Lauder strengthens skincare offering.(International News)(Estee Lauder Inc. acquires Rodan and...

Estee Lauder is putting its weight behind the trend for dermatology-based skincare brands by adding skincare line Rodan & Fields to its portfolio.

This is the second dermatology brand acquired by the cosmetics giant in just three months--it announced its purchase of prestige skincare brand Darphin in May (Cosmetics International 9 May 2003).

Rodan & Fields, which will become part of Estee Lauder's speciality brands portfolio, was introduced in 2002 by dermatologists Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields. They described the new deal as 'a dream come true' and will rem