7 December 2023
Experts weigh in on the effectiveness of celebrity skincare brands and their ability to transform your skin.
In recent years, the world of celebrity skincare launches has exploded, with everyone from Hailey Bieber to Brad Pitt and Idris Elba jumping on the wrinkle-busting bandwagon. According to Business Insider, as many as 25 celebrities and influencers have launched beauty or skincare products in the last three years. But does having a Grammy or millions of social media followers mean these superstars truly understand the complexities of formulating a skin-transforming serum? We’ve teamed up with skincare experts to find out whether the latest star-powered brands can really give you an A-list complexion.
Fenty by Rihanna:
Rihanna’s Fenty brand has taken the beauty industry by storm, with a reported annual revenue of over £477m. Fenty Skin focuses on smart skincare with a mission to treat, smooth, and tighten the look of pores. The range boasts over 30 products, with notable ingredients such as niacinamide and salicylic acid. The chemists praise Fenty for its accessible price point, solid ingredient lists, and data to support their claims. Dr. Sophie Shotter, an aesthetic doctor, highlights the inclusion of fragrances in some products, which can cause micro-irritation for some individuals. Overall, Fenty offers hard-working formulas that tackle pores and uneven skin tone effectively.
Soul Keys by Alicia Keys:
Soul Keys, founded by Alicia Keys and dermatologist Renée Snyder, aims to forge a connection between mind and skin. The brand encourages a skincare ritual that includes affirmations. The range includes basics with affordable price points and ingredients like niacinamide. The chemists note that working with a dermatologist can help monitor the skin’s reaction to a product, but they also highlight the need for more in-depth knowledge of formulations and ingredients. The inclusion of polypeptides in the Smoothing Facial Exfoliator and hydrating ingredients in the Be Luminous Face Oil are praised by the skin doctor. The beauty journalist appreciates the calming effects of the products, particularly the Be Luminous Exfoliating Powder.
Rhode by Hailey Bieber:
Hailey Bieber’s Rhode range has garnered significant attention, with 100,000 people joining the waiting list for the Peptide Glazing Fluid. The range focuses on hydration and dewy skin. The chemists highlight the expertise of chemist Ron Robinson, who formulates the products. While the inclusion of words like “milk” and “fluid” may confuse consumers, the range’s lightness makes it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. The skin doctor finds the range’s claim of “glazed skin” gimmicky but praises the Glazing Milk for its moisturizing properties. The beauty journalist finds the range hyped but appreciates the Peptide Glazing Fluid and Lip Balm.
Le Domaine by Brad Pitt:
Brad Pitt’s Le Domaine range, developed in partnership with the Perrin family, focuses on antioxidants. The range includes two cleansers, a serum, and creams. The high price point is attributed to the proprietary antioxidant ingredient blend. The chemists express the need for more data and clinical studies to support the range’s efficacy. The skin doctor highlights the benefits of resveratrol, the key ingredient based on grapes, in preventing photo-aging caused by UV damage. The beauty journalist finds the range underwhelming, with the exception of The Cream, which provides noticeable results.
The Outset by Scarlett Johannson:
Scarlett Johannson’s The Outset range aims to address sensitized, problem skin. The range includes fragrance-free products designed for a consistent skincare routine. The chemists appreciate the range’s simplicity and gentle formulas. Consumer perception studies back the range’s efficacy, but the chemists note the need for longer testing periods. Dr. Sophie Shotter questions the firming effects of Pullulan and the efficacy of the trademarked hyaluronic acid alternative, Hyaluroset. The beauty journalist finds the products extremely gentle and nourishing for the skin barrier.
S’Able Labs by Idris and Sabrina Elba:
S’Able Labs, created by Idris and Sabrina Elba, offers melanin-inclusive skincare with a focus on sustainability. The range includes cleansers, a toner, a moisturizer, and a serum. The chemists appreciate the consumer perception tests and clinical studies backing the range. The skin doctor highlights the hydrating and acne-fighting ingredients in the Black Seed Toner and the Baobab Moisturizer. The beauty journalist praises the range’s partnership with suppliers who prioritize biodiversity and social responsibility.
Conclusion:
While celebrity skincare brands have flooded the market, experts have varying opinions on their effectiveness. Rihanna’s Fenty Skin offers solid formulas for pore treatment and uneven skin tone. Alicia Keys’ Soul Keys provides calming and nourishing products. Hailey Bieber’s Rhode range delivers hydration but may not live up to the hype. Brad Pitt’s Le Domaine offers antioxidant-rich products, but more data is needed. Scarlett Johannson’s The Outset provides gentle basics for sensitive skin. Idris and Sabrina Elba’s S’Able Labs focuses on melanin-inclusive skincare with sustainability in mind. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these celebrity skincare brands may vary, and it’s essential for consumers to consider their individual skin needs and preferences.
