The private-equity firm will take a majority stake in Beautycounter owner Counter Brands, valuing it at $1 billion. : Private-equity firm Carlyle Group Inc. is taking a majority stake in the owner of the popular skin-care and cosmetics brand Beautycounter, executives from the companies said. The investment, which values parent Counter Brands LLC at $1 billion, will be used to increase consumer awareness of the fast-growing brand and bolster its digital-sales platform.