team:
“Hailey is incredibly involved—she’s a true visionary. The entire team, from Lauren to the marketing side, brought Rhode to life. They created a world around the products. You can feel it.”
The Billion-Dollar Exit: Rhode x e.l.f.
Dr. Bhanusali’s leadership in formulation didn’t end with Rhode’s launch. In 2024, the brand was acquired by e.l.f. Beauty for $1 billion—proving that dermatology-led skincare can scale while staying grounded in science.
Dr. Bhanusali: Much More Than a Formulator
Dermatologist-in-residence at Rhode Skin
Founder of Skin Medicinals, HairStim, and Aire
Trusted by icons like Hailey Bieber and Martha Stewart
Creator of custom prescription skincare for 400,000+ patients
Whether working with icons like Martha Stewart or developing custom solutions for everyday patients, Dr. Bhanusali applies the same level of care and expertise. From Skin Medicinals, a prescription platform serving over 400,000 patients, to HairStim for hair loss, and Aire for curated skincare access—his projects reflect a broader mission: make quality skincare accessible and informed.
“She has to know what every ingredient does… We actually talk about studies quite a bit.” — Dr. Bhanusali on Martha Stewart
Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery: Dermatology of the Celebrities in New York
At Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery, Dr. Bhanusali leads a team of respected dermatologists including Dr. Kiran Mian, Dr. Chelsea Hoffman, Dr. Aya Ahram, and Dr. Muneeb Shah.
The team combines deep clinical knowledge with cutting-edge tools like VISIA imaging and custom serums to offer care that’s as personal as it is advanced.
Treatments range from Laser Genesis and RF microneedling to vascular lasers, melasma therapy, and injectables—all carefully selected based on a patient’s goals and skin biology. The clinic’s reputation has quietly grown, with clients ranging from brides to celebrities, many of whom trust the team for both red carpet prep and long-term skin health.
The waiting room might seem serene, but the results speak volumes. From brides prepping for their big day to celebrities slipping in before the Met Gala, Hudson Derm is where New York’s most luminous skin stories begin.
Dr. Bhanusali’s Expanding Impact
Yet, Dr. B isn’t slowing down. From investments in wellness and hospitality, to exploring the Indian beauty boom, to educational efforts for dermatologists worldwide, he’s helping shape the global conversation on skincare innovation.
The Takeaway: The New Face of Skincare Leadership
Even after the Rhode acquisition, Dr. Bhanusali continues to explore new possibilities—whether investing in wellness and hospitality, supporting the Indian beauty movement, or educating the next generation of dermatologists.
“I’m a doctor first. But outside of medicine, I like to do things that make me feel like a kid again.” — Dr. Bhanusali
Dr. Bhanusali’s role in Rhode—and his broader body of work—is a testament to what happens when dermatology leads the conversation. From the exam room to global product development, his focus remains the same: thoughtful, effective care.
For those searching for Martha Stewart’s dermatologist, or the expert who helped Rhode become a billion-dollar brand, now you know: Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali is one of the trusted names guiding where skincare is headed next.
