Scarlett Johansson's The Outset: A Celebrity Skincare Line That's Actually Different?

Let's talk about celebrity skincare. I know, I know, the collective groan is almost audible. Another celebrity, another skincare line… yawn. But before you dismiss The Outset, Scarlett Johansson's brand, as just another cash grab (tell me which celeb skincare lines you think are guilty of that in the comments!), I genuinely believe this one might be different. And I'm going to tell you why.

Scarlett co-founded The Outset with Kate Foster, and the entire brand philosophy stems from their shared experience with sensitive skin. They wanted to create a line specifically designed for those of us who struggle with sensitivities, and as someone with combination, sensitive, rosacea-prone, and dehydrated skin, I was immediately intrigued. You guys have been requesting a review of this brand for a while, so when The Outset team reached out, I was thrilled!

Before we delve into the individual products, let me highlight a few key aspects of The Outset that truly impressed me. First, it's vegan and cruelty-free, which is always a positive. Second, it’s formulated without essential oils, fragrance, or alcohol – music to my sensitive skin’s ears! And third, they utilize a trademarked botanical hydration complex, which I think is brilliant. So many of you have reached out about your sensitivity to hyaluronic acid, and since it’s ubiquitous in skincare products these days, it can be incredibly difficult to avoid. The Outset addressing this specific concern truly resonated with me.

The Outset promotes a streamlined, three-step skincare routine, which Scarlett herself envisioned – get out the door in 2 minutes and 33 seconds. Now, she’s omitting sunscreen in that calculation, which is a non-negotiable for me, so add another 30 seconds and we’re at a three-minute routine. Still pretty darn impressive!

I'm a strong advocate for simplified skincare routines for several reasons. First, it’s simply easier. I’m busy, you’re busy, we’re all busy! Second, a simpler routine minimizes the risk of product pilling. You know, that annoying phenomenon when you layer on multiple serums and creams and they start to ball up on your skin, making your makeup look crumbly and uneven? Yeah, that. A streamlined routine helps avoid that mess. Third, it’s generally more budget-friendly. A 10-step routine can quickly become expensive, whereas a three-step system is much gentler on the wallet.

Finally, from a sensitivity perspective, fewer products mean fewer potential irritants. Plus, when products are formulated to work synergistically, like in The Outset’s system, you don’t have to worry about ingredients clashing with each other. The brand has already done the heavy lifting for you, so you can simply apply and go.

Alright, enough preamble, let’s get to the good stuff! The Outset’s three-step system comprises a cleanser, a serum, and a moisturizer.

This gel-based cleanser is designed to effectively remove makeup and impurities while simultaneously hydrating and brightening the skin. The micellar technology gently lifts away dirt and makeup without stripping the skin's natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, especially for sensitive skin types like mine. I’ve been using this cleanser both morning and night, and I’ve been consistently impressed with its ability to remove even stubborn mascara without leaving my skin feeling tight or dry. The lightweight, refreshing gel texture rinses away cleanly without any residue. The absence of fragrance is a significant advantage for sensitive skin, and I appreciate the clean, simple formulation. It feels gentle yet effective, leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed, not stripped and irritated. I would recommend this cleanser for all skin types, but particularly for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

This serum is the core of The Outset’s system, designed to prepare the skin for the moisturizer. It features a blend of vegan collagen, peptides, and antioxidants to help firm, plump, and hydrate the skin. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling smooth and hydrated without any sticky residue. I’ve observed a subtle but noticeable improvement in my skin’s texture and firmness since incorporating this serum into my routine. It also layers seamlessly under makeup, creating a smooth, hydrated canvas for application. The fragrance-free formula is another win for sensitive skin, and I appreciate that it doesn't cause any irritation or redness. This serum feels like a luxurious treat for my skin, providing a noticeable boost of hydration and firmness without overwhelming my sensitive complexion.

This moisturizer is the final step in The Outset’s three-step system, providing long-lasting hydration and nourishment. It’s formulated with squalane, a natural emollient that mimics the skin’s natural oils, helping to lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. The rich, creamy texture absorbs quickly without feeling heavy or greasy. It leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth, and hydrated throughout the day. The absence of fragrance and essential oils is a crucial factor for sensitive skin, and I haven't experienced any irritation or breakouts while using this moisturizer. It complements the cleanser and serum perfectly, completing The Outset’s simple yet effective skincare routine. This moisturizer is a true hydration hero, providing a comforting layer of moisture that lasts all day without clogging pores or causing any sensitivity issues.

After using The Outset’s three-step system for several weeks, I’m genuinely impressed. My skin feels healthier, more hydrated, and significantly less reactive. I love the simplicity of the routine, and I appreciate that the products are specifically formulated with sensitive skin in mind. The fragrance-free formulas are a major advantage, and the focus on botanical hydration is a game-changer for those who, like me, experience sensitivity to hyaluronic acid.

While I initially approached this brand with a healthy dose of skepticism (let’s be honest, celebrity skincare lines haven't always had the best reputation), The Outset has genuinely surprised me. It feels like a well-considered, meticulously formulated skincare line that prioritizes both efficacy and gentleness. It’s not just a celebrity endorsing a product; it feels like a genuine effort to create something truly valuable for people with sensitive skin.

So, if you’re searching for a simple, effective, and sensitive-skin-friendly skincare routine, I highly recommend exploring The Outset. It might just be the celebrity skincare brand that actually delivers on its promises. Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried The Outset and what your thoughts are! And don’t forget to share which celebrity skincare lines you think are just cash grabs! I’m always interested in hearing your opinions.