The Outset is a skincare range that takes shoppers back to basics with hydrating ingredients and gentle formulas to boost skin radiance. How does it fare on blemish-prone skin?
Celebrities have been considered the original influencers but with so many A-listers starting their own beauty brands, putting their faces as brand ambassadors does not make the cut anymore. But some of them are actually getting it right.
Scarlett Johansson’s skincare brand, The Outset, is one of the brands that is developed to treat the actress’ stressed skin and while I didn’t have sensitive skin, I do suffer breakouts, so I was excited to try the Scarlett Johansson’s skincare range, including the Firming Vegan Collagen Prep Serum, Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturiser and Lip Oasis.
Shoppers can get the Prep Serum for £46, Daily Moisturiser for £44 and Lip Oasis for £22. I incorporated the items in my daily morning and night time routine and my skin has improved a lot in terms of clarity and radiance.
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The Black Widow star explained that her products helped calm irritated skin, saying: “For years, I struggle with skin sensitivities that diminished my self confidence and occupied my thoughts. When I quit the harsh products and switched to a gentle, simple, and consistent routine that infused my skin with moisture, my skin barrier began to heal.
“My healthiest skin started when I returned to the basics and nurtured this vital organ, versus trying to ‘fix’ it. I realised the power of a gentle and hydrating approach to skincare, and I wanted to bring this philosophy to the world with The Outset.”
The Vegan Collagen Prep Serum (£46 on Cult Beauty) is my second step to prep my skin for hydration. With the active ingredient Pullulan as the alternative to traditional collagen, it provides a firming effect, promoting a smoother appearance. It also contains Brassica Napus Seedcake Extract, clinically proven to improve the look of hyperpigmentation.
I found the prep serum very soothing and quick to absorb into skin, it definitely did a good job on retaining hydration overnight. It takes time for dark spots, sun spots and acne marks to fade so I have to admit that I haven’t noticed any reduction in hyperpigmentation during my 14-day trial but I always finish my skincare with SPF50. If plumped skin is the main goal to youthful skin, I would recommend Kiehl’s HydroPlumping Re-Texturising Serum Concentrate (now £41.60, was £52), the gel-to-liquid serum delivered a “filler effect” to smooth out lines and I’ve used it in hot 35C country and it didn’t leave a bit of greasy touch.
The Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturiser (£44), is packed with soothing botanical extracts including olive-sourced skincare superhero squalene to reduce the look of redness and improve skin’s texture and tone by fortifying the skin barrier. Also containing avocado oil to nourish skin, two pumps of the cream left my face slightly greasy, so I would advise shoppers to go for one pump instead if you have combination skin like me. Trinny London’s See The Light Moisturiser, £46, is another option but with an added benefit of SPF50
Last but not least, a handy lip balm. The Outset’s Lip Oasis – available in clear and tinted colours like Sun Kiss, Dune and Mirage – is what Scarlett called it as “high shine meets nourishing barrier protection”. The unique applicator reminds me of a mini satellite disc and yet it does make it easier to distribute the product on my pout without leaving any residue.
Shoppers who subscribe to The Outset mailing list and enjoy 20% off discount. Instead of £22, the Lip Oasis is dropped to £17.60. The Lip Oasis delivers a “glass shine” in just one swipe but I need to squeeze hard when I’m half way through the tube.
On the other hand, Laneige’s new Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum, £19, comes with a plush silicone applicator in the shape of a doughnut (yum!). It has six colours with each paired with a doughnut scent.
