When Scarlett Johansson launched her skincare brand, The Outset, many beauty junkies were curious. Can a celebrity brand truly perform especially for sensitive skin? While only time and growing user reviews will tell, you might be surprised at the answer.
In this comprehensive review, we take a look at what real users have to say about The Outset, supported by expert opinions and personal uses, including everything you should know before purchasing.
Whether you are new to skincare or just want to take it down a notch, we will help you make an informed decision, based on natural or minimalistic, choices if Scarlett Johansson’s line is for you.
What is The Outset?
The Outset is a clean skincare line launched by Scarlett Johansson in 2022 that champions simplicity, gentle formulations, and minimalism. They don’t promote overwhelming 10-step regimes or confusing actives- they promote basics that are skin-barrier friendly, hydrate, cleanse, and nurture sensitive skin.
According to Johansson, “We wanted to create a skincare line that was effective but gentle enough for all skin types- especially for those of us who have had irritation from conventional products.”
The Outset is gaining traction- real user reviews
Here are some of the key themes and insights gathered through hundreds of customer reviews and dermatologist commentary:
Gentle and Non-Irritating – a sensitive skin savior
Users with sensitive, reactive skin have seemingly all agreed that products from The Outset are calming and non-irritating.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist, says, “The Outset formulations are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it a great option for someone with sensitive or compromised skin barrier”.
If you’ve struggled with redness, breakouts from actives that are harsh, or products that leave your skin feel inflamed, The Outset could be a good calming option.
2. Hydrating and Moisturizing – Skin Feels Soft, Not Greasy
A common descriptor used by reviewers is “plump,” “hydrated,” and “velvety soft.” Star product? Nourishing Daily Moisturizer.
Key ingredient: Hyaluroset™ Complex (a plant-based hyaluronic acid alternative)
Effect: Long-lasting hydration, while also feeling lightweight.
“This moisturizer kept my skin dewy all day, but never oily,” shares a user with combination skin.
3. Cleansers that Clean Without Stripping the Skin
One standout of the collection is the Gentle Micellar Antioxidant Cleanser. Several users pointed out how well it worked at removing makeup, dirt, and oils, without the stripped feeling afterward!
“It took off my waterproof mascara without irritating my eyes or making my skin feel tight. Win!”
A review in Good Morning America even declared this a “must-have for make-up users with sensitive skin.”
4. Clear and Simple – Less is More
Minimalism is a big sell for The Outset. The brand resonates with people who want to:
Decrease decision fatigue
Reduce active layering
Simplify their skincare shelf
It is a simple philosophy: fewer ingredients. higher quality. More results.
“The Outset brought me back to basics after years of trying too many serums and acids – and my skin has never looked better,” one beauty blogger on YouTube stated.
5. Vegan, Cruelty-Free, and Green
In this era of connected beauty, more and more consumers are gravitating toward vegan and cruelty-free brands. The Outset satisfies both options
Certified Cruelty-Free
100% Vegan Formulations
Recyclable Packaging
The brand doesn’t use fragrance ingredients, alcohols, or parabens, which are even more aligned with clean-beauty principles.
What Could Be Improved? Authentic Feedback
While most reviews are complimentary, here are a few areas in which users feel there is room for improvement:
Not the best for Complicated Skin Conditions
Some reviewers mention that while The Outset is great for hydration and sensitive skin, it doesn’t offer targeted treatment with active ingredients for any concerns, like:
- Acne
- Hyperpigmentation
- Fine lines
“I wish there was a treatment serum for dark spots or exfoliation,” mentions one skincare lover.
Price Point: Costs of luxury skincare
At a prescribed cost of $32 to $54 per product, The Outset is situated in the mid-to-high price point. While many say it is worth it due to the quality (as well as the packaging), it may not be feasible to include it in everyone’s budget.
“I love the results, but I can only ever repurchase during sales,” students reported.
Packaging: Minimalistic luxury
The packaging for The Outset always scores well, as it is unassuming, minimalistic, and looks high-end. The matte finish, glass bottles, and pump dispensers are a stylish, practical combination.
“It looks like the packaging I would see at a high-end spa—clean, minimalistic, and modern,” an Instagram skincare reviewer wrote.
Pro Tip: According to The Outset
Here is a beginner’s step-by-step skincare routine, easy to follow:
CLEANSE: Start with Gentle Micellar Antioxidant Cleanser
SERUM: Use The Firming Vegan Collagen Prep Serum (AM & PM)
MOISTURIZE: Apply Nourishing Daily Moisturizer
SPF: (for now, you will have to use your own SPF – The Outset does not have one yet!)
FAQ Section: Scarlett Johansson Skincare Reviews
Q1. Is The Outset good for acne-prone skin?
A1: Yes, the products are all non-comedogenic, which means they will not clog pores for many; however, it doesn’t contain acne-targeted active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Q2. Can I use The Outset as a person with rosacea?
A2: Many will tell you that The Outset products are gentle and non-irritating for many people with rosacea, but still do a patch test or consult your dermatologist.
Q3. Is The Outset safe for men to use?
A3 Yes! The products are unisex and fragrance-free, which means that it is safe for all people to use!
Q4. Are the products fragrance-free?
A4: Yes, we do not use synthetic fragrances, so our products are excellent for sensitive skin.
Q5. Is The Outset vegan and cruelty-free?
A5: A hundred percent! The Outset is both vegan and cruelty-free.
Q6. Where can I buy The Outset?
A6: Online on The Outset’s website, Sephora, and selected retailers in the U.S.
Q7. What age is The Outset best for?
A7: While it is good for all age groups, it is especially beneficial for 20s – 40s who are looking for prevention and hydration.
Conclusion: Simple, Clean, and Kind to Skin
The Outset, Scarlett Johansson’s line, delivers on its promise of simplicity and kindness to skin. For anyone who feels overwhelmed by the crazy world of the ability to care for your skin, or of having sensitive skin that is constantly flaring up, The Outset helps give you a fresh start.
